Julia Gennaccaro always knew she wanted to help people in their moment of need, but it wasn’t until she found The Michener Institute that her path became clear. It’s a journey that has led her to her future career, and to being awarded the 2024 Dr. Diana Michener Schatz Scholarship.
Recounting past aspirations, Julia smiles as she describes her original plan to enter forensic sciences. “It turns out I didn’t have the stomach for it,” she says with a laugh. “But I still knew I wanted to do something to help people.”
After completing a degree in molecular biology and genetics at the University of Guelph, Julia entered the healthcare workforce as a research assistant with Hamilton Health Sciences. While she valued her experiences in clinical research and found fulfillment in helping others, she wanted deeper personal interactions that were lacking in the role.
“I found with my research there was less work with people directly,” she says. “I had to learn the hard way that wasn’t it for me.”
Looking into Michener she discovered the field of nuclear medicine, and as they say the rest is history. The program has led her to work in hospitals across the city through an externship and placement, and to this year’s Schatz Scholarship award.
It was a recognition Julia did not expect to receive. “I was a little shocked and overwhelmed when I got the email,” she says. “To be recognized for an award named after Dr. Schatz is such an honour.”
Established in 1996 in honour of the founder and former president of The Michener Institute, the award distinguishes a student in the midst of a career transition who achieves academic excellence, displays innovative thinking and contributes to the Michener community.
Julia says the recognition is another example of the supportive nature at Michener. “Some days can be tough, so it’s really nice to know we have people rooting for us to succeed.”
After she crosses the stage at convocation next month, Julia will begin her career as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist with St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. She’s excited to get her new career underway. “Because the program is so specific and the courses are tailored so well, you’re ready to get out into the work environment by the time you’re done,” she says.
“It’s a guiding route that leaves you well-prepared by the time you graduate.”
