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On the Job in January
Luther College Alumni Magazine
Megan Schmeisser '12
Luther College Biology Major, School of Environmental Studies Alumni 2008
Prior to this January I hadn’t given much thought to my voice, except maybe when I lost it. I just open my mouth and there it is. For many of the patients I observed this January, speaking was not the effortless act I am accustomed to. This January I had the outstanding opportunity to shadow the Oncology department of Otolyngology /Head and Neck Surgery at Chicago Medical Center. I observed a Cancer Care-team, at its finest, working from the first signs of disease through operating room, recovery and life-long post-operative care. I spent about half my time in Chicago wearing scrubs standing in the Operating Room watching a variety of procedures including layrngectomies, esophageal dilalations, neck dissections and parotid gland removals. (If all the scientific jargon just went over your head, it almost exactly translates to “really cool stuff” in the language of a Bio major). My favorite part of the experience, however, was the clinic. It didn’t have all the glitz and glam of a Grey’s Anatomy style OR, but I loved the patient connections. I was able to learn about their diagnosis, symptoms and other medical facts but also about their grandchildren, hobbies and passions. The doctors and support staff exemplified how to treat patients with a level head and a warm heart to give them the best quality care. Although my career plans are still a little fuzzy, I hope that I will be able to bring the same level of compassion and expertise to whatever healthcare position is in my future. I feel truly privileged to have work with Dr. Stenson and her team this January.