Meet Jenna Marinis ’18 Research Analyst/ Clinical Observer at NYU Winthrop Hospital
Tell us about where you are interning and the kind of work you are doing.
This summer I interned as a clinical observer/ research analyst at NYU Winthrop Hospital. Throughout the summer I was able to experience a number of different medical disciplines from working in a office setting conducting research to watching open heart surgery. Towards the end of the summer I was able to begin my own research project analyzing patient anxiety levels in relation to certain prostate cancer treatments, which gave me the opportunity to experience the process of publishing an academic paper. Days when I was observing in the hospital consisted of shadowing doctors and physician assistants in a number of different fields, getting a front row seat to a day in the life of a medical professional.
Give us an example of how you have applied your academic learnings to your internship?
Holy Cross has provided me with a well rounded education which helped me adapt to the different environments that I was exposed to throughout the summer. Whether it was critical thinking skills in the research setting, or care, compassion, and understanding in the hospital, the education provided to me by Holy Cross has prepared me to succeed in any professional setting.
What has surprised you about being an intern?
At first interning seemed intimidating, but I was surprised to find how normal it was to sometimes be confused and to ask questions. Everyone turned out to be completely understanding and more than willing to help me whenever I needed it.
How did this experience influence or connect to your future career plans / goals?
Being a pre-medical student at Holy Cross consists of strictly classroom prerequisites, which can sometimes cause you to lose sight of why you are doing what you’re doing in the first place. This internship has allowed me to realize why I am putting in the work that I am in the classroom and has motivated me to keep working hard in order to eventually achieve my goal of one day becoming a medical professional. I am extremely thankful to career services as well as the Holy Cross Alumni who set up this opportunity because it has truly opened my eyes to all that is possible in my future.
Any internship advice to pass on to other Holy Cross students?
Ask, ask, and ask again. Interning is all about what you make of it. You can spend your time sitting in the background, and being confused or you can ask questions and be involved. Don’t be intimidated, everyone is for the most part understanding of your situation and that you may need some help sometimes. Work hard and be sure to go the extra mile, because you never know who may be watching. Interning is an extremely special opportunity, be sure make the most out of it!
