Perspective from the Virtuous Healer Honor Society: Meera Nair

As the nomination cycle for the Virtuous Healer Honor Society opens in November, current members share their reflections on being involved in VHHS.

Get to know VHHS student member, Meera Nair, M4!

What is VHHS?

Virtuous Healers Honor Society is an honor society that champions students in the following attributes: altruism, compassion, curiosity, generosity, humility, justice, and moral imagination. 

How did you hear about VHHS?

I first heard about VHHS when my older brother, Krish Nair '21 was at NEOMED. I was in awe to hear about an honor society that celebrates humanism in medicine. I learned more about the organization as an M1 when I volunteered at the Teddy Care Clinic, a VHHS-run community event where kids bring stuffed toys for a mock check-up to ease anxiety about attending doctor's visits. 

What is your favorite part about being a VHHS member?

My favorite part about being a VHHS member is the people! It is such a blessing to be surrounded by like-minded, community-centered people who share a love for service. I am grateful to call many of the VHHS members my friends. 

How does it help you as a student?

Virtuous Healers Honors Society is an esteemed honor society that champions NEOMED students committed to service. It is a prestigious honor that can be highlighted on your residency application. Interviewers can often ask about VHHS. Being recognized for virtues such as compassion and altruism also allows me to discuss their importance in shaping the kind of psychiatrist I aspire to be.

How can students join VHHS?

All M3 students who are currently enrolled and in good academic standing are eligible to be nominated. Peer and faculty nominations open on November 2nd this year! Self-nominations are not permitted and at least one faculty nomination is required for a nominee to be considered. Faculty nominations can be solicited (excluding VHHS faculty advisors - Drs. Fredrickson and Mellott). 

Once nominated, students will be invited to complete a formal application that outlines their community service and an essay that conveys their identity as a virtuous healer while at NEOMED.