This school year, Molloy introduced its new Pre-Med Career Club! Moderated by Mrs. Tamanna Akter, the club was created by Carly Meir ‘24 to introduce students to the idea of following a pre-med track in college. Ms. Akter shares, “My biggest goal is to provide students with the resources they need to learn about being pre-med, and the understanding of the different areas they could pursue. The club is not to exactly encourage students to follow a pre-med track, but rather see if it's something they would want to do in the first place.” The club plans to invite alumni to serve as guest speakers during club meetings to share information with students about the application process and the route to becoming someone in the medical field. The leaders of the club - Carly, Thomas Dibello ‘23, and Carolina Rodriguez ‘24 - have taken on the responsibility of finding opportunities for club members.
According to Mrs. Akter, the Pre-Med Career Club teaches Stanners networking skills. Having professionals present to the club allows for students to make connections, gain insight into the day-to-day life of someone in the medical field, and establish contacts that will offer guidance and advice when needed. So far, the club has hosted two medical professionals: Ms. Maria Gallagher, Molloy’s very own School Nurse, and Dr. Fidel Valea ‘77, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Northwell Health. Carly shares, “Nurse Gallagher is responsible for everyone in our building: over 1500 students and over 100 faculty. I never really took that into account, and after hearing her talk I am much more appreciative of her hard work.” Carly said of Dr. Valea, “He gave students important insight on what it takes to be a doctor, and how time consuming it could be, but although it is a lot of work, it truly pays off in the end.”
Carly enjoys being a leader of the Pre-Med Career Club because it allows her to “be a voice for [her] fellow students, and be able to organize meetings and opportunities for club members who are just as excited as [she is].” When asked how she thinks the club can grow, she mentioned working closely with Molloy’s alumni center to engage more of those working in medical professions, as well as offering classes for certifications in CPR/AED and first aid. The club is also looking to find internships, field trips, and volunteering opportunities for club members. The ultimate goal is to show students the variety of career paths available to someone who is interested in medicine. We can’t wait to see what else the club has in store!