Navigating Medical School: Alejandra’s First Year

Our Youth Mentor, Alejandra, reflects on her experience in medical school and shares what it’s been like as she navigates her first year. Many youth with chronic illnesses, like JIA, often aspire to be doctors or other healthcare providers, as they are inspired by their own lived experiences to help others.

Thinking of medical school and want to connect with Alejandra? Book a 1:1 peer mentorship appointment with her today, or connect with her at our Virtual Connection Event on October 27!

Hi. My name is Alejandra. I am from Regina, Saskatchewan. When I was two years old, I was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Since my diagnosis, I have received compassionate and competent care from countless healthcare providers. I know firsthand the positive impact that good healthcare can have on a person’s life. Because of this, it has been a longstanding goal of mine to pursue a career as a physician. This year, I reached a big milestone in achieving this goal by beginning medical school.

Our fall semester began at the start of August. Showing up to my first day of medical school at the same hospital where I had received pediatric rheumatology care for so many years felt surreal. Our classroom is located in the basement of a hospital, which makes for a very unique and immersive learning environment.

Already, I have learned so many interesting things about hematology, immunology, pharmacology and more. I also have had the opportunity to practice clinical skills, including a musculoskeletal exam, and shadow some physicians. A highlight of my training so far was shadowing at a family medicine clinic. I hope to explore as many areas of medicine as I can during my first year.

Recently, we had our white coat ceremony. At the ceremony, each student receives a white coat, recites an oath, and is welcomed into the medical profession. It was such a special day. My family attended and we took many photos and celebrated with dinner after the event. Something that made the day extra special was having my pediatric rheumatologist in the audience. Seeing him there was a powerful, full-circle moment that I am so grateful for.

On the day of the ceremony, I spent some time reflecting on both my “whys” and “hows” regarding medicine. My ‘why’, of course, stems from my experiences living with JIA. And a large part of my ‘how’ is through the support that my family, friends, healthcare team, and youth-centered organizations like Cassie + Friends have provided me. Over the years, Cassie + Friends has provided me with countless opportunities, such as the Future Leaders Program and PaCER to develop skills and gain confidence. These opportunities have helped me so much throughout my journey.

Something else that I have reflected on is the fact that my dreams and motivations are not at all uncommon. I am certain that there are many youth out there who, like me, want to become a healthcare provider because of their experiences with a chronic illness. As we work toward our goals, it is so important to practice self-compassion, take breaks when needed, reach out for support, and remain motivated by our lived experiences and desire to have a positive impact in our community. And, if there is anyone who has any questions about navigating the pre-med journey with chronic illness please connect with me. I would be happy to chat.