Alison Leiva ’27: Pediatric Associates of Brockton
As someone who has a passion for medicine and working with kids, my six-week internship at the Pediatric Associates of Brockton was an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the busy routine of a pediatrician’s office. I also took a deep dive into how the systems of the body work by learning how different drugs target certain conditions.
I shadowed Dr. David Chung, and I was incredibly inspired by the care and attention he gives to each patient and how he is able to make a diagnosis based on patient history, physical examinations, and labs.
Each day, I attended visits with patients ranging from a few days old to 22 years old. I assisted with physical exams by listening to the patient’s lungs and heart as well as examining their eyes, ears, and mouth.
Independently, I conducted research on the glymphatic system, which is the waste clearance system of the brain that is primarily active during sleep. Dr. Chung used this research to explain to his patients the importance of shutting off screens before bed to improve sleep quality and brain health. This experience gave me a chance to reflect on my own lifestyle and inspired me to implement more healthy habits into my daily routine.
After witnessing the incredible impact Dr. Chung had on his patient’s lives and the way he incorporated his business and teaching skills into his job, I became more inclined to pursue becoming a doctor.
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