Name: Claire Zagorski
Major: Anthropology
HCMP Role: Co-Chairperson
Classification: Post-Baccalaureate
Other Associations: UT Medical Reserve Corps, Fun with Chemistry Outreach, Austin Harm Reduction Coalition.
Describe a shadowing experience that has impacted you the most.
Shadowing the endocrinology team at the Paul Bass Clinic was my favorite shadowing experience by far. Endocrine problems can be complex, hard to diagnose and manage, and often take a huge toll on the patients. After all, hormones control everything in our bodies, so if they’re out of whack, you really feel sick. The patients at the Paul Bass Clinic are low-income, uninsured, or on Medicaid or Medicare. Regular visits to an endocrinologist are expensive, so it was hugely important to the patients that they have access to the clinic.
But more than just seeing this important link in the health care chain, I saw exactly the kind of doctor I want to be. The physicians on this team lead a group of residents in addition to providing patient care. But despite juggling these responsibilities, they were unfailingly kind, patient, and compassionate. They patiently taught the residents and myself, taking every available opportunity to explain a tricky concept or give advice, and were exceptionally kind and compassionate with their patients. Not only did they explain every aspect of a patient’s often-complex diagnosis, they went further. They made phone calls to prescription assistance programs, contacted colleagues in other specialties to ask them to take on an uninsured patient, and even worked to find public assistance so a patient could get their refrigerator repaired and keep their medication cold. They tackled any and all issues that came up, and did so cheerfully. It was incredibly inspiring.
How has HCMP benefited your professional or individual goals?
Having a healthcare background, I initially didn’t think that HCMP would really benefit me. I had worked alongside doctors for years, so I felt like I knew all I needed to know. I was definitely wrong. I have been exposed to several different specialties and avenues of healthcare that I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. Because of HCMP, I now have a more nuanced and deepened understanding of the healthcare system and how all of its parts interact. Additionally, because of the professional development workshops HCMP offers throughout the semester, I’ve learned about medical school applications, interviewing, health insurance policy, academic medicine, and more. I feel much more prepared for medical school applications than I would have otherwise.
What has been your favorite aspect of HCMP?
The people! HCMP is a small group of like-minded, motivated, and mature pre-med students who genuinely support each other. We take this very seriously and look for these qualities in applicants. Because of this, my fellow members in HCMP have been true friends – amazing, inspiring, and supportive people. Having a group like this really helps when you’re feeling inadequate under that pre-med pressure! Come for the shadowing, stay for the people.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I write music, watch campy horror movies, do improv comedy (poorly), and spend time with my amazing husband.