Darya Ameri, NUR ’24, Edgewater, NJ
This summer, I had the privilege of working at a hospital that has driven my career goals from a very young age, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. I not only learned a great deal about the complexities of cancer and patient care but also fostered unique and close relationships with the staff, other interns of my program, and each one of my patients.
As a nursing student accepted in MSK’s Clinical Assistant Program, I worked closely alongside an exceptional nurse whose unwavering dedication and compassionate care left a lasting impression on me. Throughout my time with her, I was captivated by her ability to seamlessly blend clinical expertise with genuine empathy. As we navigated the intricacies of patient care, she imparted invaluable lessons on the significance of active listening, clear communication, and the art of
providing holistic support to patients and their families. Through her guidance, I not only learned and practiced hands-on nursing skills unique to cancer care but also gained key insights into forming genuine human connections with patients while being a support system for them and their families. Witnessing her tireless commitment to alleviating suffering and promoting healing has not only deepened my admiration for the nursing profession but has also instilled in me a commitment to channeling empathy and skill into making a meaningful difference.
Another remarkable aspect of my internship was the seamless integration of cutting-edge research and compassionate patient care. Engaging with the brilliant minds at MSKCC, I was immersed in groundbreaking research and critical thinking aimed at unraveling the mysteries of cancer biology and developing novel treatment modalities. Whether it was observing robotic surgeries in the operating room or participating in patient support initiatives, every experience reiterated the institution’s holistic approach to combating cancer. Witnessing the tireless efforts of researchers, clinicians, and support staff working to uplift patients’ spirits while advancing medical knowledge was both humbling and inspiring.
Overall, my internship at MSK has left a great mark on both my personal life and career path. This immersive experience has enriched my understanding of the multifaceted battle against cancer, highlighting the importance of collaborative research, patient-centric care, and the boundless potential of human empathy. I am incredibly grateful for the program but also for the opportunity to spend my summer in NYC and embark on this great experience. Thank you Career Services!
This is part of a series of posts by recipients of the 2023 Career Services Summer Funding Grant. We’ve asked funding recipients to reflect on their summer experiences and talk about the industries in which they spent their summer. You can read the entire series here
