Sally Nguyen

Becoming a pediatrician has been a lifelong dream for Sally. The Revelle College honors student is majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology to gain a better understanding of the science behind medicine. She wants to one day provide public service to children in developing countries, and to broaden her knowledge she joined Camp Kesem through UC San Diego, a national organization dedicated to supporting and empowering children who are impacted by their parent’s cancer. “Cancer affects everyone indirectly or directly, and I found it incredible the impact that Camp is able to make on these families. I know how important formative years can be, especially given that my parents were raised in a poor country. With a personal connection towards children in developing countries and my experience with UNICEF in high school, I am passionate about contributing to the healthcare needs of children across the world.” She plans to use her knowledge in order to better understand medical processes and how they impact patients. “As a physician, I want to be confident in my expertise and instill confidence in my patients.” Sally also gained insight into different specialties, types of training, anatomy, and clinic etiquette through a two-week 2019 at Stanford Clinical Summer Internship, confirming her desire to become a physician and help others in need.

As she continues with her educational studies, Sally has also found opportunities to gain valuable experience in the community where she currently works at a research lab at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medica Discovery Institute studying immunology. “I am very interested in understanding the science that allows for the medicine to be possible and am committed to understanding what I can about science and empowering others to explore what science can provide as well.” In addition, Sally has participated in multiple club committees in order to further her academic and professional career. “I was on the Biological Sciences Students Association Annual Events committee where we were devoted to guiding fellow students of the Biology Department to explore what is possible with their major. In addition, I am currently on the Health & Medical Professionals Preparation SEARCH Committee, where we want to demonstrate options in the health professional world other than becoming a physician.”

As Sally continues toward her goal of becoming a physician, she continues to think about helping others. “I hope to use my medical knowledge to give back to charity in terms of medical missions. Healthcare is important to every person and I find it my duty to ensure proper healthcare for all.”