Alumni Videos

Why did you join Medical Explorers?

Capt. Justin Carranza, M.D.

I think what I was looking for in the Post was a way to get involved in the community like I mentioned, but also that it affirmed my interest in medical specialties by learning more from speakers who came to talk to our Post and educate us on the different fields and also be involved in emergency response and in  direct patient involvement, which was another opportunity afforded by the Medical Explorers Post: in my case was EMT Basic school which was paid for by a scholarship from the Post.

Laura Haderxhanaj, Epidemiologist

Through the Medical Explorer Post I experienced training in first-aid, CPR, AED and when help is delayed, so I was able to see other aspects of the medical field. I was also introduced to a lot of medical professionals and they shared their experiences and expertise. So through that I think I actually realized that I would rather be on the public health side and prevention.

Alejandra Carrasquillo, DNP-S FNP

I knew I wanted to be a healthcare professional but I wasn’t sure what path life would lead me down. What I can say is that the Post offered me the chance to explore the medical field, the program gave me an opportunity rule out health careers that I didn’t enjoy which ultimately brought me closer to finding my professional direction.

What did you learn about yourself in Medical Explorers?

Capt. Justin Carranza, M.D.

Of all the opportunities, I tried to take advantage of and learn more about myself and my ability to communicate with others and patients and sharpen my skills as a first responder at the time. And I think that led to overall self growth and my belief that I can complete this journey especially with the mentorship that I had at the time.

Laura Haderxhanaj, Epidemiologist

One of the experiences that really helped me was talking to people and learning about their stories. It is really important to know their stories in public health and building trust.

Alejandra Carrasquillo, DNP-S FNP

The experiences that the Post provided again focusing on the value of experience during volunteer service. Medical Explorers provided opportunities to actually contribute to peoples’ health both locally and internationally. The experiences the Post provided, it gave me the opportunity to develop essential communication skills and dealing with the more difficult aspects of medicine like the passing of patients, or the lack of financial resources when on international mission trips. So these experiences, though challenging, did influence and shape the personal that I am today.

How did Medial Explorers make you a better leader?

Laura Haderxhanaj, Epidemiologist

One of the leadership experiences I had was planning and organizing a blood drive at my high school, and it taught me the importance of organizing a large event like that, and how important details and planning, and teamwork are.

Capt. Justin Carranza, M.D.

I think in the first year of Medical Explorers and as a volunteer coordinator was my first leadership role with the organization. That taught me the ability to talk to a number of people and organizations and get organized myself, to keep track of the activities that the organization was involved in, and that translated, I think, going into more interpersonal communication skills that I learned at that point in time that I’ll continue to use in my career.

 Alejandra Carrasquillo, DNP-S FNP

During my final two years as a member of Medical Explorers, I had the privilege of holding both the positions of president and advisor. The leadership positions were incredibly formative and taught me a great deal about responsibility and collaboration, and I learned the importance of teamwork in healthcare and how success is rarely achieved alone. I also realized the value of asking for help when you need it, which not only made me a more effective leader but created a more open and collaborative environment within the group.

What difference has Medical Explorers made in your life and career?

Capt. Justin Carranza, M.D.

I can’t imagine where I would be without my involvement in Medial Explorers. It definitely provided me with mentorship, other colleagues to reach out to, and leadership ability that I use today, that I can’t imagine having those sort of tools and being here without my prior experience with the post.

Alejandra Carrasquillo, DNP-S FNP 

Essentially Medical Explorers helped me find my niche as a healthcare professional. I can say that because of the Medical Explorer program, I know why I’m a healthcare professional and why I need to provide compassionate care to my patients and their families.

What advice do you have for anyone looking into Medical Explorers?

Laura Haderxhanaj, Epidemiologist

I really wish everyone knew about all the great opportunities can can have in the Exploring Program; not just for Medical Explorers, but also other technical professions they have for young people that can really help them figure out what they want to do with their lives and have some great experiences.