During a year-long shadowing program in 2014 called TAP-MD, I observed various physicians to learn about their practices and gain interest in the medical field. I witnessed first-hand the discontinuity that separated tiers of healthcare and the historic totem pole effect that has created a communication barrier. Thus, I was intensely encouraged to pursue an integrated and harmonious field that both encouraged balance and equality among professionals. My time as a patient care technician in the emergency department of a level I trauma center has only furthered my desire to become a PA. I work with a team of motivated and intelligent individuals that span from technicians to physicians in a high-stress environment, but I see that we are periodically disjointed because some providers discount other professionals as less capable of providing adequate medical care. This division is unwarranted, and I am emboldened to be a PA who listens with an open ear, gives credit where credit is due, and incorporates everyone’s thoughts into the best care plan for patients as …show more content…
One of those practices that I feel is strongly applicable as a future PA is to exceed expectations. This was one of the core values incited at my first job in high school at a local ski resort. This fervor to go beyond the typical requirements has helped me grow into an assertive, hard-working individual. I have carried this practice of exceeding expectations into school, work, and my scholarship-based employment on campus. For the latter, I have diligently served as a community service scholar: learning and teaching about disparities and social issues that impact the Indianapolis community. As a leader, I have addressed social issues, planned, and led campus-wide service events, and initiated conversation to find ways to improve our community. I am delighted to continue to demonstrate leadership and have another opportunity to exceed expectations this coming fall as I teach a cohort of students in the ServiceCorps program how to pilot their own service events and encourage activism around campus. The opportunity as a community service leader has shown me that I am assertive and capable of delegating tasks, even to peers, and esteem to lead by