INFLUENCERS IN MEDICINE
way . She was this glue in our family that kept our health balanced and sound amongst all the commotion .
Ultimately , her practice and her natural way of caring for others was this picturesque professional model that I aspired to be as a pre-medical student . Not only did she set this incredible example of how a physician should act , but she supported me throughout the entirety of the matriculation process . She was always someone I could turn to for advice , turn to for encouragement and kept me moving forward even when I got knocked down . There were times where I thought my dreams were silly , were unachievable . Dr . P disagreed . Looking back , I can ’ t help but recognize her unique way of mentoring me : her compassion and dedication to my success was most definitely evident , but she also challenged me to critically evaluate my circumstances so that I could move forward as a better person , as someone more equipped to become a physician . Just like during her time as my doctor , she was selflessly concerned about my well-being and was willing to go above and beyond to help me achieve my goals . I honestly don ’ t think I would be where I am without her support .
Her wisdom , exemplary attitude and pure-hearted nature continue to encourage me , especially as a clinical student . I do my best to replicate Dr . P ’ s communication styles each time I meet new patients throughout my third-year clerkships . I fondly remember how Dr . P made the best entrances into the patient exam room . Although I can still be a bit clumsy in this realm , I try to get a little better each day in her honor . She so effortlessly articulates medical complexities , which is another skill I am continuously working on during hospital shifts . When I have a hard day or when I can ’ t seem to understand a new concept , I think of Dr . P ’ s resilience and dedication to her patients , her family , her community , and embrace this remarkable energy of hers when I am feeling down . Now , more so than ever , I admire her flexibility as a physician . Her expertise is not limited to the clinic — she has taught within the medical school , contributes to academic pursuits and is an advocate for patients at the legislative level . The research projects and leadership roles I have embraced as a medical student are an attempt to follow in these footsteps . Thanks to Dr . P , I have a profound appreciation for the widespread impact physicians can make at both individual and institutional levels .
Today , what I once thought would never be possible is now my reality . My medical journey , like many others , has been a whirlwind . Throughout my three years I have met a wide range of classmates , professors , administrators , residents and attendings who have all challenged me to grow as a student doctor . They have encouraged me to imagine the type of physician I wish to be . Most of these experiences have been overwhelmingly positive — I have experienced first-hand the compassionate care that makes the University of Louisville School of Medicine community truly one of a kind . The passion these individuals have for learning and teaching , for evidence-based medicine and for promoting each other is obvious . However , I always find myself comparing them to who has been one of the most transformative role models in my life : Dr . P . In my mind , she is what all current and future physicians should strive to be . She acts in the best interest of her patients . She is a lifelong learner and teacher that strives to move medicine forward . And , most importantly , she never fails to put others above herself .
I will forever be indebted to the many sacrifices Dr . P has made to prepare herself to provide unparalleled health care and guidance to those in need . Dr . P is beyond my influencer in medicine . Whatever specialty I decide to pursue , I hope to one day leave a fraction of the impact that she has left on me . If I can somehow accomplish that , then all this hard work will be worth it .
Andrew Willett is a third-year medical student at University of Louisville School of Medicine and the Class of 2024 ’ s representative on the Educational Program Committee .
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