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September Student of the Month 2012

Alexandra Small

Paterson local, Alexandra Small, is a modest young woman with her eyes on the future. This student of the Academy of Medical Arts has always known she wanted to be a part of the medical field, making PCTI the perfect place for her to call home.

Alexandra is off to the perfect start. In her time at the award winning high school, she has accumulated college credits through Biology and Anatomy & Physiology, and will be incurring more through AP English and EMT training. She has also been on the Principal’s Honor Roll numerous times throughout her high school career.

Her favorite subjects are both Anatomy and English. Alexandra is fond of the former because she enjoys compiling knowledge for her future in medicine, making her well-practiced in the art of studying. English intrigues her because it combines her hobby of reading. She also enjoys learning about the art of communication by applying one’s thoughts to paper.

Though she is tackling a full course load, Alexandra makes it a priority to volunteer weekly at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson. It is here that she transports patients around the hospital, pro- viding the comfort only her one-of-a-kind personality can bring.

Her inspiration of helping others is drawn from family. Both her mother and sister have professions in the medical field. Witnessing their passion has encouraged Alexandra to chase after her dreams.

When asked about her plans for the future, Alexandra expressed a soft spot for babies. She has already chosen to pursue a career in Neonatal Nursing. “Helping babies in their first twenty eight days allows me to impact their future lives as individuals,” she said.

Alexandra looks forward to receiving her BS in Nursing, gaining experience in Mater- nity, and eventually becoming a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. She will be applying to NYU, the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, and William Paterson University.

When asked if she had advice for future Bulldogs, Alexandra said, “There are so many opportunities to take advantage of at PCTI. I'm more knowledgeable and interested in the world because I was made aware of them!"

It certainly sounds like Alexandra is on the right track. Good luck to this bright young woman! She’s sure to go far!

Highlights
  • Ranked in the top two percent of her class
  • A member of the Gifted & Talented Program and HOSA
  • Volunteers weekly at St. Joseph's in Paterson, transporting patients
  • Has taken numerous AP/Honors courses
  • Will receive EMT certification in May
  • Has accumulated 16 college credits
  • Goal: To attend university and receive her BS in Nursing, eventually becoming a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner