ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Andrene Campbell ’10

My favorite medical school memory is the weekend retreat with my classmates. I had the honor of winning the talent show for vocal performance. It was a beautiful weekend filled with fun, laughter, and camaraderie. It was a blessing to reflect on our path as future doctors and the importance of our own spirituality.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR SPECIALITY?

I went into medical school knowing that I would go into psychiatry. I was always intrigued by the intricacies of the human mind. In psychiatry, the answers are not always clear-cut. It is a privilege to help untangle the nuances to reach the core issue causing distress to an individual.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE TO FIND HOPE AFTER TRAGEDY?

In tragedy, there is always a lesson to be learned. I lost my grandmother two years ago. She was the strong, praying matriarch of the family. Her prayers directly influenced the successes of her family members. Her death reminded me that in each generation, there needs to be someone who takes the role of matriarch or patriarch and is the praying force behind the family unit.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES AND INTERESTS?

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my beautiful daughters, singing, and traveling. I recently discovered an interest in art and have been using painting as a therapeutic outlet.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU AND KEEP YOU GOING ON ROUGH DAYS?

What motivates me during the rough days is the understanding that, “This too shall pass.” There is no problem too great that cannot be resolved ultimately, even if solving the problem takes some time. I also provide myself with grace by not overwhelming myself with multiple issues at once.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED?

The best advice I ever received is, “Don’t make a mountain out of a molehill.”

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR STUDENTS AND YOUNG PHYSICIANS?

My advice for students and young physicians is that each day that you practice, you are developing in confidence and competence. Believe in your competence! You are where you are because you are more than capable. Take time not only to learn from your supervisors but also to learn from your patients. Take the time to listen and be kind to your patients, even when you are having a rough day. Often, a single interaction with a physician can shape the way an individual views the institution of medicine and the patient’s own sense of self-worth.