In the realm of healthcare technology, John Carroll University students are making waves, thanks to a groundbreaking internship program with the renowned Cleveland Clinic. Computer science students are part of a talent pipeline for the Clinic, thanks to a program that gives them hands-on experience in healthcare technology careers.
Among these trailblazers is Adam Brennan '23, currently a software developer at the Clinic, whose journey underscores the program's success in nurturing talent. Adam has been a newsmaker for some time, with a compassionate and creative streak that serves him well in his current role. Adam's story is emblematic of the opportunities afforded by JCU's partnership with the Cleveland Clinic. Choosing JCU primarily for its internship program, Adam found himself on a trajectory toward success even before his senior year began, with a job offer in hand.
Jess Merolla ‘22 is currently a Systems Analyst at Cleveland Clinic’s Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Institute. Jess started her position just a few weeks after graduation and credits her internship with helping her learn lasting skills and embark on her career: "My internship with the Cleveland Clinic gave me a valuable look into the wide range of jobs in the computer science field. I worked with a great team of mentors who helped us explore web applications and data analytics with a healthcare flavor.
I found myself with a growing passion for healthcare, which I don’t think I would have discovered on my own. I was able to share my skills with leadership at the end of my semester as a senior intern, which helped me to form valuable connections within the Imaging Institute. I get to work directly with physicians and other clinical staff to support image capture and reporting workflows that best suit their needs. There’s always something new to learn, and I love that the work I do supports quality patient care.
Initiated eleven years ago by Roseann Spitznagel ‘95, a JCU alumna, computer science major, and Director of Clinical Informatics at the Clinic, the internship program aimed to bridge the gap between healthcare and technology. The result has been a symbiotic relationship, where students gain invaluable experience while the Clinic benefits from fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
Through the program, JCU students have delved into various departments within the Clinic, tackling projects ranging from data analytics to web development. These ventures include the creation of programs such as Encore, a sophisticated tool for radiology imaging report management, processes for removing patient information from images, and an Imaging Report Portal which creates a one-stop shop for all types of reports.
Since its inception, the internship program has seen thirty students pass through its ranks, with seventeen completing internships for multiple semesters, a testament to the program's quality mentorship and enriching experiences. Six former interns have gone on to secure full-time positions at the Clinic, further solidifying the program's impact.
Current students who have completed or are currently completing internships include Joe Melchioris ‘24 and Jon Siudowski ‘25, who are embarking on their second semester with the Clinic. Their presence, alongside other talented individuals like Kaylyn Odelli ‘25, Nicholas Contos ‘24, Stevie Doan ‘24, Brandon Mitchell ‘25, Aidan Stone ‘25, and Grace Talbot ‘25 underscores the enduring appeal and relevance of the internship program.
(L-R: Dalia Sulieman, Colleen Houlahan, Mike Ciancibello ‘14, Josh Ingle, Cathy DeCoske, Roseann Spitznagel ‘95, Jillian Stupianksy, Adam Brennan ‘23, Axel Brandt, Chrystal Bruce, Jada Mull, Jim Wetzel, and Justin Fink)
A recent gathering at JCU brought together alumni, students, Clinic staff, and faculty. This event served not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a testament to the ongoing collaboration between JCU and the Cleveland Clinic in shaping the future of healthcare technology.
As the demand for skilled professionals in healthcare technology continues to grow, programs like the one at JCU stand as beacons of opportunity, paving the way for the next generation of innovators to make their mark on the industry. With each success story, the partnership between JCU and the Cleveland Clinic reaffirms its status as a powerhouse in nurturing talent and driving progress in healthcare technology.