Passion Project: Maia Lee Leads Pre-Health Terps

I'd like to start with a personal reflection on the journey to where I am now. 

I joined Pre-Health Terps as a wide-eyed freshman eager to expose myself to the widest spectrum of possibilities available to me. Having just settled into the routine of college life and responsibilities, I was "recruited" to join the group by one of my teammates at the time. Alexa Rothenbuescher, then a junior on UMD's gymnastics team, was on the PHT E-board, and she said, "You're pre-med? Ok, clear your schedule. You're coming with me to PHT tonight." I say 'recruited' in quotes because at the time, I had no choice – Alexa was quite persuasive and resolute that I would be attending the meeting that night. But that moment has always stuck with me. It's the reason why I'm writing to you today. 

At that very first Pre-Health Terps meeting, I knew I had become part of something special. Beginning college, I wasn't entirely sure which path in the healthcare field I wanted to pursue, nor did I even know what it truly meant to be "pre-med". I knew I wanted to expose myself to anything and everything, but I was unsure of how to actually accomplish this. But that first meeting dispelled each of my fears and doubts one by one. I felt an undeniable sense of community, a sense of purpose, and a new, exciting sense of direction – something that I'd never quite felt before. I was warmly welcomed in an environment that made me feel valued, even in the presence of so many others who seemed to have their academic pursuits perfectly mapped out. I was inspired by the diverse interests and personalities of the group and the many different healthcare professions they planned to pursue. I'd never felt a sense of such excitement before, so much so that, and I'm being completely genuine when I say this, I truly think that my participation in Pre-Health Terps has been a defining stepping stone in my academic pursuit of medicine.

Since that first meeting, I've followed in Alexa's footsteps to join the E-Board, becoming first the Director of Clinical and Community Opportunities, then Vice President, and now President in my final year as a Maryland student. In a way, my story has come full circle. I've come to be exceptionally passionate about this group, its mission, its values, and above all, its community. 

As President this year, I'd like to address this letter to the future of Pre-Health Terps, expressing my gratitude for being a part of something so transformative and sharing the wisdom I've gained throughout my time: 

Dear Fellow Pre-Health Terps, 

Your participation in this group will be nothing short of exceptional. Not because I'm your President this year (though we are planning to make it one of the most exciting years yet!), but because of the culture that has been built since its creation a few years ago.

You will be surrounded by a family of like-minded, driven, and passionate individuals eager to dive headfirst into the daunting world of healthcare. You will be inspired by the unique stories and experiences of others, helping to shape your own personal experiences. During your time in PHT, I encourage you to pour into it, really dig deep when you're faced with an opportunity to self-reflect. These moments will make up your answers to the often infamous questions: "Why healthcare? Why this specific profession?" Trust me, this development of your sense of self and purpose may be one of the most valuable insights that you may gain throughout your time.

And I encourage you to connect with your peers – learn about their experiences and their answers to these challenging questions. Branch out beyond the comfort of your circle and truly immerse yourself in our community. In this reflection together, you might find an answer for yourself.

You are all on this journey together, one that can be terrifying and brutal, but with the support of your fellow Pre-Health Terps, what feels like the start of a blind trek through the darkness may end up being guided by a shining light of excitement and hope.

While in Pre-Health Terps, through workshopping, networking, shadowing, and (very fun) volunteer opportunities, you will be challenged to expand beyond your comfort zone, but all the while supported by this entire community behind you. I commend those who are willing to pursue this path, because it's not an easy one. But know that you are incredibly capable and that you are truly very welcome to the Pre-Health Terps community.

I hope your experience will be an instrumental part, as it was for me, in your path in healthcare and beyond. I look forward to seeing you in the Fall. It’s going to be a great year!

Sincerely,
Maia