Scott Harrison: Making a Positive Impact Through Student Health Services

Scott Harrison, a Family Nurse Practitioner program student, says his experience with community health nurses inspired him to pursue a career in nursing.

His journey into nursing was not straightforward. Despite initially focusing on medicine, life took him on a different path after earning his Bachelor of Science in biochemistry.

Scott worked as an Environmental Manager of the Water Operations Programs with the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach. While there, he served as the primary contact of the FDOH PBC contingent of the Region 7 strike team and inspected childcare centers and family day cares, which meant he often worked with community health Nurses who helped him choose his path forward.

Currently serving as a nurse at the Florida Atlantic Student Health Services clinic, Scott is eager to make a difference. “I would love to continue working with the patients at the clinic,” he said. “It is a very satisfying job, and we, as nurses, are able to contribute significantly to the students’ academic success by ensuring a healthy mind and body.”

Scott counts Angela Mazzei, APRN, his direct supervisor, and Alison Schwartz, MD, the Chief Medical Officer of Student Health Services, as his mentors. “They were instrumental in my application to the FNP program, but the truth is all of my nursing colleagues have mentored me in one form or another,” he said.

With a robust educational background, including a Bachelor of Science (BS), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his nursing practice.

Despite his busy schedule juggling full-time work, academic studies, and caregiving responsibilities for his mother-in-law, Scott remains open to future volunteer opportunities in the community, recognizing the importance of giving back and making a positive impact beyond the classroom.

After graduating in 2026, Scott plans to explore Advanced Practice Registered Nurse residencies with a goal of expanding his skillsets and knowledge.

With his unwavering dedication and compassionate nature, Scott is poised to embark on a journey in nursing that will leave a lasting impact on the lives of those he serves.