This category contains student reflections on key moments in their education that gave them new perspective and deeper insights to healthcare.
Medical Student Contributing Writer
CUNY School of Medicine
Denisha McCurchin is a Class of 2025 medical student at the CUNY School of Medicine. Outside of school, she sings, manages a YouTube channel, and enjoys community service.
Medical student Denisha McCurchin shares one of her final moments in the hospital with her grandmother who had a stroke. She tells the story through the senses of sight and hearing and reflects on the care she wishes her grandmother received as well as the care she endeavors to deliver as a future doctor.
Zain Khawaja, a medical student, discusses his experience as a mentee and provides insight on creating social support networks via mentorship.
Entering the field of medicine can be daunting, especially if you are the first physician in the family. Current intern Dr. Ervin Anies discusses the emotions associated with assimilating into the culture of medicine and how we as providers can use our diversity to foster better relationships between providers and our patients.
Max Hawkins, a second-year resident, reflects on his medical education journey, the process of consent and the importance of trusting that “gut feeling.”
Analisa Narro, a third-year medical student, wrestles with the academic uncertainty surrounding a pass/fail Step 1 exam and discovers freedom.
Henry Zou, an Asian American fourth-year medical student, reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic and finds courage and hope.
Dr. Erin Saner reflects on the importance of underrepresented minorities and representation in clinical care and education.
Medical student Atisa Paudel reflects on the impact of her immigrant background on her medical education.
Medical student Rucha Borkhetaria shares a photograph that represents her view of an ideal physician.
Medical student Ana Jimenez reflects on her experience during her surgery rotation.
Medical student Jackson Dean reflects on the importance of planning ahead and giving back to one’s community.
Medical student Rooshi Parikh writes about the power of human connection through a small ritual performed between a physician and a patient.
Medical Student Contributing Writer
City University of New York School of Medicine
Rooshi is a student at CCNY/CSOM class of 2026. He is a native New Yorker and loves to travel. He is an aspiring physician with an interest in medical research.
