We are so excited that the Resident Student Association (RSA) has sponsored two resident attendees to FIX2019! The scholarship application called the residents to write about a personal situation or important issue surrounding women in emergency medicine. Please enjoy the first of the essays by scholarship winner, Dr. Valerie Pierre!
This photo highlights the
importance of mentorship – an integral aspect of my journey in emergency
medicine. As I reflect on my matriculation into emergency medicine residency,
and the successes, triumphs and failures during my training, I can truly say
that my mentors’ support has been a source of encouragement for me. More
specifically, I have been fortunate to have strong female mentors who came
before me. They continually share their wisdom and experience gained in
overcoming the many barriers throughout their journeys in emergency medicine
and encourage me to persevere in a primarily male-dominated field. This
knowledge that my story is not unique serves as daily inspiration for me.
This photo shows one of my mentors guiding me through a procedure for a
critically ill patient. As an intern at that time, I was very nervous and still
learning the basics of resuscitation in crash and trauma. Having a mentor stand
beside me during this intense time, especially someone who I identify with on a
personal and professional level, is something that is not lost on me. As a
woman, especially a woman of color, there are very few of us in emergency
medicine. The ability to have trailblazers by my side to support and educate
me, serves as motivation that I too, can become a leader and innovator in the
field, and have a positive impact on the next generation of emergency medicine
physicians.
I am so proud of you.