My name is Esther Nnali and I am a sophomore Human Development and Family Sciences (BSA) major. Currently, I am an intern with HCMP. I am also a You Can Too Mentor, and a member of the Black Women Wellness Organization, Black Health Professions Organization, Dell Medical School Pre-Health Scholars Program, and Haven here at UT.
Describe a shadowing experience that has impacted you the most:
Attending Dell Medical School’s Grand-Rounds sessions led by different physicians from all around the country was an incredibly impactful experience for me during my first rotation. I would say that the session that has impacted me the most thus far was the Psychiatry session on Health Equity that was conducted by Dr. Steven Starks. From Dr. Starks, I learned about the difficult journey that community advocates and healthcare leaders have passed through to promote improved access to quality mental healthcare services for communities of color, and I also learned a great deal about what health equity actually entails. I was able to not only see the progress that has been made, but to also see the work that still needs to be done to improve our current healthcare system. Attending that session is something that I will never forget!
How has HCMP benefited your professional or individual goals?Â
HCMP has definitely helped to cement my goal to become a physician. Being in the room, even virtually, with experienced physicians as they shared their findings on how to deliver efficient care to at-risk communities really fueled me to keep pursuing this path so that I can someday help serve those communities myself. HCMP also enabled me to learn so much more about what being a healthcare provider actually means, and to understand how important it is to truly value learning new things from every person that I encounter as an aspiring physician. I really appreciate the opportunities that I have had to learn from both my peers and practicing clinicians!
What has been your favorite aspect of HCMP?
It really is the people for me. Everyone in HCMP has such a relaxed and welcoming personality, and they really do just want to share their experiences to help us all reach our goals and succeed. It is super comforting knowing that everyone in this organization is committed to encouraging each other through this long and challenging journey. Even with all of the amazing resources that HCMP provides, the greatest part is definitely the supportive (and hilarious) directors and coordinators that make the organization run as smoothly as it does. What else could you want from an org??
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy hanging out with my friends, mentoring, listening to the same three songs everyday, and watching movies and TV shows in my free time! (By the way, if you haven’t watched ‘Behind her Eyes’ on Netflix, consider this your sign to start it!)