Baylor Engaged: Isha Thapar
How did you maximize your Baylor years?
Entering my freshman year at Baylor, I knew I wanted to be a physician. I was inspired from an early age by my grandmother, who was one of the first female physicians in the Indian Air Force and a champion of health equity. My experience at Baylor not only confirmed my desire to pursue medicine, but also cultivated my passion in new ways, allowing me to find my own distinct calling in medicine. My time at Baylor allowed me to discover the kind of doctor I want to be, and the values I want to embody in my future career. I hope sharing my story will show how curiosity and compassion can unite in a unique environment like Baylor, which promotes caring for one's neighbor as a parallel mission to scientific exploration.
During my first semester at Baylor, I joined an environmental health lab led by Dr. Bryan Brooks. I conducted research on the epigenetic effects of PFAS, a contaminant disproportionately contaminating the water sources of marginalized populations. In addition to gaining research skills, this experience introduced me to the environmental determinants of health. I learned how a disproportionate burden of disease is borne by disadvantaged groups due to issues like lack of safe drinking water, polluted air, and hazardous waste contamination. Additionally, through a partnership between Baylor and Baylor College of Medicine’s National School of Tropical Medicine, I was able to conduct research on mRNA vaccines and learn about the impact of neglected tropical diseases on the world’s poorest populations.
During my sophomore year, through the flexibility afforded by the University Scholar curriculum, I was able to delve deeper into the realm of environmental justice by taking the course “The Environment and Political Processes” with Professor Julie King. Through this class, I started to see the connections between my research in environmental health and the policy changes required to better public health outcomes. I was inspired to form a new student organization called Students for Environmental Equity (SEE), with the goal of uniting students in an effort to translate our passion for environmental health into tangible policy change through advocacy and lobbying. Baylor SEE seeks to cultivate intentional advocacy that prioritizes the health of marginalized populations by virtue of both our shared planet as well as our shared humanity. My experiences with SEE inspired me to apply for the Harry S. Truman Scholarship, where I was selected a finalist. Although I did not receive the scholarship, I am grateful for the experience of applying, as it allowed me to better reflect on and articulate my career goals, and shaped my future in incredible ways. Through the Truman interview process, I was connected with Dr. Lisa Doggett, President of Texas Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR). I joined PSR as an intern and subsequently as a part-time employee. My work with PSR has shown me how healthcare practitioners can play a vital role in elucidating environmental determinants of health and advocating for the patient beyond the four walls of the hospital room.
What truly made my Baylor experience unique was not only what I was able to achieve, but rather the support that made it possible. The endless support of the faculty, staff, and fellow students at Baylor constantly inspired me to keep learning and discovering new horizons in a way that I think is unmatched by any other university. What allowed me to maximize my Baylor years was drawing on this community of support. Thus, I wish to thank Dr. Brooks, whose passion for environmental health first ignited a spark in me for the field; Professor King, who inspired me to found Students for Environmental Equity and graciously served as Faculty Advisor; Dr. Sanker, who led me to many of the research opportunities that impacted my future career goals; and Drs. Hogue and Benyousky, who always believed in me. I am also grateful to all the faculty members that taught me and were always readily available with support and encouragement.
The key to taking full advantage of your Baylor years is to view your time at Baylor not as merely a time to complete graduate school prerequisites or attain a degree, but rather as a time to grow as an individual and discover the type of professional you wish to be. Don’t be afraid to follow your passions and ask for help from faculty and students along the way. The Baylor community is a truly special place where scientific innovation and social justice can thrive side by side. My advice would be to pursue your passions wholeheartedly, and rally this amazing Baylor community in your pursuits. You will find valuable allies, friends, mentors, and mentees along the way. You will also find yourself, and gain the tools to build community and always practice compassion beyond your time here. Sic 'em forever!