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When I began searching for my final co-op placement, I knew I wanted to find an opportunity that would challenge me to think differently. As a biochemistry student at McMaster University, most of my academic experience had primarily been rooted in laboratory research with few opportunities to explore other avenues in broader healthcare settings. I was always curious about how this scientific knowledge could be applied away from the lab bench to improve patient outcomes.

That search led me to PointClickCare Life Sciences.

I first discovered the opportunity through McMaster University’s co-op job board. The position immediately caught my attention because it combined many translational pieces of healthcare that I was eager to explore, such as research, data, technology, and real-world impact. After learning more about PointClickCare and the Life Sciences team, I knew it was exactly the type of experience I was looking for.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

One of the most rewarding aspects of my co-op has been the opportunity to expand my understanding of healthcare research beyond my coursework. While my academic background has focused heavily on the foundations of scientific research, this role has given me exposure to how health data can be used to answer complex questions, particularly in supporting better care for residents in long-term care settings.

During my first week, I was already immersed in the team’s work through project discussions, team meetings, and role-specific training. What stood out immediately was how collaborative the environment is. From my very first day, it was evident how every team member could contribute a unique perspective and approach while still working toward the same goal: improving healthcare outcomes through data-driven insights.

This experience has shown me how research, product development, sales, and clinical expertise all come together to create meaningful impact. Seeing those connections firsthand has been invaluable, offering a type of learning that extends beyond what can be observed in the classroom.

Exploring Meaningful Research

Since joining the team, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to several exciting projects.

One project involves supporting a scoping review exploring the differences between claims data and electronic health record (EHR) data when assessing medication safety and effectiveness in long-term care populations. Through this work, I’ve been able to examine existing research and better understand how real-world healthcare data can provide insights into the complexities of caring for residents with multiple medical conditions, medications, and care needs.

I’ve also been involved with members of the research and clinical leadership teams in investigating the accuracy of medication indications. This project examines how medication indications are documented in long-term care systems and further explores how stronger documentation accuracy can improve data quality for research and care decisions. It’s been fascinating to see how accurately captured clinical information can directly influence resident care, research capabilities, and healthcare outcomes. More than anything, these projects have shown me that meaningful research is not only about delivering results, but also about asking questions, exploring new ideas, and continuing to grow along the way.

Exceeding Expectations

Going into this co-op, I approached the role with an open mind, excited to learn from a new work environment and gain exposure to experiences beyond my previous research background.

Considering everything I’ve learned so far, I can confidently say that this experience continues to exceed anything I imagined.

I’ve been introduced to areas of healthcare, research, and data science that I didn’t even realize existed. The opportunity to work alongside experts from a variety of disciplines has broadened my perspective and shown me new career paths I may not have previously considered.

Perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned that meaningful impact can happen outside the laboratory. Whether through research, data analysis, or healthcare technology, there are countless ways to contribute to improving patient care and advancing healthcare innovation.

Advice for Future Co-op Students

If I could offer one piece of advice to future co-op students, it would be this: be open to trying new things.

Some of the most valuable learning opportunities come from saying “yes” to new challenges. It can be intimidating to step outside of your comfort zone, especially when exploring an area where you have little or no experience. But every project, conversation, and experience has the potential to teach you something unexpected.

I’ve discovered interests I didn’t know I had simply by staying curious and remaining open to opportunities that came my way. Even if something feels unfamiliar, approaching it with a willingness to learn can lead to incredible personal and professional growth.

Looking Ahead

As I prepare to complete my undergraduate degree, I’m still exploring what comes next. Graduate studies are certainly something I’m considering, as I love learning and am always looking for opportunities to continue developing my skills and knowledge.

Whatever path I choose, my experience at PointClickCare Life Sciences has reinforced the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and lifelong learning. It has shown me the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and opened my eyes to new ways that research and technology can work together to improve healthcare.

Most of all, it has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a welcoming team, contribute to meaningful projects, and gain exposure to a side of healthcare research I may never have discovered otherwise.