2 AM Opportunity Hunting

By Anonymous Premed

It was 2AM at night. The fresh scent of warm, Jasmine Tea wafted into the air as I laid in my pajamas in bed, perusing the Kapiolani Medical Center's "Find a Physician" database. Why, you ask? I was trying to find a physician to shadow. I am interested in the field of pediatrics, and was looking at the list of pediatricians who might want to take me - a measly college sophomore at the time - under their wing to observe their duties in the clinic. Prior to this post-midnight occurrence, I had attended a pre-medical Q&A with a physician who had shown us the accessible opportunities that we had to moreso expose ourselves to the field of medicine as pre-medical students. I learned about physician shadowing, and was very excited about the idea.

Hence, there I was at 2AM, essentially "stalking" these pediatricians. For the ones I was able to find an email for, I sent each a message introducing myself and asking whether they could use an extra hand in their work. Sent, sent, and sent! I closed my laptop, headed to bed - anticipating responses to come.

Long story short - I was able to find extremely valuable and meaningful shadowing AND research opportunities with pediatricians that I have since then developed very meaningful and worthwhile professional relationships with. I was taught and exposed to many valuable skills; and have have pushed me forward in my endeavors on my journey towards becoming a physician. My main piece of advice: don't be afraid to go for what you want, believe in yourself, have a "can do" attitude, and have fun with it! You'll never know where the journey will take you to.