On Aug. 20, nearly a year ago, an opportunity was given to 150 students across the state of Connecticut. Luckily, I am one of the student residents of New London affforded an opportunity by Quinnipiac University to help educate the public about the COVID-19 vaccine.

A full week of training via Zoom included an in-person experience for a total of five weeks. The main purpose of our mission is to help put at ease the hesitancy in our community to be vaccinated. All students are divided into small groups around the state alongside the Connecticut Department of Public Health ambassadors.

It’s an honorable experience to use our bilingual and other skills to assist our Hispanic community. Students returning to school and colleges across the state raise many concerns for those ages 18-25. The Connecticut Department of Public Health is available to help answer questions at various sites such as Walmart, with the unvaccinated on their first dose receiving a $20 Walmart gift card.

Quinnipiac University is the foundation of the 2021 summer program. Undergraduate college students across the state are making a difference in our communities in promoting vaccination. Hispanic and African American communities are at a higher risk to spread COVID-19 to others if not informed promptly. The state of Connecticut will become stronger each day with the involvement and support of our multicultural community.

Aicha Santos is a public health intern from Mitchell College in New London.