Perspective from the Virtuous Healer Honor Society: Shannon Lam
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, Shannon Lam, M4!
What is VHHS?
VHHS is an honor society that recognizes students and faculty who are virtuous healers, encompassing characteristics like altruism, compassion, and humility.
How did you hear about VHHS?
I first heard of VHHS during my M1 year when I volunteered at the Teddy Care Clinic. I knew I wanted to be a part of a group of students who all shared a commitment towards social justice and who all wanted to bring that practice into medicine. The earlier classes of VHHS have been comprised of medical students (now doctors!) who I have found inspiring for their dedication to service.
What is your favorite part about being a VHHS member?
My favorite part is the community! I love getting to work alongside my peers and faculty members who I have looked up to throughout my time at NEOMED. It’s great getting to have a group of students who have so many ideas about service projects and who are always willing to start a new project.
How does it help you as a student?
I get to learn from my peers about the different ways I can provide service to the community and I get to continue to deepen my commitment in social justice. In the fourth year of medical school, everyone starts to spread out for their away rotations and electives. But being a part of VHHS has been great in uniting all of us together no matter where we are.
How can students join VHHS?
Students are nominated by their peers and faculty during their third year of medical school. If they are nominated, they will be invited to apply and to submit an application that showcases their leadership and commitment to service throughout medical school. If you are interested, feel free to reach out to any of the members in VHHS if you have questions! We are looking forward to meeting the next class of virtuous healers!