Name: Anele Nnachi

Medical Title: Pre-Medical student

Instagram: anelennachi

School: Undergraduate at the University of Florida pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Health Education

Why did you choose this profession?

I've chosen the premedical track with the aim of contributing to a more holistic approach to healthcare. My goal is to integrate health education into the medical field, providing patients with a comprehensive understanding of how to achieve wellness. I believe in fostering a proactive mindset, preventing illness before it occurs rather than merely prescribing treatments. While this approach may result in fewer visits, I believe it paves the way for a more sustainable and preventative lifestyle for patients.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My greatest inspiration is my father, who embarked on the premedical track at the young age of 9, driven by the loss of his own father to diabetes. Growing up in an African village, my dad faced numerous challenges and could have easily given in to excuses about pursuing a medical career, especially in the United States. Yet, his unwavering work ethic serves as a guiding light for me, illustrating how to overcome obstacles and achieve success. His passion for helping others has led to a fulfilling career, and I aspire to follow in his footsteps, aspiring to come close to the level of success he has achieved in making a meaningful impact on people's lives.

Hobbies: During the weekdays, my primary hobby is weightlifting, but whenever I have free time, I love attending live music events. Traveling is another big interest of mine, and during my upcoming gap year, I'm looking to shadow abroad and be able to see more of the world before—hopefully—transitioning to medical or DO school.

Fun Fact: I have a twin sister.

Current Passion Project: I feel fortunate to have combined my passion for travel, spending time with friends, and medicine through my involvement in a remarkable organization at the University of Florida called Global Medical Training. As the Sponsorship Chair, my role involves reaching out to brands and companies that can help ease the financial burden for students, patients, and doctors. This support comes in the form of providing scrubs, vitamins, medical equipment, or even direct donations for our trips to Central America. In these underserved communities, our goal is to offer much-needed medical care, and I'm proud to play a part in making a positive impact.

Tell us more about the Peru Mission Trip.

The Peru Mission Trip stands out as one of the most memorable experiences in my lifetime. Our journey began with exploring Lima for a day before heading to the rural city of Chincha where our clinics were set up. Over the course of the trip, we operated in various locations including two schools, a church, and a basketball court, dividing our efforts into medical, dental, and pharmacy areas. Interacting with school kids and families was incredibly heartwarming, especially given that some had not visited a clinic in years. The genuine appreciation for the level of care and attention we provided, in contrast to hurried city clinic or hospital visits, left a lasting impact on the patients we interacted with. This being my second trip, it further solidified my conviction that this path is the right one for me. I hope to continue serving abroad in similar communities post-graduation, fostering meaningful connections and making a positive impact on those in need.

What features do you look for in scrub brands?

I appreciate scrub brands that prioritize straightforward designs while using comfortable fabrics.

Can you share a memorable experience from your career/study that highlights the importance of sustainable practices in healthcare?

During my hospital volunteering, it became very apparent in a short time the substantial energy used and supplies invested in delivering timely medical care. I believe integrating sustainability in any capacity in a healthcare setting has the potential to go a long way in reducing our carbon footprint on Earth.

What do you think about sustainability in a healthcare environment?

Ultimately, I think sustainability in healthcare has the power to inspire positive change beyond clinical settings, creating a ripple effect toward a more sustainable and health-conscious society.

Advice for others interested in entering your field?

For aspiring students considering the premedical track, my advice is twofold. Firstly, ask yourself if you genuinely have the passion and commitment to pursue this profession. Once you've affirmed your dedication, the key to success lies in maintaining a disciplined routine. The premedical track is demanding, and distractions are nearly inevitable in an undergraduate setting. Establish a well-organized routine encompassing both study schedules and extracurricular activities. This disciplined approach will not only make the path more manageable but will also foster a sense of organization that will prove invaluable throughout your academic and professional journey.

With all that said above, try to enjoy the journey the best you can and overall prioritize your mental health.