What drew you to the field of medicine?
When I was younger, people would often ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up, but I never had a clear answer. Like many kids, I pretended to be a doctor, with my plastic stethoscope in hand, diagnosing my best friends and imagining what it might be like to help others. As I got older, my love for science grew—not just because of the complexity and beauty of the subject, but because of its profound ability to serve people. Volunteering in the ICU and witnessing firsthand the impact physicians had on patients and their families solidified my desire to pursue medicine. Seeing physicians indiscriminately serving marginalized individuals who struggle to gain access to healthcare brought a sense of urgency to this calling. It was then I realized the immense responsibility and privilege that comes with being able to heal and offer hope. Eventually, my passion for science led me to research, where I explored ways to apply scientific knowledge to real-world problems, even publishing a book to make a meaningful contribution. Now, when asked what I want to become, I can confidently say that my journey through curiosity, compassion, and a drive to serve has brought me here—to medicine, where I belong.
What are your plans after attending medical school?
After attending medical school, I plan to continue expanding my awareness of our current healthcare system, with a particular focus on understanding and addressing the disparities within it. During my undergraduate years, I hope to be actively involved in research, healthcare leadership, and studying abroad to broaden my perspective on medicine across different contexts. While I’ve developed an interest in orthopedic surgery, I recognize that I’m still uncertain about which specialty is the right fit for me. I’m excited to gain exposure to various fields during my clinical rotations and believe that through those experiences, combined with the knowledge and insights I’ll gather over time, I will ultimately find clarity in making that decision.