What is your hometown?
I was born and raised in Jerusalem, Israel. I graduated from high school and earned my pharmacy degree there. I later moved to Des Moines, IA before attending the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.
How or when did you become interested in science and medicine?
Before I applied to pharmacy school my main motivation was to do something with my life that would help make the world a better place. After my work experience in pharmacy I realized that I wanted a more "hands-on" approach to helping my patients, through their treatment, support and decisions.
How or why did you choose the UI to attend medical school?
I visited the CCOM while I was still a prospective student and I was fascinated by the advanced campus and hospital. The friendliness and approachability of the faculty was amazing, and they gave me the impression that they were there to help me develop as a scientist and as a physician. I am honored to say that no matter what experience and knowledge gaps exist between me and the faculty, each member of the teaching team is willing to help me bridge those gaps and already regards me as a colleague.
Is there a teacher, mentor or Carver College of Medicine faculty member who has helped shape your education?
Virginia Woodard has been a huge support figure for myself and for very many of my classmates. Just knowing that she's there ready to listen and help, gives the medical campus a sense of home. She offers a sense of calm that really helps me focus my energy on my education, she's always there to help remind us of the bigger picture, and she demonstrates to us that the greatest trait a human being can possess is compassion.
What kinds of opportunities or advantages does being a medical student at Iowa provide?
Being a student at CCOM definitely provides me with huge advantages. The resources I have access to, the level and professionalism of the faculty and of course the other students who always help motivate and bring the best out of me. I feel as if the case-based curriculum allows us to develop proper thinking processes as future physicians, and teaches us how to tackle problems, both as members of a team and as individuals. It is the application of this knowledge that will make us great physicians.
Please describe your professional goals and interests?
I am interested in surgery because I really like working with my hands, and it provides a great “hands-on” experience for treating patients. I have been lucky enough to be n observer in the O.R. several times even though I am still a first year student. I can truly say that I love the energies of pressure and satisfaction I felt while observing in the O.R. I also enjoy participating in research because it helps me to stay current with the medical field and on the front line of knowledge and new discoveries.
What are some of your outside interests?
I enjoy playing soccer. As a child and teenager it was my dream to become a soccer player. Up until that point I hadn't encountered anything that allowed me to progress through such a range of emotion and expression.
Do you participate in any community service/outreach projects? If so, what are they and what have your experiences been?
Through my participation in the Mobile Clinic, I feel that we are helping people who are in immense need of proper healthcare. The mobile clinic allows students and faculty to reach out and serve their local community. This has also opened my eyes to how many people actually do need proper healthcare and are lacking of it. Because of this, I was inspired to run for a position in AMSA (American Medical Student Association). I currently serve as Vice President in AMSA and I hope to raise awareness about the many health disparities that exist today (both in the US and globally).
Do you have an insight or philosophy that guides you in your work?
I was raised by my parents to believe that hard work and commitment can help you overcome all the obstacles in your path. They provided me with a perfect example to learn from and apply to my own life. I was taught to always try my best no matter how hard the situation was, and to never quit until all possibilities are expended. My goal in life is to be able to leave the world a better place than it was when I entered it, and everything I do tends to revolve around that belief.
If you could change one thing about the world (or the world of medicine), what would it be?"
If I could change one thing in the world in general, and the world of medicine specifically, it would be ensuring equality to all people regarding race, religion, creed or financial capability. I feel very strongly about the large number of uninsured people and the reasons for their lack of insurance. I feel that as human beings and healthcare workers it is our obligation to ensure that social justice is upheld and that we are not blinded by all the distractions and temptations we may encounter in our lives.
What one piece of advice you would give to students who are interested in applying to medical school?
Before applying to medical school I would really recommend that all prospective students ask themselves why it is they want to be doctors. The sacrifices we have to make along the way are worthwhile if we truly believe in what we are doing. It is crucial to remember that this profession, as prestigious as it may be, is first and foremost about our patients and how we can best serve their needs. Everything else that comes with it should only be considered a bonus.
What do you see as "the future" of medicine?
The future of medicine is very exciting, we are privileged to be practicing medicine in a time where technological advances are providing us with more and more useful tools everyday. We are definitely advancing both in diagnoses and treatment options for various diseases. However, I wish there was more of an emphasis on prevention of diseases.