Why me?

I dreamed of having my parents join me on stage during my graduation from medical school. Early on, I realized that the best way to make that a reality was to specialize in one field, excel in it, and stand out enough to earn special recognition. I chose a specialty that I was passionate about—Orthopedics—where I had an advanced background, making it easier to integrate into clinical practice.

With this in mind, I developed strategies to excel in Orthopedics.

Vision and Mindset

Every day, I visualized the joy on my parents' faces as they received the award. This vision kept me motivated and focused on why I was working so hard. From day one, I set my mind on this goal, knowing I needed to exceed expectations, not just meet them. This mindset fueled my extra efforts and ultimately led to my recognition as the most outstanding clinical clerk in Orthopedics.

Seeing this vision come to life was exactly how I had pictured it. Just look at their happy faces.

Going Above and Beyond

During my clerkship, I realized that merely fulfilling the requirements wasn’t enough—I needed to stand out. While my peers were content with completing their assigned tasks, I consistently sought additional responsibilities. Whether it was assisting in complex surgeries, staying late to follow up on patient progress, or volunteering for research projects, I was always eager to contribute more.

Proactivity: A Key to Success

In the fast-paced environment of orthopedic surgery, waiting for instructions could mean missing out on valuable learning opportunities. I made it a point to anticipate the needs of the team and the patients. I would prepare before entering the operating room, often studying the procedure beforehand to ensure I could assist effectively. I also made it a habit to review patient charts ahead of time, enabling me to contribute meaningfully during rounds and discussions.

By taking ownership of my learning, I demonstrated that I was not just a passive participant in my education but a dedicated and driven future orthopedic surgeon.

Hard Work

While others took breaks or left early, I stayed behind, driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire to perfect my skills. This dedication did not go unnoticed. Attendings and residents frequently commented on my work ethic and determination. They appreciated my willingness to take on additional shifts, assist in emergency cases, and handle difficult tasks that others might shy away from. Over time, I became a trusted member of the team—someone they could rely on to deliver high-quality care under pressure.

Dedication

Clinical and academic performance assessments were the major criteria for this recognition. We had to submit an Orthopedics portfolio and take a 100-item exam, with the highest score in both categories earning the title of Most Outstanding Clinical Clerk. We were required to create case reports for two patients—one traumatic and one non-traumatic—but I submitted four case reports on fractures, ACL tears, Pott’s Disease, and Osteosarcoma.

This award-winning portfolio reflects not only a mastery of orthopedic practice but also my passion for advancing the field and improving patient care.

I studied intensely for the Orthopedics comprehensive exam, reviewing all my previous notes, quizzes, exams, transcripts, and all available resources to me. I carefully rationalized every answer to increase my chances of getting them right. My hard work paid off when I scored exceptionally high, giving me a strong shot at the recognition.

And the day finally came…

Being recognized as the Most Outstanding Clinical Clerk in Orthopedics is an honor that I hold dear. It is a testament to the countless hours of hard work, the proactive stance I adopted, and my unwavering commitment to going above and beyond. More than that, it reflects my deep passion for Orthopedics and my dedication to improving the lives of my patients.

This recognition is not just an accolade; it is a reminder of the standards I set for myself and the level of excellence I aspire to in my future career. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I had during my clerkship and the mentorship I received. These experiences have shaped me into the clinician I am today, ready to take on the challenges of orthopedic surgery with the same vigor and enthusiasm that earned me this award.

As I move forward in my career, I will continue to embrace these principles—going above and beyond, being proactive, and working harder than anyone else. These qualities have brought me success, and I am confident they will continue to do so as

I embark on the next chapter of my journey in Orthopedics...

Where will I be in the coming years? Where will I pursue my Orthopedics Residency? What lies ahead for my HVA Agency?

The future is uncertain, but that's what makes it so exciting and worth exploring! One thing's for sure. It's gonna be full of amazing surprises and accomplishments I would have never believed I'll be able to achieve.

Stay tuned!