What inspired you to want to pursue a career in medicine?
After developing an interest in healthcare, I zeroed in on a medical career because of my passion for patient education. I began to develop a love for peer education through tutoring during college, and this passion transformed during my shadowing experiences in rural northeast Texas because these patients face many barriers, including patient education. These shadowing experiences showed me how much time providers put into educating patients on their diseases, treatment protocols, and insurance rights and how those conversations can empower and better equip the patient. I began to see firsthand the critical role education plays in healthcare, which aligned with my passion and skills for peer education that I had developed in college, and that inspired me to choose medicine.
Why did you choose McGovern Medical School?
I was very impressed with McGovern’s interview day, which made me very interested in visiting the school. I was looking for a school that would push me academically and put me into a community that would encourage my success. When I visited for a second look weekend, I found that the students and staff were just as passionate and excited about the school in person as they had been online. I knew that if I wanted to be a part of something that stood for strong academic standards and patient care while maintaining a community that inspired collaboration, McGovern was the place to be.
What motivates you?
Motivation looks different for me depending on what I’m trying to accomplish. I like to keep several things pushing me forward. For instance, I’m intrinsically motivated with medicine to answer a calling that I feel with my life, but I am also motivated by my family and loved ones; I want to make them proud. But when it comes to getting a mundane task or workout done, a good cup of coffee is always the way to go.
Who is your hero?
I’m deeply inspired by my parents, David and Tina Murphy. My dad, a mixed animal veterinarian, has always been a really hard worker and instilled a healthy work ethic in me from an early age. My mom works in agriculture, a very challenging and male-dominated field, yet she never let a challenge slow her down or influence her mindset. Both of them taught me to be strong-willed and chase after my dreams. Their influence on my life is directly responsible for giving me the tools I needed to chase after a challenging career for myself.
What is your ultimate goal for your career in medicine?
I want to be a physician who is known for being someone who listens and takes patients’ concerns seriously. The most memorable providers in my own life were the ones that made my family and I feel respected and heard, and those simple moments have greatly impacted my experience throughout key events in my life. No matter where my career takes me, or what specialty I choose, I want to achieve that reputation with my patients.
What kind of emotions do you feel as you’re beginning medical school?
I am feeling a bit nervous to start my classes and make new friends, but I am also very excited. I feel so thrilled and grateful to be starting this journey that will prepare me for my career, and introduce me to lifelong friends and colleagues. It is a very privileged experience, and despite the nerves, I am hopeful about getting started.
What are you looking forward to most about medical school?
I’m really excited to make connections with future colleagues and professionals. I think I’m really going to enjoy studying and working with people who have a common interest in medicine but come from all different backgrounds. I’m super excited to make friends that push me to be better.
If you had to pick a medical specialty right now, what would it be and why?
If I had to choose a specialty right now, I would choose to go into Obstetrics and Gynecology. I’ve always had an interest and passion for women’s health and reproductive health education, which contributed to my desire to choose medicine as a career. However, I definitely want to keep my mind open going into school.
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