Kamilah C.
Banks-Word
Medical School
Candidate
Former MTSU Student
1) How did you
become interested in math or science field while at high school?
Actually my interest for science came later on while I was in college. Initially, I was afraid of science classes because I felt like I would not do well in them because I was unsure of my abilities. Despite my fears, through the advice of professors and mentors, I became involved in different research projects throughout college that turned out to be very enjoyable – the science projects led to my appreciation for all of the sciences (social sciences and basic sciences). I am a visual learner, so I learn by doing and seeing things right in front of me. This realization helped me do well in science labs and I was able to apply what I learned from the labs to real life applications. Science is all around us in every thing that we do, right down to the air that we breathe, so realistically every person on this earth is a part of science.
2) Why did you
choose to work in your field?
My goal is to help people feel both physically and mentally healthy. As a future psychiatrist, I will have the opportunity to impact people’s lives by offering them quality medical care. I plan to work in low-income communities with families who can not afford to go to the doctor. I truly enjoy helping people feel better about themselves and through a career in medicine I will be able to help a lot of people in various ways.
3) What are some
areas of your job that you like the most?
Although I am not a doctor as of yet, I have had multiple chances to shadow doctors, physician assistants and nurses and to work directly with patients. I enjoy being able to assist doctors and nurses whenever they need help in the hospital or at free clinics for people who are financially disadvantaged. The best part of my shadowing/volunteering experiences has been seeing the patients smile when they hear good news about their health.
4) What one thing
would you tell a middle or high school girl who is considering majoring in stem
in college?
Any thing is possible as long as you remain focused and dedicated to doing your best. STEM majors tend to be very challenging and require a lot of work for success and at times it may seem like you should have chosen another major. Don’t let the hard work scare you because in the end it makes you a very knowledgeable and confident young woman who will potentially be one of the BEST in your field. Also, remember to never let any one discourage you from following your dreams…you are capable of becoming what ever you set your mind to be.
5) Please provide a
short biography and a photo.
I was born in Chicago Illinois and I am the oldest of five children. Being the oldest and only girl, I felt early on that I had to be a role model for my younger brothers. My mother has always emphasized education in our household and she has been my sole motivation to succeed in school. In 2001, I was the first female in my family to receive a Bachelor’s degree and in 2003 I was the first to receive a Master’s degree (both degrees are in Psychology). These two accomplishments have motivated other women in my family to pursue higher education and I am proud to be a part of their motivation. Currently, I am in the Medical/Dental Education Preparatory Program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale preparing to start medical school in the upcoming year. I look forward to learning all that I can about the human body, so that I will be in the position to provide vital medical care to people for many years to come.
6) What is your
contact information? (Phone number or email address)
E-mail address: kbanks@siumed.edu
7) Would you like
to correspond with a high school girl who is interested in entering your field?
Yes, I would love to.