Second-year medical student Laura Flores is one of nine finalists in the Walls Do Talk Challenge sponsored by She Leads Healthcare and Harvard University.
The contest is focused on creating an anti-bias learning environment in medical schools. Submissions are the student’s vision of what a typical medical school or hospital-affiliated portrait wall would look like in that context.
Flores, who is part Hispanic, chose a portrait style photograph of herself studying at a table next to large plate glass windows in the Sorrell Center.
Flores said she wanted to participate in the challenge for a few reasons. A native of New Mexico, which has a large Hispanic population, Flores said she never really felt different until she moved to Nebraska after being accepted in the M.D./Ph.D. program at UNMC.
It was during her first year at UNMC Flores said she began to hear unflattering statements that alluded to the only reason she was admitted to medical school was due to her race and not her ability.
“I entered as a way to shine light on the additional pressure I think many minority students feel, not only to be seen as competent, but to prove we were admitted to UNMC for a reason,” Flores said.
Since entering the contest, Flores said she has received a lot of support.
“I was truly nervous about applying to this contest, and worried that my classmates and colleagues might view me differently, but the outpouring of support I have received has been amazing,” Flores said.
The public is invited to vote through Nov. 30 on their favorite wall concept here.
Way to go, Laura!!
So proud of you Laura!!!!!!!! Way to lead.
To Laura and all the other women of UNMC like her: YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH! When the quiet voice inside or the crushing voices from outside interfere with our plans for success, reach out! There are many women and men on our campus who are aiming higher, better, further – that's the tribe for you!
Congratulations from CAST! You are a truly capable clinician/scientist in training. You proved that this last summer . . .
You deserve the best, Miss Flores! ¡Adelante!
Nice job, Laura! We are here to support you. As a co-advisor for Graduates & Professionals Representing Achievement, Diversity and Service (GRADS)- WE WELCOME YOU.
GRADS is a student created-organization that seeks to connect minority students across UNMC's campus and we are a group who welcomes all UNMC students. You can do this and we are here to support you in fulfilling your career goals!
It is very disturbing that anyone should question the credentials of a student based on their gender or background, and this entry is an eloquent expression of the poisonous nature of this kind of thinking. It is especially ironic given the scrutiny given to applicants for the MD/PhD program. We consider ourselves very fortunate that you accepted our offer to come to UNMC!
You inspire me with your courage everyday.
So thrilled to see your nomination amongst many wonderful and talented folks across the county. You’re a wonderful example of hard work and perseverance. Congrats Laura, you’re doing wonderful things.
I voted for you! And I support you! I second Dr. Jones comments below.
As a clinical social worker, I believe what you have done is an awesome way to empower yourself, women, other Latinas and anyone else who may feel the bigotry you were subject to in school. I’m sorry you were hurt by the insesnsitive ignorance of another student. Stay strong!