March 3, 2016

Summer Medical And Dental Education Program
655 K Street, NW, Suite 100
Washington, DC 20001
smdep@aamc.org

Dear Selection Committee,

As a student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that has strived to combat the minuscule representation of minorities in the professional fields, I feel that I am an excellent candidate for the intern position available for The Summer Medical and Dental Education Program. As a first generation student, I have experienced a rocky road but have overcome those limitations. Thus, I am confident that this program will strengthen my abilities as a student and future medical professional.

Specifically, I am interested in the program site at Duke University. This prestigious university houses an excellent medical school, and I am interested in interacting with professionals who have extensive experience in the medical field. I am aware that there are a number of clinical rotations, and I am curious to observe any differences in patient care from UNC. I’ve interacted and shadowed various physicians at UNC, but I am intrigued to view the differing practice.

Although just a first-year undergraduate student, I have realized how essential it is to aid others that may have had similar struggles that I did. This is why I have started to focus on programs that relate to this issue in some manner. Las Guapitas, a mentoring program that I joined last fall, concentrates on exposing Latino middle school youth to STEAM fields.

When I joined, the current leads of the program saw potential and recruited me to be a part of the executive board. Las Guapitas has not only taught me leadership and the essence of teamwork but to also recognize the importance of sharing what I have learned along this journey to others who may be enduring a similar one. I now understand how essential it is to increase representation in professional fields given that every individual has promise, just differing obstacles. My belief is that we have to start at the root; the branches may be more difficult to reach.

I am certain that The Summer Medical and Dental Education Program will enhance my current skills and enrich my knowledge. As of now, I have taken beginners courses in the sciences and mathematics. However, I feel that is still essential to learn how to navigate these efficiently and successfully. If helped in this aspect, my ability to reach my ultimate goal of becoming a physician will be strengthened.

Furthermore, I look forward to the possibility of joining this program. I am positive it will allow my fascination for healthcare to grow and prosper.

Thank you for your time and your consideration.

Sincerely,

Ana Sofia Ocegueda

B.S. Psychology
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
sofiaa@live.unc.edu