Ishani Patel

Hometown: Palm City, FL

High School: Martin County High School

FSU Major: Biology

FSU Minor: Chemistry

What do you like about HMSS?

Honors Medical Scholars Society is nothing short of a family at Florida State University. I've met so many kind and intelligent people and made so many amazing friends. HMSS allows me to immerse myself in a service-based environment and grow as an aspiring medical student, without ever having to feel alone! In addition, we are incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to interact with knowledgeable and passionate advisors who are willing to guide us through every step of the way.

Why do you want to go into medicine?

Growing up, I always had to witness family members in India suffer from the effects of a faulty healthcare system. Consequently, I began to recognize the one feeling I disliked the most: feeling helpless when others were in need. Throughout high school, I pursued countless health care opportunities through volunteering at hospice, maintaining leadership roles in Health Occupation Students of America, and enrolling in the Academy of Health Sciences. It is my true belief that life is a gift, and it is a gift to be cherished. I believe that having the opportunity to improve the quality of life for others -- whether they be residents of the United States or citizens of developing nations such as my own family -- is a true honor. Throughout my journey here at Florida State University and beyond, I sincerely hope to evolve into a deserving leader who can spend the rest of her life learning, growing, and improving the quality of healthcare while doing what she loves every day.