Darren Hernandez, physiology junior

What is a fond memory you have as a child?
One of my best childhood memories was waking up on Saturday mornings in my superhero underwear, eating a bowl of cereal and watching cartoons.

What is a memory you have of Halloween as a child?
When I was eight or nine, I filled up three large bags full of candy. When I went home I busted into the bags of candy. I ate so much candy that I got sick and had to throw up. From that Halloween on, I had to be regulated by my parents how much candy I ate.

How has your childhood affected who you are today?
There have been many instances in my childhood that have affected who I am today. My childhood experiences have made me biased, sensitive or more knowledgeable to certain situations and experiences that others may not be to. One of these particular experiences I have had has been going through divorce as a child. My parents were actually never married, but my brother’s dad who raised me, him and my mom got divorced.

When you were a child, what was your ideal career?
I have always wanted to be a doctor and it has stuck with me even ’til now. Some of the reasons why I want to be a doctor are because I have had surgeries on my neck, spine and hip, so it is kind of a way to give back. It has also motivated me to keep going, and I still want to be a doctor today.

What are the biggest challenges you face in becoming a doctor?
I feel that some of the biggest challenges are staying focused with school and prioritizing between the social and academic aspects of college. It is challenging to apply myself and to take the time out of my day in order to stay focused. Financial complications are also challenging in becoming a doctor.

– Kelsey Ahlmark