What is your hometown?
I have many places I consider home. I was born in Gary, Indiana, the original home of the famous Jackson family. My family relocated to the south suburbs of Chicago, Illinois when I was five years old. While my formative years were largely in Chicago, having spent my undergraduate and graduate years in New Orleans, Louisiana, I also consider it home.
How or when did you become interested in science and medicine?
One 7th grade science project inspired a passion for science. Each quarter during the 7th grade, we were required to do a "science challenge" project. We were provided a list of materials and requirements for the object that we had to build. I distinctly recall one of those projects was building a truss out of straws, straight pins and thread that could hold our science book. An extra 20 points were awarded for each additional book held; my truss held 4 books. Because my truss was a little lop-sided, I didn't know if was my workmanship or my faith that made it work. Nonetheless, I was excited.
My interest in medicine actually began in the first grade after reading a book about the birthing process. The book appealed to much more than my natural curiosity as a female. It really awakened something spiritual inside of me and I've been fascinated by the subject ever since. Naturally, obstetrics and gynecology continues to be an area of interest for me.
How or why did you choose the UI to attend medical school?
UI is well respected, provides a very collegial environment and truly invests in its students. I considered all three to be medical school imperatives. During my visit it was obvious that UI personnel went out of their way to show all that the school had to offer. I met deans, faculty, staff and students; all of whom were especially friendly and personable. Every question was answered thoroughly. It was obvious that they cared. I continue to feel this way and am glad to be a part of the university.
Is there a teacher, mentor or Carver College of Medicine faculty member who has helped shape your education?
All of the faculty and staff are committed to developing students. However, Cathy Solow has truly been instrumental in shaping my UI experience. Professionally, Cathy has given timely, candid advice to aid in difficult decision making. Personally, when personal hardships have arisen, Cathy has gone beyond her professional call to extend her help in a maternal and humanistic manner. Again, it is the caliber of the staff that sets University of Iowa apart from other institutions.
What kinds of opportunities or advantages does being a medical student at Iowa provide? What about challenges?
Opportunities abound at UI. There are a myriad of research opportunities with mentors who are committed to furthering one's clinical or basic science research understanding. If you are interested in shadowing a physician, all you need to do is ask. Additionally, UI cultivates an environment that supports community service initiatives. UI provides a number of community service opportunities and is receptive to new project ideas. The greatest challenge is choosing which road to take. There is so much to do but not enough time to do it all.
Please describe your professional goals/interests.
Women's healthcare has been my lifelong passion and interest. I'm currently conducting research in the maternal fetal medicine department with Dr. Jerome Yankowitz. I have found high risk obstetrics very interesting and I am excited to see the final outcome of my project. I hope to have the opportunity to do more clinical research in the future. Ultimately, I want to provide women's healthcare for uninsured and underinsured populations.
What are some of your outside interests?
While free time is minimal, I maximize the time by getting together with friends, talking, laughing, eating, and just having fun. Kim, Diane, Ana, and Jennifer and I call this our "FEAST." I also enjoy reading/watching biographies of various celebrities and/or historical figures. I am particularly moved by their challenges and how they overcome them. Lastly, anyone who knows me well knows that I enjoy music and dancing.
Do you participate in any community service/outreach projects? If so, what are they and what have your experiences been?
While I have participated in many community service projects, the service I've most enjoyed performing is assisting other students. Attending medical school is an adjustment and can be quite a tumultuous transition. I have had the opportunity to present workshops on “strategies for medical school” to incoming medical students for the past 2 years. It allows me to teach and encourage others. Also, I have especially enjoyed being a part of various liaison committees for different courses which serve to strengthen the communication between faculty and students. As a former high school teacher, I truly value both things.
Do you have an insight or philosophy that guides you in your work?
I live by three key philosophies. First, I think with the end in mind and seize all opportunities that help with the "end"; after all, small doors often open into large rooms. Next, I believe all things - good or bad - are for my benefit. The more I embrace this the easier it becomes to let go of pain during rough circumstances. Lastly, whatever I am permitted to do, I must do the best job that I can because the work that I do, and the words that I speak or share with others, all reflect who I truly am on the inside. None of these ideas are my own but have been drawn from the Bible. The book of Proverbs is probably my favorite, as it places an emphasis on wisdom.
If you could change one thing about the world (or the world of medicine), what would it be?
This is an interesting question and it challenges me because there are so many things that I would like to change about this world. The one essential thing that I think affects every level of human existence is purpose; irrespective of age, race, background, situation or circumstance. Purpose permits you to be in your rightful place while allowing others to occupy theirs. Moreover, if we know our purpose, then our fears are diminished and the hardships/journey are viewed simply as tools to ensure that ensure that our purpose is manifested.
What one piece of advice you would give to students who are interested in applying to medical school?
I’ve learned so much and feel obliged to pass it on—even though it is more than one piece of advice. Seek out individuals who have endured the process and are willing to advise you about the application process and will continue to support and encourage you during your medical school career. Attending medical school is a large commitment. You want to have as much exposure to the field of medicine early on to ascertain if this is truly what you want. Shadowing physicians and volunteering at hospitals will provide you with the much needed insight about the profession and the lifestyle before entering medical school. Finally, be sure to select an institution that corresponds with your learning style.
What do you see as "the future" of medicine?
Medicine has progressed immensely. We have made strides that man never dreamed possible. Yet there is more ground to cover. The issue of access to healthcare appears to be an abyss that cannot be filled. While the field of genetics has shed a tremendous amount of light on the disease process and stem cell research appears to be promising, the ethical issues surrounding these ground breaking areas of medicine forces us to acknowledge that the secular and sacred cannot be separated. I am certain that there will be even greater discoveries in the future of medicine. This is an exciting time in medicine and yet it is hard to ignore some long standing issues that seem to hover over our success.