Olivia Jackman '21

Adaptation and Strength in Uncertain Times
UNH student Olivia Jackman '21

Olivia Jackman is a biomedical science: medical microbiology major and double minor in justice studies and forensic sciences from Newton, New Hampshire.

COLSA: Please describe your job with ConvenientMD.

Olivia: My position with ConvenientMD consists of both registration and testing shifts. Registration includs working with the online database to search patient information in order to provide them with a barcode and testing kit. Testing includes explaining the procedure and then performing a nasal swab.

After finishing those steps, the sample is properly packed for shipment to the testing facility. Both positions require appropriate PPE: a medical face mask for registration and an N95 mask, full gown, face shield, and two layers of gloves  for testing, with the top layer of gloves being replaced after every patient.

"By working for ConvenientMD I now understand that supporting others throughout trying times is key to lifting up the community and providing hope."

COLSA: Why did you apply for the job?

Olivia: I applied for this position because it has always been my passion to assist in outbreak response. I yearned to work on the front lines and support my community during these difficult and uncertain times. I have gained crucial clinical experience, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity. All the experience and information I have learned will be carried with me to any future positions I take on.

COLSA: What is the most important or interesting thing you've learned so far?

Olivia: The most important lesson I have learned while working for ConvenientMD is to be there for others in any way possible. Ever since COVID-19 became the forefront of daily life, I feel that working together as a society should be the paramount goal. By working for ConvenientMD I now understand that supporting others throughout trying times is key to lifting up the community and providing hope.

COLSA: What does it mean to you to be on the front lines doing essential work to help manage the spread of COVID-19?

Olivia: It means absolutely everything to me to be working on the front lines. My mother falls under multiple high-risk categories, and I cannot wait until it is safe again for her to live a normal life and go back to more enjoyable times. By providing reliable testing I feel we are getting closer every day to new horizons. I am extremely proud to be able to help on the front lines and work to manage the spread of COVID-19.

COLSA: How has this experience been valuable for you?

Olivia: I have not only gained clinical experience, I have also grown as a person and adapted to the conditions presented. Throughout this pandemic, I have learned to take everything day by day and step by step. I treasure every moment with family and live by the firm belief that being cautious is better than the potential risks.

COLSA: Is there anything about being tested and/or UNH's testing program that you'd like the UNH community or others to know?

Olivia: I completely understand that being tested for COVID-19 is not an ideal part of anyone's to-do list, but I can only hope that I make the experience as pleasant as possible! Stay safe everyone!

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