Through promoting STEM related fields at summer camps, visiting local orphanages, and volunteering in elementary classrooms, I found my passion in helping young children. My interests in medicine arose from volunteering for the American Cancer Society to fundraise for childhood cancer research and conducting research on pediatric cancer inequality in East and Southeast Asia. I am eagerly seeking new opportunities for research and would like to continue being an active part of the Duke and larger Durham community during and after my time here.
As a future healthcare professional, I hope to expand my knowledge of the interconnectedness of health and culture to genuinely listen to and meet the needs of diverse patients. My goal is to work towards becoming a nurse practitioner with a specialization in pediatrics and a possible subspecialty in oncology. Although my experiences moving almost every three years have opened my eyes to a range of preconceptions held by others, I’ve grown to understand and appreciate the world’s diversity. What I initially viewed as a hindrance— being biracial and struggling with my identity— I now view as something I can share to help promote inclusion and understanding.
Ultimately, I hope to contribute to increasing health and wellness in our communities, challenge myself to be the best healthcare professional I can, and ensure that no one feels like an outsider when receiving the healthcare they deserve. Outside of the classroom, I love playing tennis, discovering new music, and learning about various cultures. I enthusiastically look forward to all the opportunities for growth and collaboration that Duke and the Cardea Fellowship have to offer in the coming years!
“Being a Cardea Fellow has helped me learn how to acquire the tools necessary to become the best healthcare professional I can be, and ultimately help others regardless of circumstance through medicine. I like how the program strives to encourage connections with other fellows to create a supportive learning community consisting of dedicated individuals with a diverse range of backgrounds and interests. ”
