On April 19th, 2015 JMSA held its second panel discussion titled “Steps to Going to College and Medical Fields” as part of the Japanese American Association (JAA) Sakura Health Fair. The aim of the panel discussion was to introduce students to careers in the health professions and provide guidance on how to apply to college and medical school.

The panel featured JMSA physicians and student members with a wide variety of backgrounds in medicine. Panelists included: Dr. Yuzuru Anzai, Dr. Kimihiko Oishi, Dr. Maki Kano, Kenji Fujitani, Alisa Prager, and Yoshiko Toyoda. ‎The event attracted high school students, college students, as well as parents and other members of the Japanese community.

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The event started with a presentation on motivations to becoming a physician, the different professions within healthcare, and the requirements to becoming a physician in both the US and Japan. Students were also introduced to the new JMSA physician-shadowing program, which provides opportunities for high school, college and medical students to gain exposure to various healthcare fields by shadowing JMSA healthcare providers.

The panelists described their motivations for pursuing medicine and the importance of pursuing one’s passions and interests. They answered questions about the college application process and how to do well in college. They also described how to apply to medical school and the several different paths to becoming a physician in both the US and Japan. The panel discussion was very successful and JMSA hopes to continue supporting students in their quest to pursue healthcare careers. We hope to repeat the program in the fall this year.

Students who are interested in participating in the JMSA shadowing program can sign up by filling out this form.

Healthcare providers, who would be willing to provide shadowing opportunities to students, should fill out this form.