Women’s History Month: Introducing Avalon’s Clinical Coordinators
As you go through your MD degree with Avalon University School of Medicine, you will encounter many different members of Avalon’s faculty and staff. After you complete your basic sciences you will enter the final stage of your degree, clinical rotations! To help guide you through your rotations you will work with one of Avalon’s dedicated Clinical Coordinators!
Read the instructions below to get to know our wonderful Clinical Coordinators!
Melissa Angelilli, Clinical Coordinator (Last Names A-L)
I grew up in Boardman, Ohio, graduated from Vet Tech Institute in 2010 and worked as a Registered Veterinary Technician from 2010 until 2021 when I signed on with Avalon University School of Medicine. During my career in veterinary medicine, I was involved in DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) resident training through a specialty hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. These skills transferred easily when I moved fields from animal medicine to human medical education.
Only two months after starting my position with Avalon, my partner tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident and left me as the sole caregiver of our two small boys. My coworkers here at Avalon gave me support, understanding, and helped me get through the most difficult time of my life that I could have ever imagined.
In my time here over the last two years, it has been evident that this university and company has integrity in its practices, honesty in its mission, and compassion for its people.
Jaci Clark, Clinical Coordinator (Last Names M-Z)
Getting to Know Jaci
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: Gender Equality and LGBTQ+ Rights
Q: What are your favorite hobbies?
A: I love to cook and make art. I’m also a true crime junkie so anything from TV shows to Podcasts, I’m on it!
Q: What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
A: By far raising my children to be happy, healthy humans is my greatest accomplishment.
Q: What influential women in history do you most admire and why?
A: Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Gloria Steinem. Both women made great strides in the advancement of gender equality and women’s rights.
Jaci, Tell Us Your Thoughts About Avalon University!
Q: What do you love most about Avalon University?
A: The people I work with are amazing! I know how rare it is to find a workplace environment that’s supportive and kind, but the lovely people here make that a reality.
Q: What has been your best experience so far in relation to Avalon University?
A: It’s hard to nail down just one but overall, I love being a part of my student’s journey. Yes, helping them become doctors is wonderful but I also love watching them grow into kind, compassionate, and confident human beings. I’m proud and happy to have had a part in that.
Q: Do you have any words of advice or encouragement for current and future Avalon students?
A: YES! So many!
- Always remember you are not alone. The stresses of life and med school can feel so isolating at times. Just remember those are the lies! The truth is there are tons of other students just like you are feeling the same way.
- Do NOT be afraid to ask for help. You do not have to carry the weight of the world all by yourself. Vulnerability is a superpower! Give someone the gift of allowing them to help.
- Be your own advocate! Fight for what you need. Set strong boundaries. Lastly, learn how to Breathe! It will serve you well throughout your entire life.
