Lynna Ngo, MS2
The longitudinal clerkship opportunities, like MetroPAP, stand out to me because they allow students to build strong, lasting relationships with patients and providers. It’s a unique way to get hands-on experience while learning how to deliver meaningful care.
Minnesota has always felt like home. Growing up in North Dakota, my family often took road trips to the Twin Cities to explore the Mall of America and spend time at the state’s beautiful lakes. Those experiences, along with visiting relatives in Minnesota, gave me a strong sense of connection to the community. U of M’s collaborative environment and focus on serving diverse populations made it clear that this was the perfect place for me to pursue my medical education.
Growing up, I often translated for my parents during medical appointments, which gave me a close-up view of the patient-provider relationship. I was fascinated by how doctors connected with their patients and built trust over time. I’ve always believed that healthcare is a human right, and I want to be someone who advocates for patients and helps them feel cared for and supported.
One of my most meaningful experiences has been my Early Clinical Experience rotation. It’s been incredible to meet patients and see how the things we learn in class translate to real-life care. I also appreciate how we get these experiences early on in our first year of medical school. These moments remind me why I wanted to become a doctor and how important it is to connect with patients on a personal level.
