3 minute read
Dreaming of a future at Newton-Wellesley
Editor’s note: the following remarks were presented by Leyna Lamothe, a summer intern at the Manton Breast Imaging Center, to participants at this fall’s NWH Golf Tournament. Again this year, the event raised vital funds for the summer internship program, sponsored by the Workforce Development Council of the NWH Community Collaborative.
First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to Steve Dautruche and Lauren Lele, the program coordinators, for giving me this incredible opportunity to speak to you all today. This opportunity also wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of my supervisor, Barbara Ferreira.
Knowing I was juggling three jobs to support my mom and save for tuition, she went above and beyond to accommodate my hectic schedule. Her kindness and understanding allowed me to pursue this amazing experience while fulfilling my responsibilities.
Now, for those of you who don’t know me, my name is Leyna Lamothe. I am a recent honors graduate of Waltham High School, now in my first year at Regis College, majoring in Diagnostic Medical Sonography.
I’m deeply passionate about women’s health and maternity. This passion has led me to pursue my summer internship at Newton-Wellesley—and specifically in the Breast Imaging Center.
From my first moment as an intern, the team welcomed me with open arms.
These incredibly intelligent and compassionate women became more than just colleagues. They were mentors who embodied the perfect blend of professionalism and kindness. They were always willing to answer my endless questions, share their experiences, and offer their advice. Their dedication to their patients and their craft inspired me every day.
Of all the mentors that I met, one of the most impactful was Dr. Achibiri, an amazing radiologist. As a young black woman pursuing a career in healthcare, I felt incredibly empowered to see someone who looked like me excelling in such a highly esteemed role.
Dr. Achibiri’s own journey resonated deeply with me. Her words of encouragement and advice were a source of immense inspiration, reminding me that representation matters. Her mentorship fueled my desire to succeed—not only for myself but also for other young women of color who aspire to make a difference in the medical field.
My time shadowing all of these remarkable women really opened my eyes. I witnessed firsthand the intricacies of ultrasound and mammography. I learned about the technology and techniques used in diagnosing and monitoring the medical conditions affecting patients’ lives. The hands-on experience I gained was invaluable.
This internship has been an incredible journey of learning, growth, and inspiration, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. Along with confirming my passion for the field, it placed me a step ahead of my sonography peers.
The experience definitely makes me wish that I could come back again and join the staff. The community is so welcoming, and I am so proud to have been a part of it.
Someday, I hope to land a position in maternal fetal medicine at Newton-Wellesley so I can explore women’s health more deeply. Who knows? Maybe I’ll even mentor future interns.
Thank you all for making this possible for me and my peers at Waltham High. While we all have different dreams, I know we all are eager to learn, and the experiences we had this summer across the hospital will stay with us forever.
