Alyssa Bland '26

Why did you choose Lasell?

I chose Lasell because it had many great opportunities and connections in my field. The Exercise Science program has high-tech equipment that supports hands-on learning. I wanted to get the best education I could while being able to play my sport at the next level. 

What clubs, athletics, organizations are you involved in?

I have been a four-year student athlete on the softball team here and am the treasurer of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). Being a part of the softball team and athletics community as a whole has been extremely rewarding. 

Have you had an internship? What did you learn?

At Boston Children's Hospital, I am an intern in the Cardiology unit working in the Exercise Lab where we work with both pediatric and adult patients. I am responsible for greeting and prepping the patients, leading and assisting to create fitness sessions, assisting with exercise stress tests, and assisting with vitals. I have been learning to interpret ECGs and identify abnormalities in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). I have learned about many different types of CHD and how doctors intervene to repair them and monitor.

I plan to become a Physician Assistant, so this internship has shown me a lot about working in a different aspect of the hospital and with a different population of patients. I have been able to dive deeply into exercise testing, something that I was introduced to my junior year. 

How has your academic program or professors helped prepare you for your future career?  

My program and professors have given me a great baseline of knowledge to build upon as I plan to get my master's degree. Lasell offers lots of hands-on learning and is an extremely supportive environment. I felt that my questions were always welcomed and answered. My advisor helped to guide me in connecting my class load with opportunities to help me grow both professionally and personally. My professors gave me the opportunity to pursue what I was interested in and make the most out of my experiences. 

What are your Lasell traditions or favorite activities to do on or off campus? 

One of my favorite traditions at Lasell is the Torchlight Parade. I think it's a great symbol of all the legacies that make Lasell what it is. I love that Boston is so close and love to explore when I have the time!