PRESCRIBING CHANGE
my understanding of advocacy truly transformed into what it is now . During the summer of 2020 , I interned virtually at a think tank in Washington , D . C ., stripped of the allure of a glamorous Pennsylvania Avenue office . This pause forced me to look beyond the traditional realms of advocacy and see its broader , quieter presence . Watching my father , a cardiac anesthesiologist in town , brave the uncertainties of a global pandemic revealed to me another form of advocacy – one grounded not in speeches or policies , but in compassion , courage and a steadfast commitment to others ’ well-being . That summer , I realized advocacy is not confined to podiums or campaign offices ; it is a thread that weaves through every act of care and service , creating ripples of change in ways that are both profound and deeply personal . I quickly saw that being a physician was truly one of the most impactful ways to be an advocate in the community and elected to pivot my career path to the world of medicine . bullying on young students in Kentucky . I was fascinated by the rise of social media and its profound implications on our community . It had the power to touch anyone and everyone , regardless of traditional socioeconomic boundaries . Moreover , it was evidence of an impending wave of change that would produce consequences not adequately being addressed at that moment . That spark grew brighter with Model United Nations , where I had the ability to step into the shoes of foreign diplomats , drafting policy on a global scale and learning to see the world through lenses far removed from my own . I discovered the power of decorum , the art of commanding attention and the beauty of representing every “ constituent ” with the same dignity as those on the grandest debate stages . I found myself yearning for more and , eventually , my love for advocacy found its footing in real life as I worked on a gubernatorial campaign in Louisville , blending idealism with action and bringing my voice to a cause that had very real implications .
These experiences inspired me to pursue a degree in Foreign Affairs at the University of Virginia . Planning to go on to law school , I honed my skills through debate with the Jefferson Society , public policy internships in Charlottesville and Washington , D . C ., and coursework that painted the intricate landscapes of the justice system , diplomacy and politics . I would argue , however , that it was not until the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped our world that
The beauty of medicine can be found in its circuitous web of complex social , political , economic and scientific theories . Each of these components has the ability to influence access to care , health outcomes and overall well-being . Understanding and managing these broader contexts is a cornerstone of being a robust physician who can better serve her patients . This commitment directly aligns with the ethical principles we collectively vowed to uphold on our first day of medical school . Embracing this responsibility will allow physicians to contribute to a health care system that is equitable , compassionate and responsive to the needs of all people .
Shriya Dodwani is a second-year medical student at the University of Louisville School of Medicine and the ULSOM AMA / KMA Chapter President .
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