Name: Corinne Mark
Year: 2nd Year
Major: Biochemistry
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Can you describe your co-op? What is the name of it? What are you doing?
I currently work at Living Proof, Inc. in Cambridge, MA as a co-op for the Product Development team! Living Proof is a cosmetic company that specializes in hair products, meaning shampoos, conditioners, styling products, and more! During the day, I am either in the labs or at my desk helping the Product Development team with stability tests, batching, or making prototypes for upcoming products. There is no such thing as a “typical day” at work, which makes it exciting!
Is it strange not being in classes?
It’s a little weird coming home at the end of the day and not having any homework to do, but I’m not complaining! It gives me time to relax, unwind, and do whatever I want (which usually is lying in bed watching Netflix). The only con about working a 9-5 shift everyday is waking up early to commute, so it’s almost like having 8am classes. Although I’m still working on it, I’m slowly becoming a morning person!
Any advice for people going through the co-op process now?
Don’t freak out if you don’t receive an offer in the first couple of weeks. I remember applying to seven co-ops a week, and after three weeks passed with no emails about a job interview (that’s twenty-one co-ops!), I was starting to get really stressed and worried. Given that I was struggling in Orgo 1 last semester whilst finding a job, I literally almost cried at the thought of taking Orgo 2 in Spring 2017. Thankfully, I was asked to come into Living Proof headquarters. The next dayĀ I was offered the job! I was lucky enough to get an offer on my first interview, but if you get a couple of rejections, that’s OK too! I know so many people who didn’t find their co-ops until December or even just a couple of weeks ago. Keep calm and remember that everything happens for a reason.
What would you say are the perks of living on the East Coast now? Disadvantages?
When your parents live on the other side of the country, you receive a lot of freedom and independence. I moved into my first apartment last semester, which meant that I had to get myself together and learn how to clean and cook actual food. I can definitely say that I’m more of an adult, now that I can properly handle myself, my living environment, and my busy schedule. However, with studying away from home comes not seeing my family as often. I only get to spend time with friends from home and family when I go back for break, and even then, time is pretty limited.
Another advantage is Boston itself. I never thought that I would love red brick so much, but the cobblestones take my breath away every time I see the sidewalk or the buildings in the South End. The East Coast is so scenic, and I’m glad to witness it firsthand by studying here! Whenever someone finds out that I’m from California, the first thing they ask is, “How are you adjusting to the cold weather?” and I answer casually, “You know, I just buy a big coat and adjust.” That is a lie. IT’S COLD HERE. SEND HELP (and a knit blanket). Yes, it’s beautiful when it snows but I’m a small person and I need all the warmth I can get, which usually means a long down coat, a bulky scarf, a beanie, thick gloves, and fur-lined boots. All this winter apparel is so expensive that it hurts my bank account!
What are three of your favorite places to go in Boston?
The North End is a great place to go for all lovers of pasta and cannolis. The espresso cannoli from Mike’s Pastry is my personal favorite! I am also a diehard baseball fan, so I love watching games at Fenway Park. I was introduced to fried dough there and have been a changed woman ever since. Last but not least, the New England Aquarium for the penguins! They’re ridiculously cute and will easily put you in a good mood, even if you had a bad day.
What is your favorite song at the moment?
24K Magic by Bruno Mars! It might be typical for me to like a Top 40 pop song, but I will always blast this song if it comes on the radio.
What is your favorite app on your phone? Why?
I don’t think I have a favorite app, but the app I use the most is Snapchat to keep my 100+ streaks!
If you could have any food delivered to you right now what would you want?
Probably guacamole. I can never get sick of it and can easily finish an entire container if you just give me a spoon. No chips needed.
Any good life advice or words of wisdom?
My favorite quote is, “I’d rather bend than break.” Things can get tough, and you’ll have your fair share of rough patches. In the end, don’t lose hope, stay positive, and keep pushing forward!