What makes you a Difference Maker?

I honestly was surprised to hear I was nominated this semester, with everything online this past year! I’m really humbled and grateful to have someone nominate me during this season of life. It has been challenging for so many people, and collectively as a society, we have had to grapple with grief, loss, and frustration. There are so many people out there who are difference makers without the capital letters, and I want to acknowledge them as well. During this time, whether it be on-campus or off-campus, I have learned that the smallest acts of kindness and understanding make the greatest impact. I believe what makes me a Difference Maker is my ability to listen to and uplift the people around me. These relationships are where I make a difference. Whether over a zoom meeting with students or with the patients I take care of, I want to create space for voices to be heard.

Tell us about your leadership experience.

I have had the privilege of working alongside nurses and other healthcare professionals taking care of COVID-19 patients in the Metro Detroit area since the beginning of the pandemic. The experience has been humbling and solidified my purpose for going into medicine. I learned that life is too short to take for granted. I’ve learned that little actions count, and even if it seems like you are not making a difference, you are. Strength is not denying the challenges in front of you but acknowledging they are there and still pressing forward. Although the experience is not leadership, I have gained the mindset, fortitude, and faith needed in order to be a better leader in student groups and in the community.

What is your dream career or goal?

My experiences at this university have immeasurably shaped who I am today and who I hope to become tomorrow. My dream career is to be an internal medicine or emergency medicine physician in an underserved urban community. I have seen how clear health inequities are through my experience working in the hospital, and I am devoted to continually learning from and serving these patients. I strive to care for patients with humility, grace, and respect, no matter the circumstances they are in. In addition, I want to work alongside community organizations to strive to improve a community's health through community engagement. To me, there is no greater power than collective power.

What is your most defining moment?

My most defining moment at UM-Dearborn would be facilitating discussions and training Site Leaders for Alternative Breaks as an Education Coordinator. It was amazing to put so much of my heart into teaching others the importance of community engagement, education, and reflection. Some of my most meaningful memories of college were sitting in a circle with other campus leaders reflecting on what service means to us. I watched as students gained the confidence and knowledge to lead others in thoughtful service. My group last spring went to Cincinnati to learn more about homelessness in the city. I saw the pain and frustration that comes with economic hardships or gentrification. I realized there are so many complex systemic issues that influence whether someone has a place to live or not. Especially in an urban setting, I learned that housing and homelessness are life-changing issues. I want to continue to learn about those issues and support policies and organizations that help people. I hope that after the pandemic, Alternative Breaks continues to make its mark on campus!