"Back" to the Future

Carlos | future pediatric orthopedic surgeon

My dream is to become a pediatric orthopedic surgeon because I have a love and interest in engineering, medicine and kids. While on a trip to Disneyworld, I met a pilot whose best friend is an orthopedic surgeon because this career combines engineering as well as medicine. This conversation really peaked my interest in this career path. I am an excellent student and have earned a Presidential Award for academic excellence for two years in a row. I have also excelled on the STARR exams and am most interested in math and science courses in school so I think I would do well in this field.

Orthopedic surgery is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, care, and treatment of patients with disorders of the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons. When my sister was born, she had hip dysplasia and had to wear a special harness for the first 6 months of her life to help her hip bones and legs fuse together. My dream is to someday help other kids like my sister run and play like normal kids.

According to www.healthcommunities.com, there are many steps needed to becoming an orthopedic surgeon. Before entering medical school, one must earn a bachelor's degree, preferably in a science based major. After earning a bachelor's degree, 4 years of medical school is required, followed by another 5 years of residency, which includes 4 years of orthopedic surgeon training and 1 year training in general surgery.

The medical field is always expanding so opportunities in this field are amazing! As people are living longer, the need for great medical care continues to grow. Please help me go "back" to the future via a scholarship that will allow me to begin my journey towards my dream.