Working on the Frontlines of the COVID-19 Pandemic by Ava Tsapatsaris

As a junior in high school, I have the goal of becoming a physician. Amidst the pandemic, I have heard on the news how “medical students across the country are receiving their degrees early to join the COVID-19 relief effort and ease burdens on overworked and understaffed hospital care teams.” (time.com) Once hearing those reports, I wanted to do something to help. Even though I am not a medical student yet, I knew there had to be something I can do to help people in my community.

I began searching for a job as a COVID-19 Tester online. I came across a posting for a local drugstore in need for a COVID-19 Tester & Lab Assistant. I took an online certification course to learn the required information such as how to administer the test and safety protocols. Then, I applied for the job. A few weeks later I was called in for an interview. The same day of my interview I found out I got the job!

Since March, I have been working as a COVID-19 Tester & Lab Assistant. My responsibilities include administering COVID-19 Tests to drive-through community members, greeting and communicating with patients, processing test results and reporting test results to patients.

I love my job, and I cannot wait to become a physician in the future. Loukoumi has taught me to serve my community and the world around me. One day when I tell my future children about how I lived through a pandemic, I will be even prouder to tell them I helped keep my community safe.