“ Never in a million years did I think I would be working during a pandemic . I feel extremely lucky to be able to work where I do and with the people I do ... I believe we are stronger because we have each other .”
For Ali , the relocation of SCU has added a layer of challenge to her already complex set of tasks . “ It has taken me a really long time to learn where everything is and to get into a workflow in our new space . On the positive side , I am really fortunate to work with a phenomenal group of people . Everyone is extremely understanding and patient with each other while we all try to navigate through the changes ... the SCU environment is very similar to the TA environment . Everyone is welcomed with open arms and provides constant support for one another .”
As a student at TA , Ali experienced a similar kind of acceptance and support as a member of the soccer , indoor track , and outdoor track teams . The amount of support and camaraderie at TA influenced her desire to be part of a medical team . She also got her first taste of the career she now loves through TA ’ s partnership with Biddeford Regional Center of Technology ( BRCOT ), where she earned her Nurse Assistant Certification while still in high school .
“ Because of this [ experience ] I was able to make the decision that I wanted to attend nursing school . Fast forward to now , I am a senior at the University of Southern Maine and getting ready to graduate with my BS in Nursing .”
Needless to say , Jennifer is a proud mom . “ In addition to being colleagues at MMC , we have worked together in the medical tents at the Boston Marathon ( under the direction of my sister Stephanie Shuler Walsh ’ 98 , Boston Marathon Course Medical Coordinator ) as well as several community events ... in the past several years , Ali and I have truly been ‘ stronger together .’” Ali agrees . “ Never in a million years did I think I would be working during a pandemic . I feel extremely lucky to be able to work where I do and with the people I do ... I believe we are stronger because we have each other .”
Did you know ?
Ron Cote , history and AP psychology teacher at TA , is Jennifer ’ s husband and Ali ’ s dad !
Their family also includes recent TA grad , Cam Cote ’ 20 !
5