My name is Le Mai and I am a senior at the University of South Carolina. In May 2019, I am graduating with a major in Biological Sciences, a minor in Psychology, and Graduation with Leadership Distinction in Professional and Civic Engagement. My plan after graduation is to attend medical school to become a physician. I hope to specialize in either anesthesiology or dermatology, but I am open to other fields of practice. 

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           Growing up in South Carolina and into a Gamecock family, I was pretty much destined to attend this University. I was ecstatic about the idea of experiencing new things on my own, but also unsure on how to start my journey. My freshman year was not as revealing as I expected it to be. Therefore, in my sophomore year, I decided to apply to be an Orientation Leader with the Office of New Student Orientation. Spending and working the summer with a group of over 60 student leaders opened up a new view of college for me. Within this organization, I found a sense of community and my place on this campus. The confidence that I gained from this experience propelled me to join other student organizations. My junior year I rushed Epsilon Sigma Alpha service sorority. I loved volunteering in high school and I wanted to find a consistent way to volunteer in college. I met many amazing girls in this sorority and my passion for volunteer continued, especially for our philanthropies of St. Jude Children's Hospital and Easter Seals. In my senior year, I became a Peer Leader for University 101, an introductory course for freshmen students transitioning into college. Working with a co-instructor and leading class discussion allowed me to discover my strengths and improve on my weaknesses in a professional sense. During my undergraduate years, all of the student organizations that I have been a part of have highlighted different aspects of my personality and work ethic.

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          The key insights included in this E-portfolio demonstrate lessons and values that I have learned during my time at this University. I chose to focus on the leadership opportunities that have had the most significance on the development of my personal character. I am able to take the information that I have learned, both within the classroom and beyond the classroom, and apply them to pursue my dream career of becoming a doctor. My key insights are:

• ​The Best "Me" is Situational

• Personal Improvement in Social Contexts

• The Value of Small Successes

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          As a current pre-medical student, my leadership section focuses on the creation of a specific pre-medical major within the College of Arts and Sciences. It is designed to ensure that students are completing prerequisite courses while engaging in clinical experience to put them on a successful path towards medicine. 

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          I hope to use the values and leadership skills that I have gained from my undergraduate experiences in my future profession as a doctor. My top priority is to enter every situation and determine what is the best option for my patients. I look forward to building relationships with colleagues, creating a positive work environment, and promoting the safety and well-being of others. All of my undergraduate opportunities have shaped my personal qualities and professional attributes for the better.