Like so many students here, my answer to “Why Northeastern?” was simple: co-op. How could I pass up the opportunity to gain real-world experience before even graduating? This was especially true as a student in Explore, when I had no idea what I wanted to major in—let alone what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Choosing a path at 18 was daunting, but knowing that I could get a glimpse at any profession before committing to one was incredibly reassuring. Even starting Northeastern as a declared major, co-op has so much to offer and can teach you so much.
My first co-op at Beth Israel was my introduction into the healthcare field. I had never touched an IV pole before, much less, taken out an IV. That first day was intimidating; all the movement and alarms overwhelmed me within 15 minutes. Yet, that co-op ultimately showed me that medicine was a perfect fit for me. The job was not glamorous and I barely got to introduce myself to the doctors and physician assistants, but I enjoyed my time and found meaning in my work on the med-surg floor. I learned to appreciate the night and weekend shifts, when patients were asleep and nurses could relax. I learned random facts about urology, gynecology, and orthopedics and discovered ways to MacGyver solutions to patients’ unique needs. Most importantly, I loved the interactions with patients, no matter how brief. There is raw honesty in the conversations with my patients that I found refreshing. And being part of someone’s recovery was always both heartwarming and inspiring, solidifying my desire to pursue a career in healthcare.
My second co-op at Massachusetts Eye and Ear expanded this desire. As an ophthalmic technician in the outpatient retina service, I worked with other technicians and fellow co-ops to prepare patients to see the fellows and attending doctors. I shadowed in the operating room to watch a retinal detachment repair and assisted with intravitreal injections. With greater responsibility and more medical interaction than in my first co-op, I was able to better visualize myself as a future physician assistant. This experience also allowed me to compare inpatient and outpatient services, furthering my understanding of different healthcare environments and evaluating which best suited me. Additionally, it also was an amazing opportunity to build relationships with the doctors, who loved to share their experiences in medical school and silly
anecdotes. Their advice and memories made my future plans feel much more attainable.
Starting college and having to choose a major that shapes your future is daunting, but like with Explore, co-op allows you to consider different professions and gain confidence in your choice before graduation. My two co-ops let me explore avenues of healthcare, gain hands-on experience, and develop confidence in my career path. They gave me a taste of what life as a physician assistant could look like and I cannot wait to embark on that adventure post-graduation. Both experiences were unforgettable learning experiences and I know if you take full advantage of your co-op, it will be the same memorable journey for you!