Growing up in a small, coal-region town in Pennsylvania instilled a work ethic in Emily Fannick that got her all the way to medical school.
“No one in my family or immediate friend groups, besides my younger sister, works in healthcare,” she said. “My passion for mental health and bringing quality healthcare back to rural areas have inspired me to pursue my current career path.”
Fannick's passion specifically centers around veterans, whom she has worked with during her practicum rotation and predoctoral internship. She's been able to gain valuable experience while attending PCOM, a school that was at the top of her list when applying to doctoral programs.
“I completed my bachelor's and master's degrees right down the road at Saint Joseph's University, and I met PCOM faculty through information sessions held at SJU,” she said. “I felt that my training there and the training I have received at PCOM have complemented each other and helped me feel confident in both my clinical and research pursuits.”
While at PCOM, Fannick has been heavily involved. To name a few highlights, she was a teaching assistant for three courses, an executive board member of PCOM's chapter of APA Division 40's Association of Neuropsychology Students and Trainees (ANST), and a member of the Psychology National Honor Society (Psi Chi).
“The PCOM meaning expands outside of the classroom, clinical rotations, and career pursuits,” she shared. “PCOM's values are not only seen in its advocacy efforts in the community but also in the families and friends who support students following their dreams.”
For Fannick, that support comes from her biggest inspirations: her mom, dad, younger sister, aunts, and grandmother.
“Although my academic endeavors at PCOM are coming to an end, I know that what I have learned from faculty, the relationships I have made with my cohort, and the ideals I have been exposed to will last a lifetime and carry on throughout my personal vocations and professional endeavors,” she said.
“I encourage others who are from rural areas, such as myself, to pursue their dreams and take that leap of faith.”
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