Jennifer Chen ’24, Health Science, ’25 Medical Dosimetry
Jennifer Chen is a 2024 summa cum laude graduate of the health science major. She is currently enrolled in the medical dosimetry certificate program through the Mount Sinai Center for Radiation Sciences Education at Stony Brook University, a partnership between Mount Sinai Health System's Department of Radiation Oncology and the Stony Brook School of Health Professions. Jennifer is a recent recipient of the Siemens Healthineers scholarship, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists scholarship, and author of Smart Scheduling: A Pilot Project of Workforce Scheduling in Radiation Oncology, in the Journal of Scientific Innovation in Medicine.
Being part of the medical dosimetry certificate program has been a privilege for Jennifer and she is grateful for the support and guidance she has received from the health science faculty in the School of Health Professions. From a young age, she has held a fascination for human biology and physics and as she grew older, Jennifer sought different ways to channel her passion into a field where she could make a meaningful impact. When she enrolled at Stony Brook University, she explored many career paths, and ultimately enrolled in the health science major. After working at a summer camp specialized for children with cancer, she realized what she wanted to do for the rest of her life--her experience over those three months solidified her decision to focus on oncology.
Since enrolling in the certificate program, she has enjoyed every aspect of her education. The hands-on experience she has gained as a student in the program is truly unique. On a day-to-day basis, Jennifer has the opportunity to plan radiation treatment plans for real patients. While challenging, the experience has been incredibly fulfilling, and she is driven to learn and refine her skills.
Upon completion of her clinical year, Jennifer intends to specialize in proton therapy. Proton therapy is especially beneficial for pediatric patients and those who have previously undergone radiation therapy. Her exposure to the resilience of children affected by cancer has shaped Jennifer’s commitment to the pediatric oncology field. She is dedicated to improving treatment outcomes for children with cancer through both curating their treatment plans and contributing to innovative research in pediatric radiation oncology. The field of radiation oncology is exponentially evolving, particularly with the advancements in artificial intelligence; Jennifer is excited to be part of this growth and intends to build upon existing research to make cancer treatment more efficient, precise, and comfortable for patients. Currently, Jennifer has the wonderful opportunity to work with Vishruta Dumane, PHD, DABR, program director of the medical dosimetry program, on research for RapidPlan, a knowledge-based planning application that can be used to create treatment plans for pancreatic cancer.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Jennifer enjoys painting. She has recently discovered a passion for watercolors and gouache. The serenity of creating art is a welcome balance in her life. Additionally, she enjoys experimenting with new recipes and exploring cuisines from diverse cultures. Growing up, Jennifer’s family encouraged her to “try something new at least once,” and she has carried that philosophy with her into her adult life.
Andrea Diaz ’24, Health Science, ’25 Radiation Therapy
Andrea Diaz is a 2024 graduate of the health science major. She is currently enrolled in the radiation therapy certificate program through the Mount Sinai Center for Radiation Sciences Education at Stony Brook University, a partnership between Mount Sinai Health System's Department of Radiation Oncology and the Stony Brook School of Health Professions. Andrea is a recent recipient of the 2024-25 Elekta Foundation Student Scholarship, established in partnership with the American Society of Radiologic Technologists Foundation to assist six of the best and brightest U.S. students financially as they study to become radiation therapists.
Andrea decided to enroll in the radiation therapy certificate program because she aspires to become a part of the radiation oncology team. Both of her parents received radiation therapy throughout their cancer journeys and Andrea has always been fascinated with the care the radiation therapists provided for them. She hopes to support communities with the same care and compassion that her parents received.
Andrea enjoys the ability to work in various teams throughout the Mount Sinai Health System and learns from the mentors that surround her who have taught her the true importance of compassionate patient care. Her clinical rotations have been a rewarding experience thus far, and she looks forward to the future, with hopes to become a part of a radiation oncology team in a medical center after receiving her certificate. Further into the future, she wishes to travel and remain in the field to work for various communities.
When she’s not in the clinic or working, Andrea enjoys reading and spending time with friends and family.
