He majored in molecular biology at the University of Central Florida, studied hard, and maintained a strong GPA. But he didn’t receive the scores he’d hoped for on his MCAT, and his applications to Florida medical schools were met with rejection letters.
“After a while, those words, ‘We regret to inform you,’ they just go through your mind. It starts to affect your self-worth, your confidence, and your outlook on the process,” said Dr. Johnson. “I’m here to tell you today, don’t let those games play on your mind.”
Today, Dr. Johnson is a cardiothoracic surgeon at Mercy Health in Cincinnati, OH.
The AUC alumnus joined two graduates from Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) for a webinar on “Increasing Access & Inclusion in Medicine” during Black History Month. In the webinar, they shared their personal journeys to becoming physicians, their experiences as Black medical students, and their perspectives on the importance of diversity and inclusion in medicine.
“Our presence inspires the younger community—seeing that someone who looks like them can become a physician,” said Dr. Johnson.
Dr. Johnson emphasized how he has strived to use setbacks as motivation to succeed. Even after a college professor questioned his aptitude for a career in medicine, Dr. Johnson didn’t allow himself to be discouraged in pursuing his childhood dream.
“Your success may look limited when you’re met with obstacles in the present, but if you keep pushing you will achieve,” he said.
Learn more by watching the full webinar recording.
