While embarking on the experiential learning journey, Huskies often find themselves at the crossroads of passion and practicality, seeking avenues where their interests intersect with professional aspirations. Josephine Tucker, DMSB '26, epitomizes this convergence as she navigates her dual degree in Health Science and Business Administration at the D'Amore-McKim School of Business. Josephine shares insights into her Northeastern experience, highlighting her transformative co-op journey at the Pine Street Inn, her aspirations for a future in nonprofit work, and her invaluable advice for fellow students who are embarking on their own academic odyssey.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue your degree at D'Amore-McKim?
A: I chose to study Health Science and Business Administration because I have always found myself draown to the medical field, but I also know I do not plan on being a doctor. My favorite classes have been focused on evaluating different healthcare systems and learning about national and global health inequities, so this is where I want to focus professionally. I hope to pursue a career in public health, helping others access care and spreading awareness for disparities many people face, especially in Boston. This major exposes me to the scientific parts of the industry, as well as how the economy impacts healthcare.
Q: Share 3 highlights from your Northeastern experience.
A: Exploring Boston has been one of my favorite things about Northeastern. Our main campus is in such a great location that we can easily access the best parts of the city. I really love trying new restaurants around Boston and just finding new places. While on co-op, I have been able to spend my days off taking the T to areas I have never been to just to wander around, which I highly recommend.
Northeastern is also such a large school that I am constantly meeting new people. Most of my friends I have known since my first month here, but I am still creating new friendships everywhere I go, from co-op to clubs to classes. I love how open everyone is to meeting others. This semester specifically, I have had such a great time just hanging around my friends' apartments or in the past having big group dinners at the dining hall that we encouraged any of our friends to join.
My third highlight from my Northeastern experience so far has been cheering for the Boston Marathon runners with the Northeastern Club Running Team. Club Running is a super great way to meet new people and truly has opportunities for all sorts of skill levels. Practices are always a great way to get away from the computer and enjoy the weather on nice days (or bond with the other members on really terrible days!). There are all different types of races throughout the year as well as social events/runs. I highly recommend NUCR to anyone!
Q: Tell us about your co-op experience
A: I am currently working at the Pine Street Inn, which is a local homeless shelter serving adult individuals and the largest provider of homeless services in New England. I work in the Volunteers Department as a Volunteer Programs and Advancement Assistant Co-op doing administrative work, accepting donations, and organizing volunteers at the shelter and other housing sites. This is my first co-op, and I am so thrilled I chose it. My application process was a little hectic because I had no idea what kind of organization I wanted to work at. I never thought I would fall in love with non-profit work as much as I have.
The Pine Street Inn is truly becoming another home for me. My supervisors and colleagues do such inspiring work, and their enthusiasm for being at the Inn really shows. I took the position because of their energy and excitement. We have a saying in the office that the Volunteers Department is the fun department, and it is very true. The time at the shelter is going by so fast, but I also feel like I have worked there forever. Even after my co-op ends, the Pine Street will always have a place in my heart.
Q: Careerwise, what are you excited about pursuing in the future?
A: My co-op at the Pine Street Inn has taught me that I truly love non-profit work and can absolutely see myself working in a similar field to the one I am in now. I like learning about the challenges people face and how organizations such as Pine Street can help alleviate some of these difficulties. The issue of homelessness is extremely complex and interesting to me, especially in a city like Boston. I want to explore the differences in homelessness in other cities in the future and hopefully work in fundraising or other donor engagement.
Q: What advice do you have for future students?
A: My biggest advice is to say yes to every opportunity that interests you, especially early in your Northeastern career. I met so many of my friends in the first month because I walked around campus, explored, and went to club meetings. I was terrified of going to a place where I knew nobody, but I pushed myself to talk to new people. Present me is so grateful that I stepped out of my comfort zone a year ago. Some of my best memories came out of spur-of-the-moment opportunities, such as a last-minute invite to dinner or to tag along on a walk around Boston.