
Juan Diaz
315
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Juan Diaz
315
Bold Points1x
FinalistEducation
James E Taylor High School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Majors of interest:
- Public Health
- Biology, General
Career
Dream career field:
Medicine
Dream career goals:
F.E. Foundation Scholarship
Since childhood, I have been surrounded by healthcare workers. I have been witnessing firsthand the different and complex dynamics of the medical field. My family has been affected by numerous medical challenges, with my sister, father, grandparents, and uncles all struggling with health issues. These experiences exposed me to various healthcare facilities and led me to see patients with a wide variety of conditions and how they were dealt with including some more severe cases.
A particularly profound experience was when my great-uncle moved in with us during the final stages of his life, battling dementia and severe kidney problems. His need for dialysis three times a week and constant medical appointments were something I hadn't seen before and definitely a challenge. Accompanying him with these treatments made me realize the significant impact a compassionate doctor or nurse can have on a patient’s well-being.
When my great-uncle was eventually moved to a care facility, I continued to visit him. I noticed a distinct pattern: the attitude of healthcare providers directly affected his mood and health. On days when nurses and doctors were kind and respectful, he seemed happier and healthier. Unfortunately, when his primary caregiver was changed, his health rapidly deteriorated, and he passed away.
Although the health issues he had were the main cause of his passing, I couldn't ignore the extraordinary influence of the healthcare professionals' attitudes on his well-being. This experience further led me into the medical field, driven by a love for science and a desire to help others. I hope to pursue a career in medicine, starting with a bachelor's degree in public health, followed by medical school.
My goal as a doctor is to significantly impact the medical field, not only by performing medical procedures and treatments but also by creating a culture of empathy and kindness in patient care specifically among physicians. A healthcare environment where patients feel welcomed and supported, and where doctors remember to treat patients as people, not just cases. This approach to patient care which is unfortunately rare is crucial for improving overall health outcomes and patient happiness.
Many doctors often forget to be kind and have conversations with patients. They will only see the patient with their conditions as a problem that needs to be fixed, like a mechanic fixing a car broken. What they fail to remember is that the car is a person too; it is my great-uncle who didn’t receive the compassion he deserved from his doctors before he passed away.