Biochemistry and molecular biology major interns with Wooster Community Hospital through health coach program to address community health issues 

Through an APEX Fellowship, Miette Jankowski ’26, a biochemistry & molecular biology (BCMB) major, had the opportunity to intern with the Wooster Community Hospital as a health coach the summer of her senior year. Jankowski interacted with patients while refining her skills in communication and critical thinking. She developed a solid understanding of common health-related issues in the community of Wooster. She hopes to use her refined patient care skills throughout her career as a physician.  

“What interests me the most about my work is how each patient is unique. It is this quality that shapes how effectively a patient succeeds with their plan of care.”
— Jankowski ’26 

FINDING OPPORTUNITIES 

Jankowski: Because I was already a Health Coach in the Community Care Network, I knew about the opportunity to continue working in this position over the summer. I decided to apply for this summer position because I wanted to improve my patient interaction skills and develop a solid understanding of common health-related issues in the community. 

LESSONS LEARNED 

Jankowski: This internship has strengthened my patient interaction skills, deepened my appreciation for the profession, and affirmed my commitment to helping others. 

GUIDANCE FOR GROWTH 

Jankowski: My APEX fellowship mentor was Jamie Adler, the pre-health advisor. Jamie would provide thought-provoking questions for me to consider each week as I began my fellowship, which helped me think more critically, emotionally, and efficiently when working with patients. 

EXPANDED PERSPECTIVE 

Jankowski: Working with patients who have different diagnoses and medications gave me insight into the important connections between human body systems. This experience also confirmed my decision to pursue a career in the medical field. What interests me the most about my work is how each patient is unique. Every person comes from a different background and set of life experiences that contribute to their perspectives on healthcare. It is this quality that shapes how effectively a patient succeeds with their plan of care. 

Posted in Experiential Learning on August 6, 2025.