- Please provide a brief description of your STEP Signature Project. Write two or three sentences describing the main activities your STEP Signature Project entailed.
My STEP Signature Project involved completing an internship at Dr. Segaram’s internal medicine practice. My role included greeting patients, collecting essential information such as weight and temperature, and updating the physician before consultations. Additionally, I served as a scribe during patient interactions, managed data entry, ordered medications, assisted with blood collection, and supported the doctor with other various tasks.
- What about your understanding of yourself, your assumptions, or your view of the world changed/transformed while completing your STEP Signature Project? Write one or two paragraphs to describe the change or transformation that took place.
Completing my STEP Signature Project significantly deepened my understanding of myself and my career aspirations. Interacting with patients and observing their diverse needs reinforced my desire to become a physician. This hands-on experience allowed me to see firsthand the impact I can have on patients’ lives, solidifying my commitment to pursuing a medical career. Additionally, it provided a clear picture of the skills required in internal medicine, a field that I now find particularly compelling. The internship also highlighted areas for personal growth, particularly in patient interaction. Although I entered the role with confidence, I recognized that improving these skills is essential for effective patient care. Furthermore, I learned that internal medicine practitioners deal with a broad spectrum of health issues, including those that may not be immediately apparent. This insight has made me more aware of the importance of thorough patient assessments and the potential for hidden conditions, shaping my approach to future medical practice.
What events, interactions, relationships, or activities during your STEP Signature Project led to the change/transformation that you discussed in #2, and how did those affect you? Write three or four paragraphs describing the key aspects of your experiences completing your STEP Signature Project that led to this change/transformation.
During my internship with Dr. Segaram, the most transformative aspect was undoubtedly the interactions with patients. These interactions were central to the experience, as the patients were the focal point of our work. Hearing their stories and witnessing their journeys allowed me to form meaningful connections with them, particularly since many patients visited multiple times during my internship. These repeated encounters helped deepen my understanding of their experiences and reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in the medical field.
The relationships I developed with patients revealed the complexity of medical care. I learned that not all ailments are immediately visible; some patients may appear well on the outside while grappling with significant health issues internally. This realization underscored the importance of tailoring my approach to each individual, recognizing that each patient’s situation is unique. It became clear that empathetic and careful interactions are crucial, as you never fully know what someone is enduring, despite their outward appearance.
These patient interactions were instrumental in identifying my own areas for improvement. They highlighted the need for ongoing personal growth and refinement in how I engage with patients. This experience was a profound learning opportunity, demonstrating that medical practice extends beyond clinical skills to encompass emotional intelligence and adaptability. Overall, the lessons I gained from these relationships and the resulting transformations have significantly influenced my future aspirations and approach to the medical field.
- Why is this change/transformation significant or valuable for your life? Write one or two paragraphs discussing why this change or development matters and/or relates to your academic, personal, and/or professional goals and future plans
The transformation I experienced during my internship is profoundly significant for my future. Confirming my passion for medicine through hands-on patient interactions has been a pivotal realization. Despite past uncertainties about committing to the rigorous educational path required for a medical career, this experience has solidified my enthusiasm and commitment. Understanding that medicine is where I find fulfillment and joy reassures me of my choice and fuels my motivation to pursue this demanding yet rewarding field.
Additionally, the insights gained into improving patient interactions are crucial for my development as a future physician. Recognizing that effective patient communication is a skill honed through experience has made me more mindful and observant in my approach. This growth is vital for providing compassionate and personalized care, which is essential in the medical profession. As I move forward with my academic and career goals, these lessons will guide my efforts to enhance my patient interaction skills, ensuring that I am well-prepared to meet the needs of those I serve.
