What drew you to the field of medicine?

My journey toward medicine began with a curiosity about healthcare, but it was through hands-on experiences that I truly discovered what drew me to the field. In my junior year of high school, I joined the Lexington Medical Center Partners Program. On my first day, a patient with chest pain needed a blood draw but was terrified of needles. Sensing her fear, I started a lighthearted conversation to distract her. She shared that her niece — who was scared of blood — was taking phlebotomy classes, and we laughed at the irony. This connection eased her anxiety, and when the nurse finished, she asked, “When is the needle going in?” She hadn’t even noticed the procedure was over. As she walked out smiling and thanking me, I felt an overwhelming sense of fulfillment. I had helped ease her fear and made a genuine connection. In that moment, everything clicked: what draws me to medicine isn’t just the technical skill of treating illness, but the chance to support patients in their most vulnerable moments. I want to be the kind of physician who not only cures ailments but also ensures patients feel seen, heard, and comforted. That opportunity — to bring both relief and reassurance — fuels my passion for medicine.

What are your plans after attending medical school?

After medical school, I hope to enter a residency in a field of medicine that is heavily procedural. I am especially interested in specialties such as dermatology or otolaryngology, as I enjoy the precision and hands-on nature of procedural work. But I am still open to exploring different specialties as I continue to grow and learn more. Ultimately, my goal is to find a field where I can combine technical skill with meaningful patient interactions, providing care that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of my patients.