February 21, 2025

According to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, only three percent of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are Black or African American. Sophomore undergraduate nursing student Mercedes McCall’s long-term goal is to join those numbers.

“I’ve had some procedures as a kid, and I’ve never seen anyone who looked like me. It’s important to see people that look like you to help comfort you through tough times. There’s also not a lot of Black nurse anesthetists, and I want to be a part of those growing numbers,” McCall noted.

Nurse anesthetists are advanced practice nurses responsible for providing pain medication (anesthesia) care for patients. The road to becoming a nurse anesthetist is especially grueling—with years of experience and certifications needed for the position. Though the profession now requires a doctoral degree, her foundation begins with completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Drexel.

“I knew I wanted to be challenged. I based my [collegiate] decision on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) scores. That was a big deal for me. Out of all the schools I applied to, Drexel had the highest NCLEX scores [for post-grads]. I knew this was the place for me,” McCall said confidently.

While still early in her nursing career, the Philadelphia native explained that part of her interest in nursing stems from her love of learning. “I’ve always loved science. I really enjoyed taking anatomy and physiology and really understanding why things happen. I enjoy learning about the body and the best ways to care for patients. It keeps me going,” McCall articulated.

McCall’s passion and motivations for nursing are deeply rooted. Her experiences navigating the health care system with a sick parent inspired her to act as a catalyst for change as a health care provider.

“I had a sick parent growing up, and I noticed a lot of disparities in the health care system. A lot of doctors and nurses held a bias against my dad. At the time, my dad was overweight, so some [nurses and doctors] weren’t always nice to him, and I really recognized the role that my mom played as an advocate for his care,” she recalled. “Without her, he would not have received the care he deserved. I realized that I want to be able to help people and be an advocate for people who don’t always have someone in their corner,” McCall says.

She also underscored the importance of having providers that resemble the community they work with.

“My dad was in and out of health care facilities for about a year, and in that time, I don’t think he ever had a Black doctor or nurse. I think it is really important for patients to see someone who looks like them. When patients do [see someone who looks like them], they become more receptive and comfortable. It makes a very big difference,” McCall said.

She notes that her support system—both at Drexel and at home---allows her to continue the journey to becoming a nurse anesthetist.

“I made some amazing friends [at Drexel], and most of them are nursing majors,” she said. “It makes it easier to understand the struggles and stress of being a nursing student.”

McCall cites her mom as her role model and her biggest cheerleader.

“She encourages me to be the best I can be. If I’m ever feeling defeated or doubtful, I know I can call her and she always says, ‘you know you can do it, you know you’re more than capable.’ She gives me that extra boost I need," she said.

As she continues her journey, she looks forward to completing her first co-op experience. McCall hopes to gain a position in an anesthesia unit where she can explore career opportunities and get a taste of what it’s like to become a CRNA.

By Myleah Herbert, marketing '25