Nailah Robinson
2028
Woodbury, NJ
Biology
“Do what you love” is a piece of advice that is frequently offered when adults speak with me about the future. But what happens when you love multiple things? Since elementary school, I have engaged in various hobbies: painting, playing instruments, participating in sports, and conducting science experiments. Each of these endeavors is supported by my family, which allows me to practice them all equally. It has also, at times, left me somewhat undecided about a career choice. Do I want to be a professional painter… a musician… a scientist? In asking myself this question, my answer repeatedly is a career in science, specifically the health sciences as a rehabilitation physician.
Perhaps pretending to be a doctor as a toddler with my little plastic medical kit was where my fascination originated. Regardless of what launched my interest, the ambition has yet to disappear. Science continues to fascinate me, as it offers the opportunity to make discoveries. It appeals to my problem-solving skills. Thus, I have participated in medical-based summer programs such as the Rowan MEDacademy. Every week we covered a variety of specialities including cardio-pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and pathology, while also volunteering at our local homeless shelter.
As a daughter and student who has been taught empathy, I have an aspiration to advocate and help others. Biology helped me realize that I could combine my love for science with my goal to aid others by studying the health sciences. In this field I could educate and treat those who are disproportionately affected by certain conditions. I could also build relationships in minority communities and, hopefully, assist in decreasing their distrust of the medical profession. In addition to providing service to individuals, I would be a representative of African American women in healthcare services.
While once unsure what direction I would take on my path to a career, I am confident in my decision to pursue the health sciences. That little girl who loved playing with her science and doctor kits will be able to pursue the reality of helping humans instead of dolls.
“African-American women make up about 2.8% of the physician workforce. With this in mind, as well as the rigorous course load and years of schooling ahead, being a Cardea Fellow helps my career pursuit to seem less intimidating. The fact that I will be surrounded by like-minded individuals who will whole-heartedly support each other is comforting. Cardea Fellows provides hope in that I will be uplifted by my fellow peers, advisors…the entire program to accomplish my goal of pursuing medicine.”