Dr. Sasha Lake, Assistant Professor in the... ... International Women's Day 2024 Live Updates: Women Leaders on "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress."

Dr. Sasha Lake, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology and Anatomy, St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada

“International Women's Day, observed on March 8th, commemorates the exceptional contributions of women and honours their remarkable achievements. The history of humanity shows that women have been traditionally relegated to subordinate roles in society, including within the medical profession. However, time has changed, and more women are entering medicine.

For women in healthcare, having access to supportive mentors and sponsors can be instrumental in overcoming barriers and achieving their professional goals. Both mentors and sponsors play critical roles in fostering the professional growth and success of individuals, especially in healthcare fields where it can be competitive. By providing both career and psychosocial support, mentors help you as their mentee develop the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to advance in their careers. Meanwhile, sponsors can significantly impact your career trajectory by actively advocating for you and opening doors to new opportunities.

Embarking on the journey to become a doctor is both challenging and gratifying, especially for women considering entering the field. Trust in your passion for medicine and your commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. It will be important for you to have a game plan with goals that you will need to achieve to allow you to get into medical school. Do not be afraid to challenge yourself to develop leadership skills. Take on leadership roles in school clubs, community organizations, or research projects. Developing leadership skills will serve you well as a future healthcare professional. Seek out opportunities to gain exposure to the medical field through volunteering, internships, or shadowing experiences. This will give you valuable insights into the day-to-day life of a doctor and help you confirm your passion for medicine.

While you are keeping yourself busy, remember to develop healthy habits and routines, and work-life balance. It is important to recognize the importance of maintaining a work-life balance throughout your academic journey and professional career, therefore take time to develop healthy habits, mindsets, and routines. Remember that a balanced lifestyle contributes not only to your well-being but also enhances your effectiveness as a future compassionate and dedicated healthcare professional.

Best of luck on your inspiring journey toward becoming a doctor, and happy International Women’s Day!”