What inspired you to specialize in family medicine?

During my fourth year of medical school, I had the opportunity to do an additional rotation in family medicine, and it was a turning point for me. I was immediately drawn to the wide range of care provided and found myself excited to join this unique group of physicians every day. The residents and attendings were true "jacks of all trades," and I was in awe of their depth of knowledge. It was incredible to witness the profound impact they had on patients—and even entire communities. I could see how deeply invested they were in the well-being of those they served, and I knew then that this was the path I was meant to take. With the wide-reaching influence and meaningful connections family medicine offers, I felt a strong sense of purpose and knew this was where I belonged.

Why did you choose to donate to the Students to FUTURE fund?

I chose to donate to the FUTURE Fund because I firmly believe we must invest in the future of family medicine. This field offers a distinctive and invaluable approach to patient and community care. With the growing demand for primary care and family medicine physicians, supporting this fund is one of the most impactful ways we can contribute to meeting that need. It’s a meaningful way to help shape the future of healthcare.

What advice would you give to a medical student who was interested in becoming a family physician in Maryland?

For a medical student interested in family medicine in Maryland, my advice would be to remember that we are at the forefront of preventive care, not only for individual patients but also for entire communities. Maryland provides a wealth of unique opportunities because of its diversity—offering a wide range of demographics and healthcare environments that will allow you to learn and grow. Additionally, being so close to Washington, D.C., gives you a great chance to get involved in advocacy, fighting for the needs of your patients and communities on a larger scale. One of the most important things to keep in mind is the importance of cultural humility. Take the time to truly immerse yourself in the community you serve, as understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds is key to providing the best care possible.

The Maryland Academy of Family Physicians (MDAFP) also offers a wealth of opportunities for students and residents to get involved. Whether it's through networking, advocacy, or educational events, MDAFP helps connect future family medicine professionals with resources and mentors. It's a great platform to stay engaged with the field, deepen your knowledge, and contribute to the ongoing development of family medicine in Maryland. Being a part of this community can really enhance your journey and open doors for growth and collaboration.