Alumna Shares her Thoughts From the Front Lines of the COVID-19 Pandemic

During these uncertain times, there are so many unanswerable questions and unprecedented changes; but on the front lines are healthcare workers like Julie Tondt BC’14, MD. Like many USciences alumni; who are researchers, pharmacists, nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, physician assistants and other healthcare professionals; Dr. Tondt is rising to the challenge every day, leaving her family to fight the invisible enemy, COVID-19. 

Dr. Tondt is a current postgraduate year 2 resident physician and rising Chief Resident Physician for the year 20-21 in the Emergency Medicine Department at Eastern Virginia Medical School. The education Dr. Tondt received from USciences not only prepared her for medical school at The Commonwealth Medical College (now Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine), but also groomed her for her essential role as a resident in the Emergency Medicine Department. The world has never needed individuals like Dr. Tondt, more than it does now. 

“From the emergency department to the ICU, the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic are filled with amazing doctors, nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, therapists, and countless other medical/hospital staff,” said Dr. Tondt. 

Having the ability to make a difference and help people is the reason many individuals decide to start a career in healthcare or science. The ambitions of these individuals to make a positive impact during these unparalleled times is remarkable. 

“For those of you who have family or friends who are currently in isolation/hospitalized with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, know there are healthcare professionals going above and beyond to make sure your loved ones are truly cared for as one of their own,” assures Dr. Tondt. 

The world will be forever changed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Becoming a healthcare or science professional might not have seemed as glamorous as before compared to a professional athlete or a celebrity, but now the world sees and realizes how essential these professionals are to society. 

“Although the days ahead are full of uncertainty as we as a nation and a planet face the COVID-19 pandemic, one may find comfort in knowing the medical community will be here to provide care to those who are in need,” said Dr. Tondt. “Not all heroes wear capes, but many heroes wear scrubs."

Categories: News, Misher College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Pre-medical Education, Alumni, Proven Everywhere, Coronavirus, Feature Story