Spotlight: Zuena Karim – Health Careers Mentorship Program

My name is Zuena Karim, and I am a third-year Biochemistry major and a current intern with HCMP.

Describe a shadowing experience that has impacted you the most:

Shadowing Dr. Shashoua was such an exciting and invaluable experience for me. Dr. Shashoua and the nurse practitioners, Mrs. Monceaux and Mrs. Longshore, did an amazing job teaching me about the field of urogynecology and explaining what they were doing with each patient. Despite my initial nerves, everyone at the clinic was so welcoming and made me feel comfortable asking them any questions I had. Not only was I able to observe a multitude of women’s health procedures up close, but my experience was very interactive as I got to assist with scribing and greeting patients. As someone interested in women’s health, I couldn’t have asked for better early-on exposure to the field!

How has HCMP benefited your professional or individual goals?

HCMP not only gave me the chance to observe various physicians but allowed me to find encouraging and supportive mentors. Each doctor I’ve shadowed has been incredibly kind and took the time to speak with me about my future aspirations while giving me helpful advice. These experiences have been particularly meaningful to me, given the hardships faced by the pandemic. Aside from shadowing, HCMP has provided me with valuable guidance in navigating through the process of applying to medical school and a supportive group of friends.

What has been your favorite aspect of HCMP?

I love how HCMP values forming connections between members, making it easy to bond with others! Since the organization is relatively small and entirely run by students, there is an open space to connect with others and form genuine companions throughout our journeys to becoming physicians. Also, I can reach out to any of the older members or HCMP alums for advice and questions that are career or life-related.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love to spend time with my cats and try to cook new recipes! I am also passionate about creative writing, graphic design, photography, and playing Animal Crossing 🙂