Hometown: Miramar, FL
Name of Undergraduate Institution: Florida A&M University
Major(s)/Minor(s) in College: Molecular & Cellular Biology
Name of Medical School: Howard University College of Medicine
Favorite Quote: “Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery, but Today is a Gift, that's why it's called the Present.” – Master Oogway, Kung Fu Panda
Contact Information: Email – janelle94372@yahoo.com
Where are you currently at in your career path and why did you decide to pursue this career path?
Currently, I am a second year at the Howard University College of Medicine. I always wanted to be a doctor and every time the “What do you want to be when you grow up” question came up, my response was always a doctor (specifically a pediatrician but that’s now up for debate). I guess my perspective is unique in that I never thought becoming a doctor was out of reach. Since I was five, I knew I could and would become one.
If you could go back and have a chat with your naïve college freshman self, what would you tell her?
If I could go back to FAMU and chat with my freshman self, I would say explore the city more. Make every effort to enjoy where you are and who you are around. The time goes by quickly and before you know it, the time in that city will be over.
What is your favorite thing about your medical school?
My favorite thing about Howard is my class. My classmates are awesome! We truly care about each other and have facilitated a family environment where we support each other. We want each other to succeed and make efforts to see that happen.
What advice would you give to someone getting ready to start their application process to medical schools?
My advice is to enjoy every step of the process no matter how frustrating it may feel in the moment. The process is hard but it’s not as hard as you think so show yourself grace, stay calm, and appreciate everything you’ll learn.
How have you been able to deal with your romantic relationship and medical school at the same time?
Since before I started medical school, I had been communicating with the man I am now in a relationship with. We already had a talking schedule in place before we started dating, which kind of carried over into our relationship. We are in a long distance relationship so while the distance is challenging, it is also helpful. We schedule time to video chat a few days a week and communicate throughout the week via texting and Facebook (thank God for social media!). I am also blessed by the fact that he is AMAZING and encourages me to do well in school. If I can’t talk to him because I need to study and focus, he is more than understanding and supportive. So while it isn’t easy, I am a firm believer that you make time and energy for what you want to do so I make my relationship with him a priority.
What did you do during the summer before you started medical school?
The summer before I started medical school was honestly one of the best summers of my life. Once I moved back home from Tallahassee (I graduated from undergrad in Spring 2015 and went straight into medical school that July), I connected with some amazing people and got to experience different parts of South Florida from a new perspective. The best part of my summer, however, was going to a Christian conference in New Jersey a week before I moved to DC. It was at that conference that I truly committed to Jesus Christ, repented of my sin and was baptized. Making Jesus my Lord and Savior and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit has by far been the BEST decision I have ever made and will ever make in my life.
Who are some of your favorite musicians? Favorite books? Shows? Movies?
I go through phases in terms of favorite musicians but for sure one of my All-time favorites is the Isley Brothers. Their sound is just distinct and perfect! As far as current favorites, I’m loving Christon Gray, Chance the Rapper and Kendrick Lamar. I’m pretty easy to please so I enjoy many books, shows and movies with no particular standouts at the moment.
Thank you SO much for your words of wisdom Alana! They are much appreciated!
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Posted on October 27th, 2016