Over the years, I have come to understand the profound impact of representation in healthcare. Growing up without seeing doctors who looked like me, I recognized the sense of isolation it can create for patients who do not see themselves reflected in their caregivers.
Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?
During my time at VCOM, I have been deeply inspired by many people around me鈥攅specially the upperclassmen and faculty who have navigated the challenges of medical school before my peers and me. As a first-generation medical student, it has been incredibly motivating to see how these individuals not only work hard to become the best physicians they can be but also take the time to support and guide students like me. Their willingness to help and share their experiences has taught me that success in this field is about more than just individual achievement; it鈥檚 about lifting others along the way. The Anatomy Lab faculty at SWAG视频has also been a huge inspiration to me. They go above and beyond, spending extra time with us on weekends to help us prepare for exams and ensure we feel supported. Their dedication to our learning and well-being inspires me to become the kind of compassionate and selfless physician I hope to be.
How has the SWAG视频mission inspired you as a medical student?
I quickly learned that VCOM鈥檚 mission is not just a statement on paper; it is something I see lived out every day. From the moment I stepped foot into VCOM, I have witnessed how the school integrates its mission into our daily experiences. We are given numerous opportunities to engage with the community, whether it鈥檚 volunteering at the school鈥檚 free clinics, offering workshops in local communities, working with schools and youth programs, or serving international communities in need by providing care and education to underserved populations abroad. Seeing VCOM鈥檚 hands-on approach and the tangible impact we make on those who need it most inspires me every day as a medical student.
VCOM鈥檚 focus on serving and advocating for underrepresented and underserved populations resonates with me, especially given my background and belief in inclusivity in healthcare. The mission also inspires me personally, as the individuals we serve are no different than my own family, motivating me to ensure healthcare is more accessible and equitable for all.
Who or what inspired you to study medicine?
My desire to study medicine is based on an accumulation of experiences, but it was first sparked seventeen years ago during a visit to a military hospital. While waiting for my appointment, I asked my dad why none of the doctors looked like him or me. That moment marked the beginning of my interest in becoming a doctor who could be a role model for children who look different so they would not have to ask themselves the question I had to ask my dad back then. Over the years, I have come to understand the profound impact of representation in healthcare. Growing up without seeing doctors who looked like me, I recognized the sense of isolation it can create for patients who do not see themselves reflected in their caregivers. This realization led me to volunteer with youth support groups, where I connected with children from underserved backgrounds. Through these interactions, I saw how a positive role model can inspire hope and build trust in a system that often feels inaccessible. These experiences are what ultimately inspired me to study medicine, to become a physician who not only heals but also ensures that every individual, regardless of their background, feels they have someone fighting for their health and well-being.
Why did you choose VCOM?
I chose SWAG视频because from the very beginning, even before I was accepted, it felt like home. The representatives I met during my initial research about SWAG视频gave me a clear sense of the supportive and inclusive environment at the school. Whether I was speaking with current students, faculty, or even the dean, everyone was accessible and genuinely cared about answering my questions. It was clear that they had my best interests at heart, which is exactly what I was looking for in a medical school.
Coming from a big family, I understand the importance of a close-knit, supportive environment. SWAG视频gave me that feeling right away鈥攁 sense of belonging in a "big family" where everyone鈥檚 different personalities are respected and celebrated. It鈥檚 a place where I don鈥檛 feel the need to be someone I鈥檓 not; I can be my true self and still be fully supported. That sense of unity and respect among people with diverse backgrounds and experiences is exactly what I want in a medical school. At VCOM, I felt that everyone truly wants to see you succeed, and that feeling of support is what ultimately made me choose VCOM.
What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?
I really enjoy the small-town feel that Spartanburg offers, which reminds me of my hometown in Germany. The local shops, cafes, and restaurants give the area a unique charm that makes it feel cozy and welcoming. I also love the natural surroundings near VCOM, with plenty of outdoor activities like walking trails that allow me to unwind and take a break from my studies. The downtown area is especially a highlight for me鈥攊t鈥檚 completely walkable, making it a perfect spot for a quick ice cream run with friends, finding great study spots, or even just people-watching. The combination of nature, convenience, and small-town charm makes Spartanburg a wonderful place to live and study.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I love to draw, paint, and do arts and crafts. It鈥檚 a creative outlet that provides me with a great balance to the demanding sciences of medical school, and I always make an effort to tap into my artistic side when I can. I also enjoy staying active by working out with classmates and taking full advantage of the gym and recreational facilities in the area. However, my greatest joy comes from spending time with my family. I always look forward to watching my brother鈥檚 basketball games and catching up with my family, especially during the more intense academic blocks. It is the perfect way to recharge and reconnect during a busy school year.
Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?
While I plan to stay open-minded throughout my journey in medicine and explore various specialties, the one that has sparked my passion the most is surgery. I instantly fell in love with spending countless hours in the anatomy lab, carefully dissecting and studying the human body. The more I learn about its complexities, the more fascinated I become with the idea of using that knowledge to directly help people through surgery. I am drawn to the precision, problem-solving, and immediate impact that surgery offers. And I also love the combination of science, art, and craftsmanship that surgery requires.