My Pre-Med Inspiration

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Written By: Shea Baran

Position, Member Since: General Member, Joined Fall 2024

Major & Track: Biology, Pre-Med

Current Year: 1st year

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I have always been interested in science and biology, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with it. That changed the summer after my junior year of high school when I experienced a medical emergency firsthand.

My friends and I were having a sleepover after a graduation party. We stayed up late talking when, out of nowhere, my best friend Natalie stood up and collapsed. Her body slammed into the wall, then onto her vanity, knocking it over. She started shaking on the floor. Blood ran down her forehead, her face turned gray, and foam came from her mouth—she was having a seizure. I panicked but knew I had to act fast. I called 911 while my friend ran to get her mom. The operator guided me through what to do, and I stayed by Natalie’s side until the paramedics arrived. After a few hours in the hospital, we found out she was going to be okay.

That night changed me. I had never felt fear like that before—the fear of losing someone I loved. But when I heard Natalie was safe, I also felt an incredible sense of relief. It made me think about all the families who go through similar moments, waiting and hoping for good news. I realized then that I wanted to be someone who could provide that relief to others. Now, as a pre-med student, I am fully committed to pursuing a career in emergency medicine. This experience ignited a passion in me to help people in their most vulnerable moments.

I have become a first responder and will be attending EMT school this summer to further develop my skills. I am learning how to stay calm under pressure, assess situations quickly, and provide immediate care, all of which are critical in emergency medicine. My goal is to one day be a part of a medical team that makes a difference in people's lives during emergencies, offering not only medical care but also comfort and support in their time of need.