Lily Simpson-Heavey, COL ’26, Southampton, NY
This summer, I had the privilege of embarking on a transformative journey at the renowned Cleveland Clinic, delving into the intricate world of cancer therapy research. As part of a Phase 1 Clinical Trial, my internship focused on studying the insertion locus of manufactured Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs) for CAR T cell therapy in patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). This experience not only deepened my understanding of cutting-edge medical interventions but also reaffirmed my passion for healthcare and solidified my aspirations to attend medical school.
The Cleveland Clinic served as the ideal backdrop for this immersive experience, renowned for its commitment to excellence in patient care and groundbreaking research. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors, I embarked on a journey of discovery, seeking to unravel the mysteries surrounding CAR T cell therapy and its potential to revolutionize cancer treatment.
Central to our research was the exploration of the insertion locus of CARs—a critical determinant of therapeutic efficacy and safety. Through a combination of literature reviews, laboratory experiments, and data analysis, I gained insight into the intricate mechanisms underlying cellular immunotherapy. From dissecting genetic sequences to elucidating signaling pathways, every aspect of our research shed light on the complexities of cancer biology and the promise of targeted therapies.
However, the realization of this invaluable experience would not have been possible without the support of the Career Services grant. As a beacon of opportunity for aspiring scholars, the grant provided the financial assistance necessary to pursue this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It alleviated the burden of financial constraints, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my research and professional development without compromise.
Moreover, the impact of this internship extends far beyond the confines of the laboratory. It has fundamentally shaped my aspirations and ignited a passion for scientific inquiry that I never knew existed. Witnessing the profound impact of CAR T cell therapy on the lives of CLL patients has reaffirmed my commitment to a career in medicine and inspired me to dedicate myself to the pursuit of innovative solutions to healthcare challenges.
As I reflect on my time at the Cleveland Clinic, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and awe. Each day presented new challenges and revelations, pushing the boundaries of my understanding and fueling my determination to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Looking ahead, I am filled with excitement and anticipation as I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my journey—medical school. Armed with the knowledge and experiences gained during this internship, I am eager to apply the lessons learned and continue pushing the boundaries of medical science in service of humanity.
In conclusion, my summer internship at the Cleveland Clinic has been nothing short of a revelation—a journey of discovery, growth, and inspiration. I am immensely grateful for the support of the Career Services grant, which made this experience possible, and I am confident that the profound impacts of this internship will shape my future endeavors in medicine and beyond.
This is part of a series of posts by recipients of the 2024 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
