General Meeting 1
Addressing Mental Health in Pre-Health Education
In the Spring GM #1 of the Mental Pre-health Initiative (MPHI), USC students came together to confront the common, yet often stigmatized, topic of mental health. In the competitive field of pre-health education, where grades are highly valued, the pressure to excel can be overwhelming. As the meeting unfolded, it was clear that there's more to success and self-worth than what appears on a transcript.
Imposter syndrome, the mental health phenomenon experienced by up to 82% of college students (Bess, 2023), can lead us to believe that our value as individuals hinges solely on our academic performance. Students feel pressured to constantly prove themselves and to validate their existence through achievement.
"A lot of times, we use grades as a measure of our worth," said one member. "But we aren’t defined by them."
The meeting transitioned towards finding balance and a sense of self-worth beyond grades. The importance of hobbies, passions, and pursuits outside of school emerged as antidotes to imposter syndrome. By maintaining diverse interests and sources of fulfillment, students can develop a healthy mindset and protect their mental health.
"Remember that you are a special person," stated another participant. "There are more important things than grades."
The meeting resonated with the idea that each student holds a genuine desire to help others. As future healthcare professionals, their ultimate purpose lies within making a positive impact on the lives of others. And this idea, as shared by the club's president Patrick, can be empowering.
Patrick recalled his experience teaching kids at a local Los Angeles elementary school which was a role that allowed him to escape the pressures of class and connected him to a larger sense of purpose. Even after the suboptimal results of a challenging exam, the joy of helping others provided Patrick with a sense of happiness and fulfillment.
"We should always help others feel better," Patrick urged. "That helps us feel better as well."
The discussion moved into a reflection on the power of community and compassion. Members shared anecdotes of how supporting others enriches their own lives and contributes to a collective sense of well-being.
"Helping others allows you to contribute to the community," remarked one member, "It's the ultimate medicine."
Club members emphasized the importance of destigmatizing imposter syndrome and mental health discussions. The members recognized that open dialogue can lead to greater understanding and support among peers. Something that, noted by members, USC excels at. The pre-health community at USC fosters a kind environment backed by supportive student leadership and the collective desire to help others.
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that in the pursuit of excellence, it's essential to embrace imperfection, prioritize self-care, and help others beyond the classroom. When helping others, we find our own sense of purpose and create a community where everyone belongs.
References
Bess, J. (2023, August 1). Imposter Syndrome: A Universal Struggle - NCI. Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics. Retrieved April 15, 2024, from https://dceg.cancer.gov/about/diversity-inclusion/inclusivity-minute/2023/imposter-syndrome
