What drew you to the field of medicine?
From an early age, I was captivated by the science of disease transmission, treatment and control. Throughout elementary and middle school, I immersed myself in documentaries in bacterial infections and parasitology and eagerly attended summer programs focused on medicine and epidemiology. However, my passion for medicine became deeply personal when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease during my sophomore year of high school. Though the experience was physically challenging, it sparked a profound curiosity about my condition and a broader interest in human health.
Since then, I have actively sought opportunities to deepen my understanding of medicine through shadowing physicians, volunteering in clinical settings, conducting research, and attending medical conferences. These experiences have solidified my commitment to becoming a physician. Living with Crohn’s has given me a firsthand appreciation for the impact of compassionate, informed care. I am driven to provide that same clarity, comfort and healing to others.
To me, medicine represents the ideal balance of intellectual rigor and humanitarian service. While we have made remarkable advances in understanding the body and treating disease, so much remains unknown, and that sense of possibility excites me. I hope to be part of the next generation of physicians who not only deliver exceptional care but also help push the boundaries of medical knowledge. In my view, improving healthcare means improving lives, not just in length but in quality.
What are your plans after attending medical school?
After medical school, I plan to pursue a residency in pediatrics followed by a fellowship in pediatric gastroenterology. This goal is shaped by my own journey as a patient and by the remarkable specialists who helped guide me. It is also driven by the increasing incidence of early-onset inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal disorders in children. I am committed to contributing to this evolving field through clinical excellence and research that drives meaningful progress.