Doc for a Day

Scholars sat in a circle, passing around a stethoscope, curious about what they would hear when it reached their ears. Their eyes lit up as they turned to hear their partner’s heartbeat in a mix of curiosity and awe.

Many students at The Preuss School are fascinated by the workings of the human body, and want to save lives. On Friday, Nov. 15, over a dozen juniors and seniors had a chance to chat with physicians who are members of the American Medical Association’s Minority Affairs Section. Donning white coats, they candidly shared their journeys through a minority lens, including their successes, challenges, and lessons learned.

One physician spoke of criticism on the road to medical school, describing how some would say he wasn’t cut out to be a medical doctor. Another encountered discrimination from peers, being named an “affirmative action admit.” Others discussed that the path to medicine can vary—one doctor began her studies at age 35.

Scholars were also asked to share what inspired them to pursue a career in the medical field. Their answers ranged from a positive experience with a surgeon who helped their family, to a desire to save lives. One scholar-athlete shared that his desire to study sports medicine came from his Preuss coach, also a medical doctor, who helped him heal after a knee injury.  

One message was unanimous: we need more people of color, more physicians with cultural knowledge and language diversity treating our communities. The doctors affirmed to students that they are being uniquely prepared to thrive thanks to their education at The Preuss School. They were reminded, “You were created to do amazing things,” and “Don’t let anyone put limitations on your vision.”