Be the Change: New Medical Student Inspired to Make a Difference

First-year medical student Nana Danso is thrilled to begin her journey in medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Originally from Ghana, Nana’s parents immigrated to the United States in 1998 and her family currently lives in Denver, Colorado. “My parents always dreamed that I would become a doctor,” Nana shares. “When I went to college, my original plan was to work in healthcare administration. While in school, I had the opportunity to serve as a mentor for students from underserved communities who were interested in healthcare careers. I learned so much from this experience, including how poverty and race affect health equity and disparities. Issues of race and culture have always been interesting to me, and it was intriguing to see these areas intersect with medicine.”

With a new inspiration for her career path, Nana began applying to medical schools. “When I was filling out my applications, I originally wanted to go to the east coast or Washington D.C. What attracted me to MCW was the welcoming culture and focus on diversity. I really fell in love with the school. The admission staff and panel of students were so happy to be here.”

Now three months into her medical school career, Nana is grateful for the supportive learning community at MCW. “As medical students, it’s important to be heard and feel supported throughout our journey. It makes a big impact on our future success,” she says. “I look forward to learning how to work together with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to be an integrated team.”

With a goal to become a primary care physician, Nana is inspired to help others by practicing preventative medicine. “Primary care doctors are our first line of defense for preventing serious medical conditions. I don’t want anyone to feel like they can’t go to the doctor because no one understands them. Representation matters - I want to be that person and inspire others too.”

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Nana received a scholarship to support her studies. “Every penny of scholarship funding opens doors for students like me to pursue a medical education,” she shares. “I feel like this is where I’m supposed to be.”