Name: Jeffery Chen
Major: Neuroscience
HCMP Role: Intern
Classification: Junior
Other Associations: Health Advocacy Student Coalition, Reading Aces, Surgical Technique and Skills Program, MissionPossible: Big Fish Club
Describe a shadowing experience that has impacted you the most.
When I walked into the Seton Brain and Spine Institute, I was blown away at how nice it was. It looked like the interior of a plush corporate building, with beautiful lights and antique pianos and expensive artwork. But when I walked past all of that into the operating room, that changed. It became more somber and more serious. The neurosurgeon I shadowed that day performed a laminectomy for spinal stenosis, a back problem caused by nerve pressure in the spinal cord. During the operation, I saw how each member of the team worked together, whether it was the nurse, physician assistant, or anesthesiologist. It was a team, and every person was necessary. I learned that each person played a very important role, not just the neurosurgeon himself. My experience made me very excited for the medical field, especially for collaborating with other health care professionals, not just physicians. Afterward, the neurosurgeon invited me to eat lunch with him in the “ever-so-exclusive” physicians only dining hall, and it was incredible to see how open and pleasant all the doctors were. Behind the scenes, they talked about ways to improve care and what they were working on that day. They genuinely care about the smallest details that they work on, showing the maximum attention to their patients’ care. It is that passion about medicine that I hope to embody as a physician.
How has HCMP benefited your professional or individual goals?
HCMP has provided an opportunity for me to explore different areas of medicine, something that would have been very difficult on my own. Being able to go from ophthalmology to plastic surgery in a week is a unique experience that really portrays the diversity of the medical field. As an aspiring physician, one of the challenging aspects is finding a field you’re passionate about. HCMP is that outlet for me.
What has been your favorite aspect of HCMP?
I love the professionalism of HCMP. I know that every member has earned their place within the organization, and we can count on each other to fulfill responsibilities and be accountable. Being able to freely discuss our unique experiences shadowing and talk about the struggles of pre-med life is comforting.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love running and be able to take in the beauty of the world while endorphins are coursing through my body, and I also enjoy playing ultimate frisbee. During my more sedentary times, I enjoy sitting down and watching TV shows. I’m also an avid fan of the NBA and follow basketball pretty religiously. And don’t forget that I’m a YEEZY STAN so if you ever want to discuss Kanye or rap in general, hit me up!