The sun seeps into my dermatology clinic's waiting room, illuminating the patients eagerly awaiting treatment. I call them in, one by one, performing small procedures and soothing their worries. At the day's end, I hop into my car to head to the gym - running is still my favorite release, though yoga wins most days. I head home to meet my partner and our one (maybe two) children for family dinner around the dining room table. We watch a movie, meditate, and put the kids to bed, after which my partner and I pack for our trip to South Africa for a friend's event. The night ends peacefully, and as I reflect in bed, I am filled with gratitude and fulfillment in my career, personal life, and family. Professionally, my dermatology practice thrives, having created innovative treatments for chronic and unique skin conditions, while still addressing aesthetic needs. My days are filled with meaningful patient interactions, having a unique impact on people's lives by improving both their physical and mental well-being at once. Personally, being a mother, friend, and partner has brought me joy like none other. My partner is one of my best friends, and we've found a balance between work and the rest of life. Our home is a safe, welcoming, minimalist environment in which our children feel supported and motivated to pursue whatever they desire. I've been able to maintain the strong friendships I had in medical school, and have made more since then, filling my life with exciting trips and collaborations. Travel, which I've managed to interweave with my yoga practice, remains a centerpiece of my life, more so now that I have a stable foundation. Throughout the year, my family and I explore new countries, from Antarctica to Mumbai. Each journey adds a vibrant chapter to our family's story, bringing meaning and gratitude to our lives, and enriching our experience. Each aspect of this imagined life brings me and the broader world value, improving the lives of those in need, and uplifting my family and friends to higher levels. Though this imaginary picture may feel far away as a single, working medical student, I strive to build that life every day that I can. Every lecture, anatomy lab, and quiz is a step closer to that life, with the opportunity to support myself as a dermatologist one day driving me to do as much as I can. It is my hope that I can achieve this goal, and most importantly, find fulfillment in whatever life I do create.

I was inspired to pursue a career in pediatric medicine by a profound and personal journey that began with a single word: empathy. This word became the guiding force behind my aspirations, steering me towards a path of healing and compassion for the youngest and most vulnerable members of our society. My journey into the world of pediatric medicine was not one that I had envisioned from an early age, but one that emerged from a series of experiences that gradually shaped my perspective on healthcare and ignited a deep passion for pediatric care. The pivotal moment in my journey occurred while I was in undergradate, when I volunteered in the pediatric ward of my local hospital. My initial experience was simultaneously heartwarming and heart-wrenching, witnessing the resilience of children facing debilitating illnesses, their unwavering spirit shining through despite their fragile bodies. It was during my time volunteering in this environment that I first encountered Sarah, a spirited 7-year-old girl with a radiant smile that seemed to defy her diagnosis of leukemia. I had the privilege of spending time with her, reading stories, playing games, and simply offering a comforting presence during her chemotherapy sessions. Sarah's unwavering optimism and courage were nothing short of inspiring, and her ability to find joy in the midst of adversity left an indelible mark on my heart. Tragically, Sarah's battle with leukemia was ultimately lost, and I had the difficult task of witnessing the heartbreak that enveloped her family. It was during those tender moments, sitting with her parents as they grieved the loss of their beloved daughter, that I understood the profound role of a pediatrician. Beyond treating physical ailments, pediatricians serve as pillars of support for families, helping them navigate the emotional turbulence that often accompanies childhood illness. This experience with Sarah's family illuminated the true essence of pediatric medicine for me: it's not just about diagnosing and treating diseases, but also about providing holistic care that addresses the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of a child's well-being. Pediatricians have the unique privilege of forming deep, long-lasting relationships with their patients and their families, guiding them through the challenges of childhood and adolescence, and are charged with the responsibility of providing excellent care. In conclusion, my love for pediatric medicine has guided my path thus far, showing me the power and importance of empathetic, well-informed physicians, and I am committed to channeling that empathy into a career dedicated to the health, happiness, and resilience of the children I will have the privilege to serve. Pediatric medicine is not just a career choice; it's a calling, and I am eager to embark on this journey of healing, advocacy, and hope.