Dr. Jacobs by Alejandra

Dr. Jacobs by Alejandra - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

I first met Dr. Jacobs during my second year of medical school while working on my research project in ophthalmology. I was interested in exploring how cellular and molecular mechanisms regulate blood flow in choroidal arterioles and endothelial cells, and Dr. Jacobs was the expert guiding this research at our institution. At first, I felt overwhelmed by the complexity of the topic and unsure if I could contribute meaningfully. However, Dr. Jacobs took the time to patiently explain the intricate processes involved, making sure I understood the science before asking me to take on more challenging tasks. Their approachable nature and willingness to answer questions without hesitation made me feel supported and capable, even when I doubted myself.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from Dr. Jacobs is the importance of persistence and resilience in the face of obstacles, particularly in research. Early on, I encountered setbacks in the research process—failed experiments and unexpected data. Rather than focusing on the negatives, Dr. Jacobs emphasized the value of learning from failure. They taught me that every setback is an opportunity for growth, and that scientific discovery is built on perseverance. This mindset has not only helped me with my research but also shaped my approach to medical school and clinical work.

Beyond technical skills, Dr. Jacobs also imparted invaluable advice on the importance of community and collaboration in medicine. They always emphasized that medicine is not an individual endeavor; rather, it is a collective effort to improve lives. This perspective has fueled my passion for advocating for underserved communities, especially within the Latino and Black populations. Their guidance helped me realize that my academic and professional goals should always align with my core values of equity and accessibility in healthcare.

Dr. Jacobs’ influence extends beyond my research and academic work. Their mentorship has been pivotal in shaping my career trajectory and fueling my desire to work on healthcare disparities. Through their guidance, I became involved in projects like the "Skin of Color" research and my leadership role in the Student National Medical Association (SNMA). Dr. Jacobs encouraged me to take on leadership roles and advocate for change, which led to my current involvement in the Spanish Medical Encounters program, where I help connect Spanish-speaking students with mentors in clinical settings.

Dr. Jacobs also emphasized the importance of mentorship in medicine. Their commitment to supporting students like me has inspired me to become a mentor myself, helping others navigate the challenges of medical school and pursue research opportunities. This cycle of giving back is something I hope to continue throughout my career, particularly in ophthalmology, where I aspire to mentor future physicians who share my commitment to social justice in healthcare.