Jimmy Yu

Jimmy is a believer in the power of experience, as his resume of volunteerism, internships, student leadership roles and employment illustrates. “Apersonal achievement of mine is that I have allowed my experiences and not my circumstances define me. I am a low-income, first-generation college student, and all the statistics point to me not being able to achieve.”

While he struggled at first, “I fought the notion that I do not have the social skills, experience or background to be competitive in the science community. I did well in classes, but finding opportunities was difficult for me because I felt like I did not belong. But with time, I became confident and learned to sell myself and let my experience shape who I was, and not let the circumstances that I was given engulf who I become.”

Jimmy wants to be the first in his family to graduate college, and also attend medical school and pursue a career in sports medicine. “I really want to work with underserved populations and volunteer at local high schools, not only helping grow their sports programs, but also provide care for students who otherwise would not be able to participate due to financial or social barriers.”

Jimmy’s been there. “In high school, the healthcare plan that I was on only allowed one doctor’s visit a year. So, my annual checkup and sports physical were done in a 10-minute appointment. If I had injuries, I really did not have anywhere to turn except sitting out for practices.I want a career where I can give back by offering high-quality care to student athletes.”

Jimmy’s interest in healthcare disparities expanded when he interviewed a woman for a class assignment on financial, social and environmental obstacles. “She was enrolled in her state healthcare program, but still faced enormous financial barriers to access the doctor. I was shocked to learn of the disparities that even insured Americans have in accessing proper healthcare. It was surprising to me how a simple doctor’s appointment could still cost upwards of $80 to an insured person. Understanding this has challenged me to take classes that help me better understand why we have these disparities and how future physicians can help create social change.”

And because he’s discovered the gratification of mentoring younger people, Jimmy says, “As a physician, I hope to provide student athletes with the opportunities in sports that help them stay active and build a sense of camaraderie and a hard work ethic.”