Caren Harris, MSN, CNP

Why is Women’s History Month important to you?

I think it is important to highlight the contributions of women to our society, both large and small.

What do you like most about your job?

The staff and patients I work with. Because of them, getting up and coming to work is easy. I look forward to my interactions with them and our collective ability to impact the wellness of the children I work with.

How can we encourage more women and girls to enter the sciences?

Continue to highlight the successes and achievements of women and we will get to the place where gender is not an issue. Girls today are aware of the many choices available to them because their exposure has been quite different from when I was younger.

What is one piece of advice you would give a woman entering the field of medicine and/or healthcare?

Be passionate about what you do and remember the reason you started on this journey. It will continue to guide your decisions and actions.

Has there been an influential woman in your life who supported or inspired you on your journey into health care/medicine?

My mother, although she does not work in health care, has been a tremendous influence in my life. She is strong with an independent spirit and has demonstrated to me that it is possible to be a survivor.

What advice do you have for women to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

Make it a priority!

What is special about Mass General for Children?

Despite its size, Massachusetts General Hospital and MGfC is a very comfortable place to work. Pediatrics here is a warm, intimate and friendly with amazing colleagues.