Black History Month Spotlight: Megan Campbell
Thursday, February 2, 2023
Media Contact: Sara Plummer | Communications Coordinator | 918-561-1282 | sara.plummer@okstate.edu
Megan Campbell, OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine first year medical student
Where are you from?
Luther, Oklahoma
Why did you want to be doctor?
Growing up I went to the doctor quite often and saw many physicians in a variety of specialties. However, during that time I only encountered one physician who looked like me — Dr. Thomas Scott. He was the best doctor I have ever had. He listened to what was going on with me, answered all my questions and never failed to understand how my culture played a role in who I was as his patient. I was inspired at that moment and knew that I wanted to be a doctor who can serve other individuals who look like me and provide them with the care and advocacy that they deserve.
Did that influence your decision to go into medicine?
My decision was influenced by not seeing many physicians who looked like me. I know what it feels like to not have that, and it is my intention to change that outcome for the generations following me.
Were you encouraged to pursue medicine by teachers, professors, family and friends? If so, what did that mean to you?
My family were the biggest supporters of me pursuing medicine. Throughout the entire journey they have been my mental, emotional and physical support system. Each step of the way they have been there to comfort me and encourage me to continue to pursue my passion. In addition, my college advisor Martha Caldas was my biggest advocate at school. She pushed me to excel in my courses and try new things all while reminding me to take care of myself. The love and support of my family and Martha Caldas is the reason that I did not give up during the journey that led me here. Their encouragement and listening ears mean the world to me and I am so grateful to have them in my life.
Why is diversity important in medicine and health care?
Diversity is integral in medicine because the healthcare field should look like the world around us — filled with people from different walks of life, races and ethnicities who work alongside each other. I know from personal experience that patients thrive when their health care workers look like them. Due to past experiences people can be hesitant to visit the doctor, so by seeing someone who shares similarities with them it might encourage patients to seek help and improve their health outcomes.