Massimo S. Qasemi, a student majoring in Global Public Health and Biology at New York University, spent his summer gaining clinical and research experience at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Qasemi began his days early, commuting from Washington, D.C. to the Bethesda campus for morning medical reports and observing surgical procedures alongside residents and other students.
Qasemi described the opportunity as significant for both his academic development and future career goals. “I’m fortunate to be here alongside my younger brother, who is also an Army ROTC cadet and a pre-med student at Cornell,” he said. “It’s a tremendous privilege to be in the OR, often alongside medical students who are observing just like us, and we’re both very grateful for the opportunity.”
During his observership, Qasemi worked under Dr. Alfred J. Pisano, an orthopedic spine surgeon who directs research in the department. “He’s been incredibly generous with his time and guidance,” Qasemi noted.
His responsibilities included shadowing in clinics, observing surgeries, and conducting research on orthopedic biomechanics—studying how musculoskeletal tissues and implants respond to stress. This work involved analyzing injury mechanisms through cadaveric testing and motion analysis. He also rotated through other departments such as neurosurgery.
“In the biomechanics lab, we study the mechanical performance of musculoskeletal structures and surgical hardware,” Qasemi explained. “Our work involves testing cadaveric bones under various loads and angles, as well as evaluating fixation devices such as intramedullary nails, plates, and screws, hardware that is either affixed to the bone or inserted through it to stabilize fractures. We simulate real-world scenarios, including the biomechanical stress experienced by patients during rehabilitation or while using assistive devices like crutches. This research helps inform surgical decision-making and contributes to improving the strength, reliability, and clinical outcomes of orthopedic fixation techniques.”
Qasemi plans to expand his research into neurosurgery in the coming weeks.
He obtained this position through Operation White Coat—a program developed by ROTC Cadet Command leadership for pre-med cadets interested in military medicine—and noted that similar opportunities exist for others via Walter Reed’s Student Clinical Observer Opportunities Program (SCOOP). SCOOP provides students exposure to clinical environments within military healthcare systems.
Qasemi encouraged peers considering similar paths: “My advice to other students is this: the experience is what you make of it. While much of the observership is focused on shadowing and observation, there’s significant potential to go beyond that by asking thoughtful questions, expressing genuine interest, and seeking out additional opportunities such as research or interdisciplinary learning. Whether in a military or civilian setting, don’t be afraid to take initiative. Be curious, be persistent, and remember that there are always incredible people around you who are willing to teach and support your growth if you show you are eager to learn.”
He reflected on learning clinical terminology: “One of the skills I’m most excited to continue developing is my ability to understand and engage in clinical conversations… At first… was all initially overwhelming. But by asking questions, taking notes, and reviewing materials afterward I’ve started to feel more fluent in that clinical language.”
Qasemi highlighted networking benefits at Walter Reed: “I’ve been learning from exceptional healthcare professionals—physicians who set a high bar not only for technical expertise but also for professionalism compassion and leadership… The caliber of care and sense of purpose here are unmatched…”
Sharing this experience with his brother Ethan was another benefit: they supported each other during their time at Walter Reed while exploring Washington D.C.’s landmarks together on weekends.
Looking ahead Qasemi aims for a career as a military physician with aspirations also toward public policy or healthcare legislation impacting patient care systems nationally.
