The Beginning

New York City is such a wonderful place and there is no place like it in the world. It is full of energy and life during both the day and night. It contains people of all different backgrounds--a place where you'll never see the same person walking down the street twice. It has many sites of attraction such as Times Square and Central Park. It is definitely a place you'll never want to leave.

I practically grew up in this magnificent city. I am originally from New Rochelle, NY, which is a town in Westchester County that is only half an hour away from city lights. I spent every other weekend with my dad in Manhattan and so I know a lot about the city's history and the tourist attractions. Being a part of New York City for so long also allows me to understand how to get around using public transportation, which is a big plus.

A little about myself, perhaps? My name is Gregory Fratellone and I am twenty years old. I am going to be a Middler at Northeastern University come spring semester and I am currently studying Biology with a minor in Psychology. My career goal is to become a veterinarian.

I am currently co-oping in Manhattan at a veterinary clinic called Center of Veterinary Care and I absolutely love it. Every day I go into work, I experience something completely different--preparing bloods to be tested in the lab, restraining dogs or cats that are having their nails trimmed or that are getting a catheter and observing an intense yet exciting surgery. Some days are busier than others but each day I learn something new.

One of the benefits of working at the animal hospital is spending time with doctors that have gone through what I have been through and who have reached the goal I hope to one day reach. I like to spend time with the many doctors and pick their brains about the schooling they went through and the many things they have learned from working with so many animals for so many years. Each one of the four veterinarians I work with absolutely love their jobs and it makes me think about the day that I'll feel the exact same way.

I can't believe how fast a month flew by! I have learned a lot but there is still so much more to learn. I was told that I would soon be able to learn how to draw blood from an animal and I would see some major bone surgeries, which I am super excited about. I can't wait to share all of my co-op experiences with you. Lunch break is over, back to work!