THE POWER OF THE DECISION
captivated me because it allowed me to enter a world where my mind could serve as the primary instrument of discovery and restoration . Furthermore , in medicine , physicians generally trust the patient to guide and shift the focus of care ; however , when the illness limits the patient ’ s understanding of reality , as is oftentimes the case in psychiatry , physicians must grapple with how much of that burden to take on themselves . In a professional sense , I found this gap to be an interesting space to occupy due to the additional responsibility it entailed . Finally , the prospect of having a true work-life balance in psychiatry , which is less time-intensive than some other specialties , also appealed to me , as my hobbies outside of medicine are highly important to me . I believe outside interests are essential to being a good physician , especially a good psychiatrist , and allow us to establish more meaningful connections with patients .
With these thoughts in mind , I began my clinical clerkships while striving to keep an open mind . During each four- , six- or eight-week rotation , I made an effort to demonstrate my best capabilities to determine if it was a career path I wanted to pursue . Furthermore , I made deliberate efforts to engage with professionals in each discipline , realizing that mentors act as guides through the maze of medical specialties . This proactive interaction with mentors turned into a vital part of my research , providing me with insights that went beyond the job descriptions .
Based on my initial reflections , I was prepared to dismiss all specialties aside from psychiatry . Time and time again , however , I fell in love with each specialty I was introduced to and was provided insights by mentors applicable to both my career in medicine and life beyond it . On my OB-GYN rotation , Dr . Francis gave me relationship advice that will last me a lifetime . In child neurology , Dr . Marshall taught me to be not only a great physician but also a good one . During my surgical clerkship , I developed personal connections with both Drs . Rao and Dodds , who encouraged me to give surgery serious thought . Nonetheless , my interactions with Drs . Wood , Kayalil and Hackman — three psychiatrists who have fueled my curiosity in the field — have had the biggest impact on me . They have not only confirmed my passion for psychiatry but also given invaluable advice on how to interact with patients , insight into working dynamics with colleagues and opportunities to be aware of during residency . All of this I will hold close and plan to implement in my future professional endeavors . self-exploration have great significance . Prior to clinical rotations , I took the time to carefully consider my professional priorities . This gave me clarity and helped me to recognize that , although important , this choice is flexible and changes with experience . Psychiatry proved to be a shining example of a profession that reflected my ideals , providing a varied patient base , a potential work-life equilibrium and a way for me to use my skills . Nonetheless , it is impossible to exaggerate the crucial role mentors play in a variety of specializations . Their advice , insight and interpersonal relationships have influenced not only my decision but also my philosophy as a potential physician . Each mentor has left a lasting impression on me and taught me countless lessons that go beyond the practice of medicine .
Not only have I selected a specialization for the next chapter in my career , but I ’ ve also brought with me a patchwork of expertise , perspectives and jokes from multiple mentors . Due to a deliberate process and the direction of exceptional mentors , I am confident in my decision to pursue psychiatry . I am thankful for this path of self-discovery and purpose , and I am looking forward to using what I ’ ve learned and experienced to create a meaningful and influential profession in psychiatry where healing , empathy and connection all come together .
Umair Fareed Bhutto is a fourth-year medical student at the University of Louisville School of Medicine .
Looking back , the path that led me to identify my passion within medicine has been a life-changing experience that has included reflection , inquiry and mentoring . As I approach medical school graduation , my contemplations regarding this journey of
January 2024 13