Northeast Student Finds New Paths to Success with Support from Study Partners and Professors
Meet Marcus Paul.
Hometown: Westampton, N.J.
Education: bachelor's degree in biology, St. Peters University, N.J.
As an undergrad studying biology in New Jersey, learning about anatomy, physiology, and the structure and function of life forms, Marcus Paul (D.C. '22) knew he wanted to work with people -- possibly as a physical therapist.
Then he shadowed a chiropractor on the job. His sights shifted and his career goals were solidified. "It was all about the hands-on and whole body approach (of chiropractic) that appealed to me," Paul said.
Marcus Paul started his journey to Northeast College of Health Sciences with the hope of being a team chiropractor in the NFL. Now his goal is to build his own business and clientele, including athletes, near his large family in New Jersey.
He choose Northeast to help him fulfill these goals because he knew the rigorous curriculum would prepare him to pass his board exams and teach him how to run a successful business. Once he began classes Paul quickly realized he also had a strong support system to count on. "(Northeast is) a tightknit community. There's such a camaraderie and willingness from other students to help each other out," he said.
Quick Questions with Doctor of Chiropractic Student Marcus Paul.
Marcus Paul was just starting his second trimester when colleges across the country moved to online learning during the global health pandemic. He received a quick lesson in adaption and how to be part of a team, even while at a distance -- lessons he will be able to use throughout his education and career.
What challenges have you found during the pandemic, how did you adapt?
It took me a few weeks to adapt to the quick change from being on campus to being online. I leaned on my study partner a lot. We both had our own set of challenges, so it really helped to talk to each other about the realities of what we were experiencing.
How were you able to keep momentum and be successful in your studies?
The faculty and my classmates have been so helpful. It can really be easy to fall into a not-so-great mental health state when you don't get to see each other or pop into professors' offices. Faculty have been so helpful and made so many adjustments to still make themselves available. I have also joined online study groups and taken advantage of the virtual open tutoring. To keep my balance, I make sure to take the time for relaxation as well as exercise.
What advice can you give students beginning college during uncertain times or starting remote learning for the first time?
The No. 1 thing is to stay positive. Have an optimistic mindset, instead of thinking about what could go wrong; make sure to stay focused on the positive. Also, stay organized. Only worry about controlling what you can control, but organization is pretty much key, especially when more work is coming through and being done online.
When on campus, what are some of your favorite getaways in the Finger Lakes?
Hiking at Taughannock Falls State Park and visiting the wine trails with (masked!) friends on a day off.
