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