The Unseen Heroes of Healthcare: A Journey into Medical Physics

"When I first stepped onto the Lebanon Valley College (LVC) campus, I felt an unmistakable sense of belonging. It felt different in a good way," said Jackie Kain '10. "My mother, a high school educator, had encouraged me to visit LVC, and it was there that I discovered a community that would inspire me to explore what eventually became my true passion-medical physics."

Initially a Math Education major, Kain's path shifted when she encountered Dr. Michael Day, Professor Emeritus of Physics, whose enthusiasm was contagious. After a casual conversation about her interest in Physics, Dr. Day urged her to continuing studying Physics in addition to pursuing the Mathematics curriculum.

"Dr. Day told me that Physics isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding the world and the things around us," which ignited a spark in me," said Kain.

By her sophomore year, she found herself enthralled by the application of physics in medicine, particularly after learning that medical physicists play a crucial role in treating conditions like brain tumors-a cause very close to her heart as her father faced treatment for an acoustic neuroma.

The pivotal moment came during a gathering where Jay Yoder '91, also a medical physicist, shared insights about the field. "Medical physics combines the precision of physics with the compassion of medicine, he explained, and I realized this was where I belonged," said Kain.

"My experiences at LVC weren't just academic; they were transformative. Serving as cheerleading captain, treasurer of Gamma Sigma Sigma, and a resident assistant taught me leadership and teamwork," added Kain. "Every role taught me that success isn't just about individual achievement; it's about working as a team and lifting others."

After graduation, Kain earned her master's in science in Medical Physics at Columbia University's Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, where she made another LVC connection. She was spurred by the encouragement of faculty like the late Dr. Edward Nickoloff '65, Emeritus Professor of Radiology at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, who recognized her potential.

"The rigor of LVC's science curriculum prepared me to excel academically at an Ivy League institution," said Kain. And Dr. Nickoloff's belief in me bolstered my confidence."

Kain joined Penn Medicine/Lancaster General Health after Columbia and now is a board certified Diagnostic Medical Physicist and Assistant Radiation Safety Officer. In addition to her clinical role, Kain serves as a faculty member in the Imaging Physics Residency Program for The University of Pennsylvania.

Over a decade into her career, Kain realizes the importance of her role.

"I regularly remind myself that medical physicists are vital healthcare team members. I contribute indirectly to the critical work of my frontline healthcare colleagues to help save lives every day."

To young women considering STEM careers:

"Embrace your curiosity and remember that your unique perspective is invaluable," said Kain. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are profound. In the words of Dr. Day, 'It's about making a difference in the world.' And that, to me, is the essence of being a medical physicist."