From first-gen to all-in: Georgia Southern honors student conquers research, leadership and the path to medicine

Georgia native William (Xander) Russell chose Georgia Southern University for two reasons: scholarship and friendship.

Russell, a first-generation student, was awarded a full-ride scholarship through the Honors College, allowing him to pursue his dream of one day entering the medical field without the stress of debt. Knowing he’d have a built-in community through his two best friends, who had also committed to Georgia Southern, made the decision even easier.

“It was the perfect storm in deciding where I should go,” Russell said. “Having the full cost of my tuition covered was a major deciding factor. During my time in the Honors College, faculty mentors, student organizations and campus programs helped create an environment where I felt challenged, supported and encouraged to grow into the person I am today.”

In his sophomore year, Russell became an inaugural Goel Scholar through the Honors College. His on-campus support network was an integral part of his success as a student and this scholarship provided an opportunity to become a leader for other students.

“My experience at Southern was shaped by an incredible support system of mentors, faculty, staff, peers and friends,” Russell said. “I had moments where I doubted whether I truly belonged in certain academic or professional spaces. However, these challenges ultimately became some of the most transformative parts of my experience because they taught me resilience, adaptability and the importance of seeking mentorship and community support. Becoming a part of this cohort truly bridged my relationships, allowing me to be both a mentee and mentor, passing on knowledge about university life to others.”

A key supporter for Russell was his honors research mentor Rocío Pérez, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry in the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics.

“Dr. Pérez invested in my growth as both a researcher and student from very early on, allowing me to develop my thesis, present research at conferences, and grow tremendously as a scientist,” Russell said. “Presenting my research at conferences showed me that the work I had spent years developing could contribute to larger scientific conversations and collaborations.”

While research was a core focus of his academic experience, Russell didn’t limit himself to the lab or the classroom.

“Coming into college as a first-generation student, I knew I wanted to fully take advantage of every opportunity available to me because I did not always know what pathways or experiences existed unless I actively sought them out,” Russell said. “Getting involved helped me build confidence, friendships, mentorships and a sense of belonging very early on in my college career.”

From serving as development chair for the Honors Student Organization to founding Resourceful Ambassadors of Medicine, completing the Sustainable Leadership Certificate, earning $75,000 in grants for Sustain Southern, and more, Russell was determined to experience every opportunity for growth that Georgia Southern had to offer.

“Research taught me persistence and analytical thinking, sustainability work taught me advocacy and systems thinking, and student organizations taught me how to collaborate and support others effectively,” Russell said. “I learned how interconnected different disciplines and communities can be. More than anything, involvement transformed Georgia Southern from simply being the university I attended into a community that genuinely felt like home.”

Having now graduated with his bachelor’s in biochemistry and a minor in social science and medicine, Russell will continue working toward advanced medical degrees with the goal of becoming a physician-scientist.

“At Georgia Southern, I learned how to believe in my own potential,” Russell said. “I aim to continue contributing to research that improves patient outcomes while also practicing medicine in a way that emphasizes empathy, accessibility and advocacy for underserved communities. Ultimately, I want my career to combine scientific innovation with patient-centered health care so that I can contribute both in the laboratory and directly within clinical settings.”

He encourages future Eagles to make the most of their time at Georgia Southern, too.

“Don’t be afraid to take up space and pursue opportunities even if you initially feel underqualified or intimidated,” Russell said. “College moves much faster than people realize, so allowing yourself to explore different interests and take chances is incredibly important. As a first-generation student, I came into college uncertain about where I would fit, but I am leaving with lifelong mentors, friendships, leadership experiences, research accomplishments and confidence in my future goals.”