Student participates in research program at NYU Langone

Adithya Sreenivas is a second-year College of Medicine student from Cleveland. He completed a summer research experience in New York University Langone Pediatrics Department. He recently shared his experience with The Pulse.

Can you describe your summer experience?

This past summer, I participated in the NYU Langone Pediatrics Summer Program for Medical Students. I was assigned an endocrinologist as my research mentor, and I contributed to a study on diabetes titled “Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms (PTSS) in Patients with Diabetes and their Caregivers.” When patients opted into the study, they completed various surveys (One for the patient and three for the parent/caregiver) and the data collected from them, combined with a chart review, illuminated the prevalence of PTSS, mental health utilization and the impact of patient and parent /caregiver’s PTSS on diabetes management at the NYU Pediatrics Diabetes Center. In addition to the research study, I was able to shadow my mentor and other members of the endocrinology team.

What did you learn from this experience and how will it impact your career?

I learned in-depth details regarding conducting clinical research, performing a chart review and independently forming a research question from a larger study. Exposure to diabetes management and endocrinology specialists strengthened my understanding of the field and pediatrics in general. I was able to interact with several members of the care teams including a pediatric endocrinologist, residents, fellows, social workers and nurses.

I am interested in both pediatrics and internal medicine specialties, so this internship allowed me to learn more about some of my top interests at this time. 

How did you find and obtain this experience?

I looked at the summer opportunities page in the Medicine Career Center on Canvas. I applied to five programs related to my area of interest and was awarded this one.

Do you have any advice for students interested in something similar?

Don’t be afraid to reach out to different individuals and explore various opportunities. Every experience is something new that helps you learn more about medicine. At the end, you will end up meeting great people and making new connections. 

Students: Share your experiences!

Have you participated in a research study? Earned a scholarship or award from a professional organization? Published in a journal? Share your accomplishments with The Pulse! Submit online or via email.