Alumni Feature

We are proud to spotlight Sydnie Washington and the meaningful clinical experience she gained through her internship at the Vein and Vascular Institute at Arkansas Heart Hospital. Immersing herself in nearly 400 hours of hands-on patient care, Sydnie strengthened not only her clinical skills but also her commitment to compassionate, patient-centered medicine. Below, she reflects on the experience in her own words.

“I had the incredible opportunity to serve as a Vascular Assistant with the Vein and Vascular Institute at the Arkansas Heart Hospital during the summer of 2025. Over the course of nearly 400 hours, I gained hands-on clinical experience that fundamentally shaped my understanding of patient-centered care and deepened my commitment to medicine.

In this role, I took patient vitals, assisted with intake and charting, and supported patients through their visits – ensuring they felt comfortable and informed throughout their care. I earned my Basic Life Support certification and learned to navigate hospital systems from both clinical and administrative perspectives. What made this experience so meaningful was witnessing how small gestures – a reassuring conversation, a kind presence – could ease a patient’s worry. Those moments reminded me of the type of physician I aspire to become – one who provides not only excellent care but also genuine compassion and advocacy.

I also shadowed physicians across different subspecialties, observing different cardiovascular procedures and treatments. These experiences gave me a deeper appreciation for the complexity of cardiac medicine while exposing me to many unique professions. The Arkansas Heart Hospital team welcomed me with open arms. From day one, they treated me like family, always willing to teach and guide me. Their mentorship made all the difference.

When I returned over winter break, the hospital allowed me to come back and work for the month of December. At the end of my brief return, the Vein and Vascular Department graciously offered me a virtual position. I now work part-time with the Vein and Vascular department, assisting with administrative tasks such as patient scheduling and technical coordination. This ongoing role has allowed me to build lasting connections with healthcare providers and maintain my involvement in patient care even while managing a demanding academic schedule. The experience has strengthened both my clinical skills and my confidence, and I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow alongside such an exceptional team. I am excited to be a long-term member of the Vein and Vascular Department and the opportunity to continue cultivating my clinical experience.”

Sydnie is currently a sophomore at Xavier University of Louisiana, majoring in Biology on the Pre-Med track and double minoring in Chemistry and Public Health.

Keep up the good work, Sydnie!

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