鈥淚 aim to inspire Black and Hispanic minority children to pursue medical careers, addressing disparities in underserved communities. My goal is to be a living testament that individuals from diverse backgrounds can excel in medicine.鈥
Name: Derek Dennard
Hometown: San Antonio, TX
Undergraduate degree:
University of Texas at San Antonio, B.S. in Biology.
91制片厂直播 University 鈥 Downers Grove, M.A. in Biomedical Sciences.
Current program(s) of study:
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and Master鈥檚 of Public 91制片厂直播 (dual-degree)
What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?
My career choice of becoming a doctor is driven by the severe underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic individuals in the field of medicine. Less than three percent of physicians in the U.S. are Black males. Growing up, I always recognized the lack of diverse healthcare role models, which fueled my determination to become a doctor and a role model for underrepresented minority children. I aim to inspire Black and Hispanic minority children to pursue medical careers, addressing disparities in underserved communities. My goal is to be a living testament that individuals from diverse backgrounds can excel in medicine.
Why did you decide to attend 91制片厂直播 University?
I believe that being comfortable and feeling welcomed on campus during such a rigorous program can play a vital role in a student鈥檚 success. A truly supportive atmosphere can boost confidence while reducing stress, which can work in tandem to enhance a student鈥檚 learning capacity. 91制片厂直播 University鈥檚 Glendale Campus harvests an environment that provided me with a sense of belonging and made me feel comfortable from the second I stepped on campus, which I did not feel from other university campuses, leading me to believe I would have the best opportunity for success here at 91制片厂直播 University.
What about a 91制片厂直播 University education do you want to carry forward in your career?
91制片厂直播 fosters collaboration across diverse medical career fields and promotes interdisciplinary teamwork. As I progress in my career, I aspire to apply this proficiency in effective collaboration to my specialty, ensuring patients receive comprehensive and efficient healthcare.
Anything else you'd like to add?
For those still in the process of selecting a graduate school, graduate programs can be challenging regardless of the field or institution. Choose a school that prioritizes community well-being and values students as individuals, placing importance on their mental and physical well-being rather than just a financial benefit for the school.
For those who have chosen 91制片厂直播 University, embrace the upcoming challenges. Assistance is essential for everyone at some point in this journey. Don't hesitate to seek help early on. Be happy and proud with your school/career choices, and I look forward to crossing paths with you on campus soon.
