Giving Back to the Miller School: Q&A with Dr. Derek Isrow
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This summer, our longitudinal clinical educators (LCEs) share their experiences mentoring the next generation of physicians at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Derek Isrow, M.D.’13, Ph.D.’11, an associate professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, recalls benefiting from the Miller School’s many outstanding professors and mentors during his time as a medical student.
Now, as an alum, faculty member and associate director of the residency program in radiation oncology, he understands the importance of getting involved and paying it forward as a mentor to help the next generation of doctors succeed.
Talk about your experience as an LCE and why you chose to become one.
After finishing residency training and accepting a job at the Miller School, I wanted to get involved in medical education in any way possible. I first worked with students as part of the now-legacy medical education, going over case discussions, physical exam maneuvers and various aspects of medical professionalism, which quickly became the best part of my day-to-day job.
When the NextGenMD program was created, I jumped at the opportunity to join as a full-time LCE. Since then, the last four years have honestly been amazing. Each year, we add another group of students to our medical society families. I get to facilitate, teach and mentor these students as I watch them grow and succeed in ways I never imagined over their journey.
Our first class just matched and graduated this year, and it felt like watching my own children head off to make their way into the world. Being an LCE helps me grow as an educator, physician and, most importantly, as a person. I look forward to every session with my students and I can’t wait to see what their future brings.
Why is having an LCE important to medical students?
Since medical school is rigorous and stressful, the LCE serves as a decompression valve, someone who can lighten their load and be there to listen and help. Our role is that of a facilitator, mentor, teacher and friend in the student’s medical journey. These students form bonds with their LCEs and are able to be themselves, ask important questions and just have an enjoyable experience overall.
What do you want your students to take away from their LCE sessions?
Small-group learning can be a challenge, as every student is unique, with their own strengths and weaknesses. During our sessions, I focus on mutual respect, collaborative exercises, problem solving, critical thinking and ensuring everyone can be heard and express themselves.
I hope my students graduate with the ability to analyze difficult problems or situations, make judgment calls, soothe patients’ worries and provide outstanding medical care while being upstanding pillars in their chosen field.
Any favorite moments/experiences from your time as an LCE that you wish to share?
I will never forget the first time I heard the term Patagucci. The medical school had just provided personalized, embroidered Patagonia UM sweaters, which were very nice looking and quickly earned the title Patagucci amongst the students.
I told my group how great they looked and that I wish I had gotten something similar when I was a student so many years ago. Fast-forward to the last session of the year and my students excitedly gathered around to present me with a non-descript brown bag. Tears came to my eyes as I opened the parcel to unveil my very own personalized Patagucci. I was quickly embraced by a group of very grateful friends. I wear it all the time with great pride as it reminds me of just how much being an LCE means to me.
How does it feel to give back to your alma mater?
I am so grateful for the chance to give back to the Miller School as an LCE. The University of Miami has been a part of my life and my family for so long. It provided me with endless opportunities and amazing memories. I look forward every day to help grow our institution and train the future generations for many years to come, all while bleeding orange and green. GO ‘CANES!
Tags: alumni, Derek M. Isrow, longitudinal clinician educators, medical education, medical students
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