Stop by and introduce yourself to @Avery Levinger as a preclerkship Coordinator at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He has been in his role for the past 2+ years. Avery is young professional who is excited to adding to the world of medicine. We're thrilled to showcase his impactful work this month! Join us in exploring our #MemberSpotlight and delving into Avery's inspiring journey!
If you’re viewing this Member Spotlight as a non-member of the community, won’t you consider joining us?
Why do you think engaging in the AAMC Virtual Community is important?
I believe engaging in the AAMC Virtual Communities is essential for advancing medical education. It offers unparalleled networking opportunities, enabling us to connect with peers, mentors, and leaders, leading to meaningful collaborations, knowledge-sharing, and career advancement. From the discussion boards to the volunteer portal to the mentor/mentee program, it fosters a collaborative and supportive environment where members can seek solutions to both new and ongoing challenges that enhance our learning environments. Personally, my involvement in the AAMC Virtual Community has led to significant professional development opportunities. I find it a valuable tool for staying aware of conversations happening in other areas of medical education, such as in the GSA and GIA. Additionally, the social media-like interface makes it simple for members to navigate and use the platform effectively.
Do you have a professional skill or area of expertise that might be of particular interest to your peers in this community?
Process improvement and development, project management, and strategic vision and planning. My ability to streamline operations, optimize processes, and develop innovative solutions has made me the go-to person at my institution for advice and expertise in these areas. I excel at identifying inefficiencies and implementing effective strategies that enhance productivity and overall organizational performance.
What should people in the virtual community contact you about?
Smartsheet, Process Improvement, Policy Development, Strategic Planning
What was the best book you most recently read (or TV show/movie) that you watched?
The best book I recently read is "Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI" by Dr. Ethan Mollick. It explores how artificial intelligence can be integrated into our daily lives and workplaces, emphasizing the collaborative potential between humans and AI. Mollick discusses practical applications of AI, providing real-world examples across various industries. Two key takeaways from the book are the importance of ethical considerations in AI use, such as data privacy and bias, and the need for individuals to develop new skills to effectively work alongside AI technologies. Ethan Mollick is one of the brightest minds in the industry, and this is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding and leveraging the transformative power of AI.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you have ever received?
"Seek out and embrace feedback." Being open to feedback from colleagues and supervisors helps identify strengths and areas for improvement. This approach refines skills, enhances performance, strengthens team relationships, demonstrates humility, and is a key part of a growth mindset.
What’s the worst piece of professional advice you have ever received?
The worst professional advice I've ever received is to "Stay in your lane." While understanding when to stay on line is important, this advice discourages stepping outside your defined role, limiting your growth and potential contributions. It stifles creativity, innovation, and the chance to learn new skills or gain diverse experiences. This mindset can spoil ambition and hinder both personal and professional development.
What do you think is the best, most challenging, or most unique thing about working in academic medicine (or your field or specialty specifically)?
One of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of working in academic medicine is the dynamic integration of education, research, and clinical practice. This field offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of healthcare through innovative research and the training of new healthcare professionals.
Medical education currently faces several critical issues. One significant challenge is adapting to rapidly evolving medical knowledge and technology, necessitating continuous curriculum updates and incorporating new teaching methods. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring that future medical professionals can provide equitable care to diverse populations.
Another pressing issue is the mental health and well-being of medical students and trainees, who often experience high levels of stress and burnout. Balancing rigorous academic demands with personal wellness is crucial for maintaining a healthy and effective learning environment.
Lastly, the increasing cost of medical education poses a barrier for many aspiring physicians, potentially limiting the diversity of the medical workforce. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions and a commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and forward-thinking educational environment.
Did you have an unusual path to your current career?
I think I've taken an interesting path in my career. After 6 years in the US Army as a Military Policeman, I worked as an Admin Assistant at another health system in St. Louis before starting at Saint Louis University School of Medicine in April 2022.
Do you have pets?
I have a 4-year-old Aussiedor (Australian Shepherd Labrador Retriever Mix) named Macey!
What’s the weirdest food you’ve ever eaten?
I am an EXTREMELY picky eater, so I would say squid, and even that took a lot of courage to do!
Say Hello to Avery here in the community! Feel free to post any questions you have for him in this blog post, or direct messages via the community are also a great way to connect.
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