In January 2025 SoCa launched its Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) training program under the superb guidance of facilitator Alexander Toth. The goal of the CRC program is to prepare a pool of CRC-applicants to join the Cancer Clinical Trials Programs at Weill Cornell’s Meyer Cancer Center and Columbia University’s Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center. Our inaugural cohort featured three students:
Carolyn M. Jorge
Carolyn is a second year MPH student at the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health. Her broad range of research experiences, ranging from investigating drug interventions for cardiomyopathies to smoking cessation policy in New York City public housing developments, have given her a wide range of research skills and expertise. After said experiences, she is excited to pursue her passion for health research and pivot into clinical research studies. She hopes to provide her expertise in various research methodologies and to apply a social determinants of health lens to any project she is involved with.
Elesha McGrath
Elesha is a senior at Hunter College majoring in Biological Sciences. With a solid foundation in basic cancer research from several rewarding experiences, she sought more patient interaction in her research and applied to the SoCa CRC training program, driven by a passion for helping people. Through the SoCa program, she refined her career goals and skills, preparing for a role as a CRC and a future career in clinical research. Elesha discovered the immense ways she could contribute to society and improve patient outcomes as a CRC. With a dedication to excellence and a heart for service, she looks forward to making a meaningful impact in the field of clinical research.
Maisha Mohosheen
Maisha is a senior Biology major at Hunter College on the pre-med track. With experience as a Cornell research assistant and a SoCa scholar, she is committed to increasing representation in clinical trials and the healthcare workforce. She is devoted to addressing the social determinants of health, uplifting communities, and empowering people to take proactive steps in their health. As she prepares for medical school, she plans to work as a clinical research coordinator, leveraging research to improve patient care and shape policies that drive change.
Participants underwent an intensive 10-day training in the core competencies of clinical research coordinators. We are proud to announce that all three completed their modules and will be proceeding to the exciting next step of the program – job shadowing at Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia University.
For more information on the Clinical Research Coordinator Program, please check out the CRC Program website.
