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“One thing I wish they taught better in medical school is the value of authenticity.”

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As Dr. Minh Nguyen reflects on her 11 years in private practice this August, she invites us on a journey—one that begins not in a clinic or operating room, but in her childhood and immigrant roots. Arriving in the U.S. at the age of nine, Dr. Nguyen’s early life was shaped by her family’s pursuit of the American Dream—a vision of stability, honor, and success that mirrored the aspirations of many immigrant families. For her, this dream was more than just a desire; it was a commitment to make her parents’ sacrifices meaningful, a promise to herself to succeed.

Yet, while the goal of becoming a physician was clear, the path to authenticity was anything but straightforward. It wasn’t until she found herself, somewhat unexpectedly, in a leadership class at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) that she began to explore the deeper layers of her journey. Looking around the room, she felt like an outsider—a young post-baccalaureate student surrounded by seasoned professionals who appeared far more established and confident. What could she possibly have in common with these individuals, she wondered?

But it was in this space of unfamiliarity that she discovered something invaluable: the power to question. The course was more than just a class on leadership; it became a gateway to introspection, a lens through which Dr. Nguyen learned to critically examine the world around her—and most importantly, herself. This was the moment she realized that being a physician wasn’t solely about mastering clinical knowledge or performing technical procedures. It was about owning who she was, her voice, her values, and her personal truth.

Dr. Nguyen advises young medical students to embrace this process of self-questioning, urging them to reflect deeply on the choices they make in their careers. “If you are not authentic,” she warns, “you will struggle in any place you end up.” Authenticity, she believes, is not just an admirable quality; it is a survival skill, particularly in a profession as demanding as medicine. It is what allows a physician to connect with patients, to stand firm in their values, and to find fulfillment even amid the inevitable pressures of the job.

Today, Dr. Nguyen’s authenticity shines through in every aspect of her life. As a doctor serving the Vietnamese community, she offers not only medical care but a deep understanding of the cultural and linguistic nuances. As a mother, Dr. Nguyen is intentional about fostering that same authenticity in her children, teaching them to honor their heritage while also forging their own paths. She understands that for her children, the balance between tradition and self-expression will be key to their growth. As an Asian American woman in medicine, Dr. Nguyen embodies the resilience and grace that comes with navigating multiple identities.

Her story is not just one of professional success but of personal triumph—a reminder that true fulfillment comes not from adhering to external standards, but from staying true to oneself.