Submitted by Nancy Marrs
Olivia Cook always had an aptitude for science and after excelling in AP environmental science and anatomy and physiology classes at Marblehead High School, she enrolled at Connecticut College and majored in biological sciences with a minor in psychology. She also pursued a set of courses and experiences in the Public Health Pathway program.
Cook worked hard at school, was challenged by courses in statistics, general chemistry and microbiology, and she valued the lab component of her academics that gave her hands-on experience and fieldwork opportunities.
Immersing herself in campus life, she served as a student advisor for the pre-health club, held work-study jobs at the school’s sports medicine facility and Child Development Lab School, and was inducted into Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology.
“These experiences helped me build leadership skills and connect with other students pursuing careers in healthcare,” said Cook.
Passionate about community service and public health advocacy, Cook was a safety volunteer at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London and worked as a certified nursing assistant at Pendleton Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Mystic.
During her senior year, Cook presented research she’d completed for her Public Health Pathway program at an all-college symposium.
“This project explored how the physical, emotional and social demands of nursing affect nurses’ well-being and how supportive workplace practices can improve both nurse wellness and patient outcomes,” explained Cook.
After graduating from Connecticut College last December, Cook began a 16-month accelerated BSN (ABSN) program at Endicott College and upon graduation she’ll take the national council licensure exam to become a registered nurse. She works part-time
as an emergency department technician at Beverly Hospital. Cook believes her Marblehead Dollars for Scholars scholarship made a meaningful difference in helping her family pay for college. Reapplying for the scholarship each year motivated the future nurse to stay focused, maintain good grades and to pursue impactful experiences through her work and research.
Throughout her undergraduate years, Cook said it meant a great deal to know that people in her hometown believed in her and wanted to help her succeed.
“I am incredibly grateful to everyone who contributes to Marblehead Dollars for Scholars,” said Cook. “I appreciate the investment they made in my education and future.”
Nancy Marrs is a member of the Marblehead Dollars for Scholars Board of Directors.
