Through the Plexiglass: Madeline Crooker
By Katie Fehrenbaker
Courtesy of Madeline Crooker
Tell me about yourself!
My name is Madeline Crooker and I am a member of the Class of 2020 and majored in Global and Public Health Sciences in CALS.
Which testing site(s) do you work at?
I work at all of the testing sites- RPCC, Willard Strait, Bartels, Sage Chapel, ILR Conference Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Collegetown and East Hill Plaza
Why did you choose to become a surveillance tester?
When I applied to be a surveillance tester back in July, I honestly had no idea what I was getting into. I was excited to be a part of a potential solution — and was eager to collaborate with a team of likeminded individuals and come up with the best strategies possible for preventing an outbreak in Ithaca. Being from the area, it is especially important to me that this small, fragile community remains strong and healthy — while allowing students to enjoy themselves and have some sense of normalcy on campus!
What has your experience working at the testing centers been like so far?
As an intake assistant, every single day is different — honestly. Each shift is ever-changing and unpredictable. It is amazing what we as a team are able to accomplish each day with the amount of moving parts and new variables to consider. I’ve come home physically sore and without a voice after shouting through my mask, face shield, and plexiglass each day. Honestly though — it is just fun. I love making people laugh at the horrible jokes we’ve come up with, and interacting with so many people after so much time apart during quarantine. The staff is so caring and kind — everyone looks out for one another.
What do you like to do in your free time? Hobbies? Fun facts? Interests?
I am all over the place — I like to sit with my dogs and do nothing but watch tv, or bake a cake, or solve a New York Times crossword puzzle. Quarantine joys :)
If you could say something to the Cornell community, what would you say?
Be grateful for this time!!! Our entire team is working so hard to ensure that the campus can stay open and everyone can stay healthy in doing so. I had to abruptly say goodbye to my friends in March of my senior year and it was so incredibly hard. Soak up every minute you have now — even though it’s different than you would have expected — you are a part of an incredible institution working hard and making history to keep you safe!!