What inspired you to want to pursue a career in medicine?
A lot of my youth was surrounded by healthcare, from on the side of the doctors waiting in nursing stations or clinic rooms while my parents had to stop by the hospital to check on a patient to the side of a patient in medical appointments witnessing the compassionate care of my mother. Naturally, I was intrigued by medicine and was able to more personally explore my interest through volunteering, research, and shadowing experiences throughout high school and college. This past year after I graduated college, I had the opportunity to do a gap year fellowship with Project Horseshoe Farm, a small community health non-profit organization in rural Alabama. Through this organization, I was able to interact directly with the community and address the social determinants of health on an individual level. This taught me so much about the needs of underserved communities and solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine to help address these needs.
Why did you choose McGovern Medical School?
I chose McGovern Medical School because its collaborative and supportive environment stood out to me. The emphasis on teamwork and mutual support among students aligns with my values and aspirations for a positive and enriching medical education. Additionally, being back in my hometown is nice, and I am excited to be surrounded by family and friends starting this new journey.
What motivates you?
What motivates me is the aspiration to earn the trust and reliance of my patients. During my time with Project Horseshoe Farm, I experienced firsthand the challenges of building trust and the profound impact it can have once established. This experience has deeply influenced me, fueling my commitment to becoming a trustworthy and compassionate physician. I am dedicated to learning and growing in order to fully support and help my patients throughout their healthcare journey.
Who is your hero?
This past year in Alabama, my experiences with the Health Partners program have introduced me to a new set of heroes. Working closely with community members who faced significant adversity—such as social isolation, relational dysfunction, and chronic illnesses taught me the profound impact of caring and supportive relationships. Despite their own struggles, these individuals demonstrated remarkable resilience and kindness. They inspire me to embrace resilience and compassion in everything I do.
What is your ultimate goal for your career in medicine?
My ultimate goal in medicine is to drive community-centered change by addressing health disparities on a broader scale. Having worked for a year to help individuals address the disparities related to access to transportation, social services, and medical care during my year of service, I am committed to tackling these issues. Pursuing a dual MD/MPH will enable me to integrate my practical experiences with academic insights into community health. My aim is to develop and implement initiatives, working within interprofessional teams, to address and reduce disparities for underserved populations.
What kind of emotions do you feel as you’re beginning medical school?
As I prepare to begin medical school, I feel a mix of nervousness and excitement. The journey to medical school has been a significant focus of my life, so starting medical school is incredibly exciting. At the same time, I recognize the profound responsibility and privilege involved in earning the trust of patients and being entrusted with their care, which makes me a bit anxious. However, I am confident that the next four years will thoroughly prepare me for this responsibility and help me grow into the physician I aspire to be.
What are you looking forward to most about medical school?
I am most excited about meeting my fellow classmates and starting courses that delve deeply into the human body, a subject I find incredibly fascinating. Having spent this year in Alabama, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that a small number of dedicated health professionals had on our rural community. Their work inspired me, and I am eager to gain the knowledge and skills that can make a similar positive difference in people’s lives.
If you had to pick a medical specialty right now, what would it be and why?
If I had to choose a medical specialty right now, it would be internal medicine with a focus in primary care. My experience with Project Horseshoe Farm highlighted the value of building long-term relationships with patients. I saw firsthand how consistent follow-up and regular interactions provide a holistic view of patients, allowing for more comprehensive care and effective management of health disparities. I am passionate about making enduring relationships with patients to enhance their overall quality of life and address their needs more effectively.
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