What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
When I was eleven, I was involved in a severe motor vehicle accident that resulted in a tear in my aorta. During my time in the intensive care unit, I found myself constantly asking the doctors questions about my condition and the treatment process.
What stood out to me was their unwavering patience, enthusiasm, and the way they answered each of my questions with a genuine smile. They not only reassured me but also encouraged me to dream big, telling me that if I was passionate about medicine, I could absolutely become a doctor — nothing was beyond my reach.
Those weeks in the hospital, surrounded by such compassionate and dedicated professionals, marked my first real exposure to the medical field. Since then, the experience has been a driving force behind my desire to pursue a career in medicine.
Why did you choose McGovern Medical School?
I chose McGovern Medical School because of its strong values and supportive community. The students here are genuinely happy and enthusiastic, often sharing with me that this is truly the best place to be. From my interactions with upperclassmen, I’ve felt welcomed and encouraged by their excitement to guide me on my journey through McGovern.
The school’s close-knit, familial atmosphere transforms a large incoming class into a more intimate, personal experience. The faculty and staff are nothing short of amazing. Having already formed connections with my classmates before the start of school, I’m excited to see what the first year holds and how we’ll continue to grow together.
What motivates you?
The driving force behind my motivation is my family. As a first-generation student, I find myself in a world I never envisioned growing up, but it is one that has been shaped by the support and sacrifices of my family. Throughout every challenge and triumph in my academic journey, they have been my constant source of strength and encouragement. Their belief in me has never changed, and it has been their dedication and resilience that continue to inspire me to push forward, regardless of the obstacles.
While I know I could pursue many different paths and still make my family proud, it is the pursuit of higher education — especially in the field of medicine — that has felt like my true calling. The idea of achieving a dream that not only benefits me but also honors the sacrifices my family has made fuels my determination. My family has always been my greatest supporters, continuously encouraging me to reach for what once seemed impossible. To this day, they remain my most passionate motivators, reminding me that no goal is too distant when I have their love and belief behind me.
Who is your hero?
Since the age of eleven, my dad has taken on the immense responsibility of running a single-parent household, raising two energetic and very different children. My sister was active in the high school band, while I dedicated most of my time to athletics. Despite our demanding and often conflicting schedules, he never missed a single event—always cheering us on from the sidelines or the stands.
Starting college was a difficult transition. I attended a school where I didn’t know anyone, and for the first time, I struggled academically. The stress was overwhelming, and I frequently considered switching to an easier major. During those moments of doubt, my dad was always just a phone call away. Whenever I called, saying, “That’s it, I’m changing my major,” he would listen patiently.
A quiet, stoic man, he never said much—but what he did say always mattered. He consistently reminded me not to give up and reassured me that I was capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. Without those moments, I would surely have never made it to McGovern.
What is your ultimate goal for your career in medicine?
One of my greatest passions within medicine is education. As an undergraduate, I dedicated significant time to tutoring and teaching within my research lab as well as at a local middle school where I taught science. These are experiences that deepened my desire to one day educate others in the medical field. Whether through formal academic roles or by empowering patients with knowledge about their own health, I hope to integrate education into my career as a physician.
Medicine is a lifelong journey of learning, and I aim to embody that by sharing what I learn with others. Beyond clinical and patient education, I also hope to inspire the next generation—particularly young people—to pursue their dreams. If, by the end of my career, I’ve inspired even one child to become a doctor, I will consider that a true success.
What kind of emotions do you feel as you’re beginning medical school?
I am nervous but also extremely excited!
What are you looking forward to most about medical school?
Much like my undergraduate experience, I’m entering this next chapter knowing very few people. However, I’m genuinely excited to meet the diverse and inspiring individuals who make up the McGovern community and to hear their unique stories. Everyone I’ve met so far has been incredibly kind, engaging, and a joy to spend time with.
Beyond the social connections, I’m most looking forward to immersing myself in the study of subjects I’ve been passionate about since I was eleven. Being able to finally dedicate my time and energy to learning the foundations of medicine is something I’ve dreamed about for years, and I’m eager to begin that journey.
If you had to pick a medical specialty right now, what would it be and why?
If I had to choose a specialty today, I would be most drawn to either pediatrics or orthopedics. I’m particularly interested in working with young, sports-oriented patients — helping them navigate injuries and recover in a way that allows them to return to the activities they love. As someone who grew up involved in athletics, I understand how deeply tied identity and well-being can be to physical activity, especially during adolescence.
Whether it’s guiding a child through their first sports injury or supporting a teen through a long recovery process, I want to be a physician who not only treats the physical condition but also encourages resilience and confidence. Both fields would allow me to build meaningful, long-term relationships with patients and support them through critical stages of development and recovery.
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