Ongoing Self-Discovery with Dr. Jada Bussey Jones

Dr. Jada Bussey-Jones is the Chief of General Medicine and Geriatrics at Emory University, Professor of Medicine and Vice-Chair of Diversity Equity and Inclusion in the Department of Medicine, and the Director for Education for Emory’s Urban Health Initiative, where she has a strong interest in minority health and healthcare disparities. In addition to her local work, Dr. Jones is involved with several regional and national organizations, including serving as the chair of the National Disparities Education Task Force for the Society of General Internal Medicine. Her work has been recognized with several awards, including the American Business Women's Association Award for Community Service, Emory's Nanette Wenger Service Award, and the Society of General Medicine National Award for Mentorship in Education. Self-discovery is not something Dr. Jada Bussey-Jones takes lightly. Today, the Chief of General Medicine and Geriatrics at Emory University’s Grady Memorial Hospital shares her story: She is a Black woman, a descendant of slaves, and a first generation college student. She found that fostering strong relationships with a diverse group of mentors is what kept her afloat after feeling lost in clinical training. Yet, she realized that the onus of mentoring falls on the mentee: As students, we have a responsibility to define our objectives for a mentoring relationship. We must be proactive about setting expectations and scheduling sessions with our mentors. And above all, we must place high value on identifying our passion and setting our own goals. So, as young physicians forging our path, let self-discovery be our guide. Lets get clear on what we really want, and use the tremendous power of mentorship to propel ourselves forward to newer heights. Pearls of Wisdom: 1. Service learning is important. Your role as a physician is broader than just the clinical encounter. 2. There is tremendous power in mentorship. Through being mentored by others, you are able to pursue a journey of continual self-discovery. 3. Be proactive. Pursue mentors and seek to get on their schedule. Work to meet with them on a regular basis.