To start, would you mind introducing yourself, where you currently are in your medical training, and the areas of health that interest you most?

I'm currently a 4th year medical student interested in becoming a family physician. My favorite subjects in the medical school classroom were cardiology (heart), nephrology (kidneys) endocrinology (hormones), and the musculoskeletal system. Part of the reason I chose family medicine is because I loved so many different specialties that I chose a path with lots of breadth. I got to explore family medicine during a 3rd year rotation and absolutely loved it. Within family medicine, I'm specifically passionate about preventative medicine, patient education, and public health.

Thinking back, what first made you interested in becoming a doctor?

When I was in 8th grade, I remember taking a biology class where I learned about fats, proteins and carbohydrates. That was a special moment for me because it was the first time I saw how science could have such a tangible impact on people's lives. When I was in college, I took a class about Alzheimer's where we learned about the disease from a biochemical perspective and also got to speak to patients and their families directly about their experiences. Over time, I realized medicine was a fascinating bridge between seemingly abstract science and care for people's lives.

You studied both biology and music at Dartmouth. Why did you choose those two very different fields, and what did each contribute to you?

It would be dishonest for me to say that I became a music major because I saw a synergy between biology/medicine and music. In truth, I believe everyone should have passions even if they are outside of their primary career path. That being said, I often think about the overlap between music and medicine. Being a music major has taught me how to be a team player--whether it be taking direct instruction from my conductor or teacher, collaborating equally with colleagues in small group ensembles, or being a section leader--these are all crucial skills for such a collaborative field like medicine. It's also taught me how to succeed under pressure, which has definitely been useful during the rigors of medical training.

After graduating from Dartmouth, you worked with refugees and immigrant communities before beginning medical school. Why did you choose to spend that period volunteering, and what impact did it have on you?

When I was in college, I developed a passion for global health thanks to some volunteer work abroad. This passion gradually evolved into an interest in immigrant health because of the rich diversity from around the world within our own country. As a child of immigrants, I have often felt that immigrant and refugee issues are often overlooked, even though these communities are well immersed within our country. I wanted to learn more about these issues and how to best support them.

How did you decide to apply to medical school, and were there moments when you questioned whether it was the right choice?

Applying to medical school was a natural decision for me; it's the perfect blend of science and the humanities. I have loved every moment and have never legitimately questioned that it was the right choice. I do think it takes a lot of sacrifice--I've missed family events, weddings, and holidays because I'm working in the hospital.

What does a typical day look like for you now, and how do you balance clinical training, studying, research, residency preparation, and responsibilities outside medicine?

I currently work about 10-12 hours a day, 6 days a week. I see patients in the morning, discuss them with my medical team, and help with tasks to care for the patient. The best way to keep up with other responsibilities is to space them out while staying consistent--study a little bit every night, working on research maybe once a week, prepare for residency each weekend, etc. It's grueling but it's what it takes to be a good doctor in the future.

What is one realistic step a high school student could take to explore medicine or public health?

I'll be honest and say it's hard to explore medicine/public health as a high schooler because most opportunities require students to be over 18. I certainly don't recommend medical TV shows. However, the good news is that there's tons of time and opportunities when you are in college--shadowing doctors, volunteering at hospitals, student organizations for pre-meds. For a high schooler, I would recommend keeping up with your studies and developing good study strategies and habits. That will serve you the best in the long run.