Using Kinesiology to Provide The Best Surgical Treatment

I used to work as a waitress. Whenever I made a mistake, my manager would remind me, “Look, we’re not saving lives here.” While this was true, it always made me reflect on my passion for medicine. As a child, I frequently visited doctors for ear infections, and my mother continually encouraged me to strive for excellence. It was this combination of experiences that led me to envision a future in medicine. My fascination with the human body and my penchant for dismantling and reassembling objects indicated to my family that I was destined for something significant. I am committed to pursuing a career in surgery, and I have been on this path since I made that decision.

Discovering My Specialty Through Personal Experience

Until my sophomore year of high school, I was uncertain about which specialty I wanted to pursue. However, that summer, after overtraining as a cross-country runner, I suffered a tibial stress fracture. During my recovery, I had the fortune of meeting an orthopedic surgeon who has been a pivotal figure in my medical journey. He has treated me through multiple injuries, including a rib fracture from rowing and a hip reconstruction. Each time I visited him, I found myself increasingly intrigued by his practice, which fueled my desire to delve into orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. Consequently, I decided to pursue Kinesiology, starting this fall, as it aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience

My initial semesters in college have been successful, despite facing unforeseen challenges. I dealt with mononucleosis, major hip surgery, a broken rib, my parents' divorce, and hypoglycemia, all of which necessitated reevaluating my academic goals. I often questioned whether I truly wanted to commit to years of study, especially in such a demanding field. Yet, I cannot envision myself doing anything else in my twenties. Each setback has unveiled new opportunities for personal growth, teaching me to persist in the face of adversity.

For instance, my career as a collegiate rower was interrupted by my hip surgery this summer, but it provided me with the chance to take on a leadership role as a volunteer coach for the team. While I am recovering, I can still contribute to my teammates’ development. I aim to rehabilitate myself and return to rowing stronger than ever by December. This experience has shown me that I possess the determination to overcome obstacles, and I wake up each day motivated not just to improve myself but also to inspire others to reach their potential.

Seizing Opportunities Through Adversity

Had I been able to train this semester, I would have missed a crucial presentation by the head admissions director of Harvard Medical School and Senior Physician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Following the seminar, I established communication with him, leading to an exciting opportunity to shadow him in Boston this summer. Although I am disappointed about not being able to train with my team, I have discovered numerous opportunities that arise when one remains dedicated to success.

Future Aspirations: A Roadmap to Medical School

This year, I have realized the grit required to gain admission to medical school. Only the most resilient students will succeed. I intend to prioritize my academics while allowing for time lost due to unexpected events. In two years, I envision myself beginning my senior year of college. By that time, I hope to have performed well on the MCAT, applied to medical school, and be awaiting interview invitations. I aim to maintain my stamina, as I recognize that senior year is as critical as any other.

Five years from now, at 24, I expect to be in my third year of medical school, starting my first year of clinical rotations. While many students do not enter medical college until later, I am focused on entering medical school right after graduation. My dream is to attend Washington University in St. Louis, though I am also considering schools in California, Colorado, and Boston, as I do not plan to remain in Pennsylvania for my medical education.

Long-Term Vision: Balancing Personal Life and Professional Demands

In ten years, as I approach 30, I anticipate being in my final year of surgical residency. I have avoided thinking too far ahead, recognizing that achieving this goal requires significant success along the way. I often contemplate the personal implications of such a demanding education and career path. Questions arise regarding my ability to handle the weight of life-and-death situations, manage stress, maintain relationships, and pursue personal passions.

• How will I cope with the inevitability of death in my profession?
• Can I make rational decisions after extended periods without sleep?
• How do I balance my career with family life and personal interests?
• Will I have time for hobbies like running, rowing, or horseback riding?

Despite contemplating less stressful alternatives within healthcare, I cannot envision myself in any role other than one that involves saving and improving lives. I thrive under pressure, excel in leadership roles, and maintain composure in challenging situations. My passion for medicine drives my ambition, and I am confident that Kinesiology will equip me with the necessary skills to achieve my goals.

Conclusion

As I move forward on this journey, I remain committed to using Kinesiology as a foundation for providing the best surgical treatment possible. With each step I take, I am motivated by the potential to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, and I am eager to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.

References:

• American Kinesiology Association. (2023). Kinesiology: The Science of Human Movement.
• National Institutes of Health. (2023). The Role of Kinesiology in Sports Medicine.
• American Medical Association. (2023). Preparing for Medical School: A Guide for Students.