10 Questions with Marissa Clark, MSN, FNP-C

The lifelong Cape Cod resident brings years of emergency and urgent care experience to her new role as a family nurse practitioner.

Born and raised in Eastham, Marissa Clark, MSN, FNP-C, was first introduced to healthcare about 20 years ago through the certified nursing assistant program at Cape Cod Community College.

“From there, I realized that I enjoyed the field and started working toward becoming a nurse,” said Clark.

Today, she divides her time between Urgent Care in Hyannis and the emergency department at Cape Cod Hospital, where she cares for patients of all ages with a wide range of illnesses and injuries.

“I enjoy the pace and the variety of patients," she said. “I feel like I’m constantly learning new things.” 

Clark began her nursing career in sub-acute and long-term care in Brewster before spending six years in the emergency department at South Shore Hospital. She returned to the Cape and joined Cape Cod Healthcare in 2021, working in Urgent Care, including four years as a clinical lead RN.

After about 14 years as a registered nurse, primarily in emergency and urgent care settings, Clark decided to advance her career and become a family nurse practitioner.

“It felt like the natural next step because it allowed me to build on the nursing experience I already had while expanding my knowledge and scope of practice,” she said.

Clark began the program in 2023 when her daughter, Julie, was 3 years old, while working full time at Urgent Care and raising her as a single parent. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from UMass Boston in December 2025 and recently transitioned into her new role as a family nurse practitioner with Cape Cod Emergency Associates.

For Clark, caring for patients in the community where she grew up is especially meaningful. She feels strongly about helping ensure Cape Cod residents have access to quality care close to home.

“Growing up here, my friends and family are also part of this community,” she said. “I feel proud to be able to care for people right here on Cape Cod.”

We recently caught up with Clark at Urgent Care in Hyannis to learn more about her first job, a surprising former gig, the skill she’d love to master and what makes a perfect day off on Cape Cod.

1. What was your very first job, and is there a lesson from it you still carry with you?

My first job was at Hole in One donut shop in Eastham. I started when I was 14 and worked there for 10 years. I learned so much about how to talk to people. At first, I was a little overwhelmed talking to strangers, but I quickly learned how to feel comfortable with it. 

2. Favorite donut at Hole in One?

Sour cream donut. And despite working at a donut/coffee shop for 10 years, I actually don’t like coffee!

3. If you weren’t working in healthcare, what career do you think you might have pursued?

I think a career in forensic science. 

4. What’s something your coworkers might be surprised to learn about you?

While I was in nursing school, I worked part time as a power tool mechanic, which I really enjoyed! 

5. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received—either professionally or in life? 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This holds true both professionally and personally.

6. Morning person or night owl?

Typically a morning person. I worked the night shift for more than seven years, but my preference is always to go to bed early and get up early.

7. What’s one small thing that always makes your day better?

My daughter sometimes sneaks little notes or drawings into my work bag. When I reach in to grab something and find one, it instantly makes my day better.

8. If you could master one new skill or hobby, what would it be?

Swimming. Despite being born and raised in Eastham, right near the beach, I am a terrible swimmer! I love the beach and being in the water but can barely manage a doggie paddle at times. I would love to instantly master swimming.

9. What’s your favorite Cape Cod season, and why? 

Fall is my favorite. I love the chill in the mornings, but the sun is still warm enough to spend time outside in the garden or paddle boarding during the day. 

10. Perfect day off on Cape Cod — how would you spend it?  

Going for a walk with my daughter and dog, then spending the day in my garden!