Dara Safizadeh

UConn School of Dental Medicine, Class of 2021

I grew up in Cambridge, MA, and attended Cambridge Public Schools until I went off to the University of Massachusetts Amherst. I obtained my bachelor of science in Environmental Design and completed a second major in History and graduated in 2012. I also completed a post- baccalaureate program at the Harvard Extension School before coming to school at UConn.

I have volunteered at Mt. Auburn Hospital since spring of 2013 where I have been able to log more than 450 hours. Volunteering over the last three years has taught me a lot. It has granted me a realistic first hand perspective of emergency care. I have seen quiet days, very busy days, and everything in between. It has exposed me to some of the challenges staff members face on a daily basis. For example, non-compliant patients or patients that despite everyone’s best efforts could not be saved. In addition, volunteering has demonstrated the stamina and endurance needed to work in such a setting. Notably, it has also highlighted that the quality of care that the patient receives is highly dependent on teamwork. Being able to work effectively with others is critical to success in the emergency room. My position as a volunteer allowed me a unique opportunity to view the patient’s interaction with the various staff and doctors from start to finish. I was able to observe some medical procedures and provide a helping hand where necessary. Overall, my experience volunteering increased my curiosity and inspired me further. The relationships with doctors, nurses, staff, and patients I have been able to foster over time at Mt. Auburn have made it clear that this is the work I personally find very meaningful and wish to one day be privileged to provide.

I sought to join the Urban Service Track because it aligns with my interests and passions that were fostered during my time volunteering at Mt. Auburn Hospital. The program grapples with the very issues I observed as a volunteer in regard to underserved populations and the difficulties they face in getting the care they need. The nature of our healthcare system does not ensure equal care and access for all and thus these types of programs are critically important. In addition, from my studies in Environmental Design which was a very interdisciplinary field I have a strong appreciation for the collaboration the Urban Service Track provides. The Urban Service Track will provide me countless volunteer and community outreach opportunities all under the umbrella of my interest in the urban underserved population that I was first exposed to during my time in the emergency room. These opportunities will be great learning experiences and help to ensure more accessibility to care for the underserved.