A Goodbye from our Co-op Student!

by Britney McNeilly, Northeastern Co-op student

As a Music and Psychology student at Northeastern University, I chose to co-op at Roman Music Therapy Services to gain experience in the field of music therapy. I was interested in learning more about the psychological benefits of music and how it can be used in a clinical setting. Roman Music Therapy Services taught me all this and so much more.

I helped music therapist Kari O’Briant with drop-off program Music Makers, aided Meredith at the Melrose Public Library’s “Rockin’ Babies and Boppin’ Toddlers,” and supported the music therapists at various community music events.  Roman Music Therapy Services provided me with opportunities to observe both individual and group sessions in various settings. To help determine what population I would be most interested in working with, I observed clients on both ends of the age spectrum. I sat in on early childhood Sprouting Melodies classes, an EMARK group for children with disabilities, music therapy groups at a Lynn Middle School, and a nursing home session. With this wide variety of experience, I have been able to see music therapy in action and can now attest to its positive effects.

In addition to my involvement with music therapy, I have been working as an office assistant at the Roman Music Therapy Services center and gift boutique.  My responsibilities included website upkeep, social media maintenance, preparing marketing materials, creating and distributing printed flyers, writing blog posts, and assisting with the electronic newsletter.  My organizational skills and ability to prioritize were greatly improved by this co-op, as were my communication skills. I also became fluent in number of new software programs.

One of my favorite parts of my co-op experience here was the work environment. Because of the healing nature of their profession, the Roman Music Therapy Services staff creates a very pleasant office atmosphere. The music therapists and office manager are very friendly, optimistic people who make working in the office enjoyable. I found that the children and families who come through the center are always smiling, eager to participate in music classes and reap the benefits.

Today is the last day of my co-op.  I will be returning to classes at Northeastern next semester to continue my studies in music and psychology. Overall, this was an incredibly positive experience. It provided me with rich learning opportunities in the fields of business, marketing, and communications and was also a catalyst for personal growth. Meredith Pizzi was a fabulous and nurturing mentor who provided me with feedback and suggestions that I will carry into my school work and future career. My co-op at Roman Music Therapy Services is a great resume builder and was crucial in aiding my transition from college to the working world.  I can definitely see myself pursuing a career in music therapy and hope to rejoin the Roman Music Therapy Services team at some point in the future!