Student works with Summa Health to improve stroke patient functions
Jonas St. Fleur is a second-year College of Medicine student from Boston, Massachusetts. He completed a summer research experience at Summa Health. He shared his reflections on the experience with The Pulse.
Can you describe your summer experience?
I'm currently working with Marvin Rossi, M.D., Ph.D., at Summa Health in their award-winning Stroke Center. Dr. Rossi’s team is using hand grip robotic rehabilitation devices combined with telemedicine to improve hand function in stroke patients. The goal is to identify technologies in stroke rehabilitation to enhance patient outcomes faster. This will set the stage for future studies and targeted treatment personalized for stroke patients suffering from severe neurological deficits.
What did you learn from this experience and how will it impact your career?
Even though our research is still in its early development phase, our patients are highly motivated and supportive of the project. This has shown me that there is a great deal that can be done to help patients even before finishing medical school. It has reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in neurology, with a focus on developing innovative rehabilitation techniques to improve patient quality of life.
How did you find and obtain this experience?
I was initially paired with a mentor through NEOMED Connect, which matches students with experts in their field of interest. When my first mentor had to relocate to another medical facility, I was quickly reassigned to work with Dr. Rossi. Having NEOMED Connect as a resource was invaluable, as finding mentors in a specialized field like neurology can be challenging without such assistance.
Do you have any advice for students interested in something similar?
Avoid engaging in activities simply to check a box. Instead, pursue projects that genuinely interest you. This authentic engagement will make the entire process more enjoyable and fulfilling. You’ll be able to contribute meaningfully to your field of interest, and when you are passionate about your work, it will be reflected in the quality of your contributions. At the end of the day, you will take pride in the impact you have made.
Anything else you would like to add?
One of our patients has a relative who is a caregiver, and witnessing their journey through the challenges of recovery reminded me of the struggles my own family faced when tragedy struck. This relative reached out to express that my efforts were inspiring them and giving them hope for a better future. In truth, I am equally inspired and motivated by their resilience and dedication. This experience has highlighted the importance of finding your genuine interests and being prepared to be inspired by those around you. Building on my previous point, discover your genuine interests and remain open to inspiration from those around you as you progress on your journey.
SHARE YOUR SUMMER EXPERIENCE
Did you have summer research experience? Share it with the Pulse! Send your reflection with a photo to thepulse@neomed.edu or submit online.