We recently had the opportunity to catch up with a former resident named Quinshell and are excited to share an update about this remarkable young woman.
We are touched that, despite the trauma that brought her into our care, Quinshell is grateful for the experience she had at Methodist Family Health. She shares: “My fondest memories were warm and cozy evenings spent sharing family-style dinners together. We all gathered around the table, laughing and chatting, sharing stories about our day at school, supporting one another and enjoying each other’s company. It felt like a big, loving family. This memory stands out because it showcased the group home’s emphasis on community, connection and family values, making Methodist Family Health feel like a true home.”
Today, Quinshell is a postdoctoral fellow at UAMS, and although she already has a Ph.D. in science, she is studying for the MCAT in preparation to apply to medical school. Quinshell’s master’s thesis examined the applications of hot water-treated aluminum foil in food packaging, and she investigated ways to enhance the antibacterial properties of aluminum in her doctoral dissertation. She has transitioned into neuroscience studying postmortem brains and hopes to explore the impact of substance exposure on the brain throughout life.
Quinshell credits the nurturing environment and transformative lessons she learned while at Methodist Family Health for shaping her into a compassionate, resilient and driven individual. She adds that she learned many skills that paved the way for her future: “Resilience, adaptability and empathy were forged by overcoming challenges and witnessing supportive caregivers. Self-advocacy skills enabled me to confidently express my needs and boundaries. Teamwork and collaboration were vital in the group home, which has influenced my ability to work effectively with research teams. Time management, organization and personal responsibility were honed through balancing daily tasks. Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills were developed by navigating group dynamics. Leadership and mentoring roles emerged, fostering confidence and empathy.”
Reflective on the past and looking forward to the future, Quinshell says, “My experience instilled gratitude for supportive relationships and fueled my passion for neuroscience.”
