Summer Undergraduate Research Program - Fred Hutchinson ...

One of my more memorable experiences from my summer at the XXXXX was cooking dinner
for patients and caregivers at the XXX XXX XXX XXXX (XXXX) House. After preparing and
serving pizza, salad, and angel food cake, I took advantage of the opportunity to find out more
about the patients over a shared meal. As I talked to a patient in her mid-twenties, I learned that
she had lived in XXX, XX, where I currently reside. Her face beamed as she referenced different
streets and stores of which I was familiar. After further inquiring about her interests, she
excitedly told me about the places she had traveled to and a book that she hopes to publish soon.
Although this patient was actively battling cancer, she was smiling despite her fears. I gave her a
warm “Southern hug” to say goodbye, and returned home thrilled that I was able to produce a
moment where her mind was not focused on cancer.
I entered XXXX University searching for a way to live a life of service, and I will leave having
obtained the answer. Once puzzled by the dizzying array of ways to live a life of service, I now
find myself at the crossroads of science and offering medical care among the underserved.
Medical school will equip me with the crucial skills needed to respond to that physician’s plea. I
am committed to live this life as a life-long learner and to view each patient through a set of
lenses that will see the invaluable even when certain life experiences may say otherwise.
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