Zayna Gilani ’27: Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute
Growing up in a cancer-prone family and hearing about the many ways cancer affects patients and their families sparked my interest in cancer detection and research. This summer, I interned as an observer at the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, rotating through Emerson Hospital and the Waltham and Boston locations under the guidance of Judie Panagiotopoulous, executive administrator of oncology surgical services.
During my internship, I observed administrative staff managing patient intake, maintaining records, and implementing new software such as EPIC. I tasked myself with finding a problem and then offering solutions. I also researched barriers to cancer screening utilization and prepared a report proposing ways to improve access to early detection.
I also shadowed breast oncologist Dr. Laura Springs and hematologist Dr. Jim Weitzman, gaining insight into patient care and the daily responsibilities of physicians. A highlight of my experience was being invited by Dr. Motaz Qadan, surgeon-in-chief of the MGH Cancer Institute, to observe a live pancreatic cancer surgery. This experience deepened my understanding of the medical profession and its challenges and rewards, and it strengthened my desire to pursue a future in medicine and cancer care.
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