Taking a Break from School, Then Telling Her Parents

While studying to become a physician associate, Vanessa decided to take a leave of absence to avoid burning out, but greatly feared disappointing her Colombian parents. And Sunny Nakae, a medical school dean who specializes in access and equity, shares strategies for developing self-compassion while pursuing demanding academic careers.

Our expert this week is Dr. Sunny Nakae, Senior Associate Dean for Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Partnership, and Associate Professor of Medical Education at the California University of Science and Medicine. She is the author of Premed Prep: Advice from a Medical School Admissions Dean. Learn more about her book, here.