From her earliest days at Northeastern University, Susanna Ovsepian was motivated by a desire to make an impact. Now, as a selected undergraduate student speaker for the 2026 College of Science Celebration, she reflects on a journey defined by resilience, balance, and a deep commitment to others.
“Being selected as a COS Undergraduate Student Speaker is incredibly meaningful to me,” Ovsepian says. “It feels like a reflection of not just my own journey, but the people and experiences that shaped me along the way.”
Looking ahead to the ceremony, she sees the moment as an opportunity to represent not only her own experience, but the collective journey of her class.
Growing Through Challenge and Change
Throughout her time at Northeastern, Ovsepian experienced growth both inside and outside the classroom.
“I’ve become more confident in myself, more resilient when things didn’t go as planned, and more certain about the kind of person I want to be,” she says.
Through demanding coursework, co-op experiences, and campus involvement, she developed adaptability and a strong sense of curiosity, qualities that will continue to guide her beyond graduation.
Finding Strength in Balance
Ovsepian points to her ability to manage multiple responsibilities as one of her proudest accomplishments.
Balancing academics, work, volunteering, extracurriculars, friendships, and family commitments was not always easy.
“There were moments when I was not sure how I would manage it all,” she says. “But I am proud that I never let any one part of my life fall away completely.”
That experience reshaped her understanding of success.
“Balance is not about perfection,” she explains. “It is about showing up consistently, even when it is hard.”
A Defining Clinical Experience
One of the most transformative moments of Ovsepian’s journey came during her co-op in interventional radiology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
“Stepping into a clinical environment and being trusted to contribute in a meaningful way was both humbling and deeply rewarding,” she says.
Working directly with patients solidified her passion for medicine and pushed her beyond her comfort zone.
“That experience confirmed that I am on the right path,” she adds. “I came out of it more confident and more driven.”
Community and Connection
Many of Ovsepian’s most meaningful experiences were shaped by the communities she found on campus.
She recalls her time as vice president of the Armenian Students’ Association as especially impactful.
“Planning cultural events and celebrating traditions with people who share such an important part of my identity gave me a real sense of home,” she says.
As graduation approaches, it is the people she will miss most.
“My friends, mentors, professors, and patients have all had such a big impact on me,” she says. “That is something I will carry with me long after graduation.”
Continuing a Path in Medicine
After graduation, Ovsepian will be heading to medical school, continuing the path she strengthened during her time at Northeastern.
Looking back, her advice is rooted in perspective.
“Trust the process and don’t compare your journey to anyone else,” she says. “Growth comes from exploring, making mistakes, and learning from them.”
For Ovsepian, that mindset has shaped not only her college experience, but the future she is now stepping into.
