Student Isabella Sacharczyk Speaks About the Importance of Internships

“It fell into my lap,” Isabella Sacharczyk ’24 said about her first internship at the Boston Children’s Hospital. “One introduction blew my mind.”

Of course, this would begin a process of many internships Sacharczyk would undertake. Sacharczyk struggles with Hydrocephalus, a disorder of the brain caused by buildup of cerebrospinal fluid. Too much of this fluid puts pressure on the brain tissues, eventually leading to headaches, vision problems, poor cognition, and if not caught or treated, can result in much more serious neurological symptoms—even death.

Isabella said her parents were told by doctors that she would never walk, talk, or see. Now, and twenty-three brain surgeries later, she’s a thriving student at Westfield State and is pursuing a career in medical research so that she can help find more efficient ways to treat or even cure Hydrocephalus.

During the course of several internships, Isabella began working with the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation, at which she is also a member and spokesperson, raising up to $20,000 a year. “Every dollar goes to research,” she said. “No one knows what Hydrocephalus is. It’s pretty invisible. There’s such a need for research and advocacy… I want to be part of this.”

Sacharczyk originally wanted to pursue a degree in math. She wanted to teach, as her favorite math teacher had also attended the Westfield State. Instead, she ended up attending the university and then accepted internships with Boston Children’s Hospital, as well as with Baystate Medical Center, finding what she described as her “niche”. She strongly advised that students with the opportunity should do the same.

“Don’t be afraid to change your mind. Allow change. Life isn’t set in stone, so be open to who you are.”

Giselle Frechette, associate director of the Career Center, also commented on the importance of internships and how they can shape a student’s future trajectory. “As a career counselor, my life’s passion is helping others discover their passion and purpose in life. It is the greatest feeling helping students realize their dreams and land opportunities that set them on a path for success,” she said.

“Bella Sacharczyk is a prime example of a student with a mission in life. Despite having Pediatric Hydrocephalus, she won’t let anything prevent her from realizing her goals through internships and networking. Her fervor to educate others on Pediatric Hydrocephalus is contagious, and I am so impressed by her tenacity. I can’t wait to see where life leads her next!”

When asked what the most compelling part of her internships have been, Isabella was quick to answer. “The sense of community. I wasn’t sure about research… connection is the biggest [part]. If you find your niche, an internship might lead you to really, really great things.”

For now, she plans to finish up at Westfield State and then move on to graduate school where she will continue to study biology and pursue medical research.