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Dr. Charla Nicole Burns
Physician, CDC Foundation COVID-19 Emergency Response Staff
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Never give up!
WHAT DO YOU DO?
My residency training was in the field of internal medicine. I currently work as a staff member for the COVID-19 emergency response.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD?
I decided in high school that I wanted to be a physician. I always loved math and science and wanted to make a positive difference in the world. Despite both of my parents being educators, I wanted to pursue my own path. The COVID-19 pandemic led me to my current position in public health.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT & THINK, "I WISH YOUNGER ME WOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WAS POSSIBLE?"
I wish I had known that you don't have to be a science major as a undergraduate student to pursue a career in medicine. Despite my love for math and science, I also enjoyed art, music, and politics.
WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN STEM?
For far too long, women, especially those of color, have been underrepresented in STEM. It brings joy to my heart knowing that I have defied the odds and broken many barriers. Little girls can see themselves in me and that inspires them to pursue a field that has been dominated by men.
BEST ADVICE FOR NEXT GENERATION?
Never give up!
INSPO / FUN FACT
Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.