Name: Emma Keane
Class Year: 2022
Organization Name: Mass General Brigham
Title: Clinical Research Coordinator
In one sentence, what does your job entail?
I conduct research and deliver psychosocial and behavioral health interventions to cancer patients navigating complex treatment regimens and survivorship challenges, as well as to their caregivers, with the goal of improving health outcomes and enhancing quality of life.
What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?
I really enjoyed my psychopathology course at Holy Cross, where many discussions with Professor Berman about career opportunities in the field sparked my interest in pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Concurrently, I worked in an undergraduate research lab and became very interested in expanding my methodological tools and research skills. After graduation, I spent a year on a Fulbright scholarship working in an international research lab studying well-being in the workplace. This experience sparked my interest in applying this work to the health sector, particularly in studying ways to enhance the quality of life for patients with chronic illnesses, so I began searching for Clinical Research Coordinator positions at academic medical centers.
What were you involved in when you were on campus?
During my time on campus, I worked with the Office of Admission as a tour guide and Senior Admissions Fellow. With the Student Programs for Urban Development, I mentored and tutored young girls and served as a Community Organizer, collaborating with Worcester government leaders to promote systemic change and civic engagement. I participated in Spring Break Immersion and had the opportunity to lead a trip during my senior year. I also enjoyed participating in Club Basketball.
What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?
I double-majored in Psychology and German Studies and was motivated throughout my time at Holy Cross to pursue a Fulbright Scholarship to further explore the synergy between both fields. During my time in Germany, I taught English and worked in an international research lab studying well-being in the workplace. This further inspired me to gain research experience in Health Psychology and Psycho-Oncology before pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology.
What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?
One of the most important skills I developed at Holy Cross was a strong sense of intrinsic motivation. I learned to pay attention to the activities and courses that provided inherent satisfaction and enjoyment. By consistently approaching each opportunity through this lens, I was able to identify a field of work that I love. This sense of satisfaction now serves as the core motivation behind my work, guiding my professional trajectory.
What advice do you have for students on campus today?
A cornerstone of a Holy Cross education is the guidance and mentorship provided by supportive professors and faculty members. They are committed to leveraging their expertise to help students navigate their interests and passions. I recommend getting to know your professors well and taking full advantage of their office hours. You may be just one conversation away from discovering your next chapter and securing a stellar letter of recommendation.