This summer we had the privilege of working with medical students in the Philadelphia area through the Bridging The Gaps program! In this blog series, we’ll highlight the people behind the program and learn more about our interns who helped us so much this summer.
Adeayo
Tell us more about yourself!
I grew up in Bowie, Maryland and graduated from University of Maryland Baltimore County where I studied Biology, Theatre and Chinese. After graduating, I worked as a dental assistant for two years before moving to Philadelphia in 2022 to start dental school. In my free time I enjoy singing, dancing, cooking and spending time with my friends and family!
What made you want to come to HMS?
From my experience working as a dental assistant, I saw too many instances of special needs patients not being able to receive the proper care and attention they needed due to lack of accessibility. I wanted to come to HMS because I wanted to learn how I could better serve and advocate for those who lived with a disability.
How did your time at HMS change you?
Working at HMS was a truly wonderful experience. It really showed me how much care, patience, and attention to detail went into caring for a child with cerebral palsy. The experience also broadened my understanding of cerebral palsy and showed me how one’s creativity can bridge the gap between what is unattainable and what is accessible. Lastly, the experience encouraged me to become a much better advocate for the special needs population. There are so many misconceptions surrounding the community and I believe that it is important for us to help educate and inform those who may not be as knowledgeable or experienced as we are.
What was your favorite part of your internship?
My favorite part of the internship was performing “Boogie Shoes” with Courtney’s class! It was so much fun. I also really enjoyed working on different games and projects in order to make them more accessible to the students as well!
What are your plans for the future?
After completing my dental school education, I will be working in the Navy as a dentist as part of the Health Professions Scholarship Program. In addition to my doctoral degree, I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in law as well. After completing both degrees, I hope to move back to Maryland and use what I learn to become a better advocate and supporter for patients who live with a disability.
Kayla
Tell us more about yourself!
My name is Kayla and I am a rising second year medical student at Drexel University College of Medicine! I was born and raised in Richmond, VA so moving to Philadelphia has been quite the adventure. Outside of school, I like to watch movies, play the guitar, and cross-stitch.
When you heard that you were going to join HMS School for this opportunity, what were you most looking forward to or looking to gain?
When I first heard I would be joining HMS, I was so excited to learn about different styles and methods of interpersonal communication. I have never worked with people who have cerebral palsy in the past, so I knew that this would be a great opportunity to expand my understanding of what it means to communicate with others in a way that is accessible and meaningful. I’m excited to carry these skills with me into my future medical practice!
What was your favorite part of the experience?
Without question, my favorite part of this experience has been the kids. Every single student I’ve had the chance to interact with has made me laugh or smile, and I am truly thankful that I had the opportunity to get to know them.
What was the most important lesson learned at HMS that you’ll take with you?
I think there’s a quote outside of Courtney’s classroom that says it much more eloquently, but there really is no such thing as “special needs.” We all need the same things in life, but we all have different ways of receiving those things.
What advice would you give to someone interning at HMS?
When I first started at HMS, I admit I was a bit intimidated just because I had never done anything like this before. However, I feel it’s important to lean into this slight discomfort and unfamiliarity because that’s where the greatest opportunity for learning and growth lies. I would encourage future interns to soak up as much wisdom and knowledge as possible from everyone in this wonderful community.
Interested in working with HMS? Visit our Career Opportunities page to see what positions may be right for you!
Want to volunteer at HMS? Visit our Volunteer page to learn more about how you can help out at HMS!