For MCPHS Students, #HealthcareStartsHere
Students have been reaching out to show us how they’re staying safe and acting as healthcare role models this semester.
Students come to MCPHS University to learn—and practice—healthcare. Healthcare is who we are, and never has the opportunity to lead by example been greater than during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Already our students are stepping up to the plate. By wearing masks, practicing physical distancing, washing their hands—by doing all the things necessary to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and have a safe and successful Fall 2020 semester—MCPHS students are actively doing the work of healthcare. They know that we can beat this virus and that the better we work together, the sooner things can get back to normal.
Students have been reaching out to show us how they’re staying safe and acting as healthcare role models this semester. We encourage you to do the same by sharing pictures and videos showing how you lead by example during this time; just post your story on social media using the hashtag #HealthcareStartsHere. It could be shots of yourself in your favorite mask, you and your friends practicing physical distancing, a Zoom party screenshot, your extra-clean dorm room or workspace—whatever you want! We encourage you to get creative in showing how you act responsibly.
We want to hear from you, so let’s show the world that #HealthcareStartsHere, at MCPHS University! Use the hashtag on social media, or fill out this form to be featured.
Geena Ciardelli, MPAS 2021
“I think it is a privilege to be on campus, and to make sure we can stay on campus, it is important to follow all of the guidelines...the only way we can beat this pandemic is if everyone complies with the health guidelines to stay safe.
“I have worked firsthand with COVID patients, and unfortunately, I have seen many deaths due to the virus. I want to inform others of why it is so important to follow guidelines because it is much more serious than some believe it to be. I have witnessed suffering patients and grieving families and I do not want that to happen within our MCPHS community.”
Camille Beniga, PharmD 2022
“We each have a duty to ourselves, our loved ones, and our community to try and prevent the spread as much as possible. As we work towards finding a viable vaccine for COVID, we must all be in the mindset that this is a team effort, and no matter how small you may think your part is in ending this pandemic, each and every one of us plays an equally important role.”
Dilinna Enwerekowe, PharmD 2023
“I follow social distancing guidelines because this pandemic is more serious than people think it is. Although I take every precaution to avoid exposing myself, I’m still at risk every day. It is important to acknowledge that we can do things to avoid further spread of this outbreak.
“As a future healthcare leader, it is especially important at this time to educate myself and others who might not understand the severity of the situation we are in. My peers and I can continue to follow the news behind COVID-19. We can help ourselves and others by practicing social distancing, cleaning areas that are in constant use regularly, and so much more... it is up to us to actively participate.
“Wear a mask, carry your hand sanitizer, avoid large gatherings, and continue to educate yourself. Don’t go to that party. Don’t go to that kickback. Do whatever it is you can to keep your health at the most optimum level.”
Rachel Lukose, MPAS 2022
“My family and I had COVID a few months back, and seeing my parents experience respiratory depression, pneumonia, and an increased amount of coughing while I remained asymptomatic made me feel helpless. I wouldn't want anyone to go through that experience, which is why I wear a mask and refuse to travel in order to stop the spread of COVID-19. A lot of people believe it is not that serious, and I want to spread the word about the severity of this virus.
Being a healthcare leader doesn't just mean to treat/diagnose patients and prescribe medication. It also means learning more about the changes in healthcare and advocating/teaching about it to those who may not have access to that information. As a soon-to-be PA, it is important that I learn about this and project the safety precautions that will help protect me from this virus. This pandemic is a reality, but working together as a community will help bring it to an end.”
Hayley Bui, Doctor of Optometry 2022
“At home I lived with high-risk family members. I want to do my part and keep them healthy and safe. I’m hoping by social distancing and wearing a mask we can lower the curve and my family members can go outside and enjoy their lives again. One way I’ve been able to keep in touch with others is doing Zoom workout classes. I loved going to workout classes, so this is a great way to stay healthy and keep in touch with other people.
“I want to be a good example for people when it comes to their health. We can make a difference by following all CDC guidelines and being that example to encourage others to do the same.”
Bryhanna Charles, MPAS 2021
"By following the proper COVID-19 CDC health guidelines, I can do my part to ensure that the numbers of infected persons stay low. By protecting myself, I am protecting others, and that’s the most altruistic thing I can do... . My peers and I can use our knowledge of preventative medicine to educate our families, friends, and future patients to make mindful choices as they, too, observe public health guidelines.”
Rojean J. Behbahan, PharmD 2022
“I follow safe practices to protect those around me. Not doing so could compromise the health of the elderly, those who are immunocompromised, and others.
“It is important to me to be a healthcare leader because with the examples I set, I can help protect my community... . As future pharmacists we promised in our Pharmacist's Oath 'to apply our knowledge, experience, and skills to the best of our ability to assure optimal outcomes for our patients,' and so it is our duty to fulfill our vows.”
Victoria Thong, B.S. Dental Hygiene 2020
“I follow the [health and safety] guidelines because you never know where people have been and what they have. By doing this, not only do I protect myself and my loved ones who are older and immunocompromised, but also anybody around me. I want to reduce anyone and everyone’s risk.
“It is important for me to be a healthcare leader because I understand the value of my voice… . My peers and I can make a difference by discussing and educating others about the importance of wearing a mask and washing hands.”
Melissa Rutherford, DPT 2021
"I want to do my share of being part of the solution. I'm also a firm believer that with a little bit of effort and creativity, you are still able to have a fun time and make memories while maintaining social distancing and wearing a mask.
“It is important to me because I want to be a part of the process and to help create teams that can work together to accomplish large tasks. I believe that my peers and I can make a difference during this pandemic by leading by example and encouraging those around us to help be a part of the solution. I believe we all went into healthcare to help others, and this is a prime opportunity to show that.”