ElevateMeD Scholar: Fatoumata Jawo

Meet Fatoumata Jawo

ElevateMeD Scholar 2024-25

Fatoumata Jawo discusses her passion for closing language barriers in mental health and why she is pursuing a career in psychiatry.

• Hometown: Serekunda, The Gambia and I grew up in Bronx, New York

• Medical Education: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine

• Undergraduate Education: The City College of New York in Biology and Psychology

• Current Career Plan: Become a child and adolescent psychiatrist, focusing on underserved communities. I aim to advocate for preventive mental health care by empowering young minds to flourish into adulthood. Addressing social determinants of mental health, destigmatizing mental illness, and increasing access to care, particularly in immigrant communities like the one I grew up in, are the core of my passion.

• Specialty Interest: Psychiatry

• I am most proud of my previous role as a college coordinator for a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving underrepresented high school youth. Growing up as a first-generation immigrant in the US without my parents,, I understand the significance of support systems, particularly in after school programs. I was fortunate to have counselors who recognized my potential and encouraged me to push my limits. During my five years as a college coordinator, I aimed to replicate this invaluable support for my students. I worked diligently to foster a robust college-going culture and equipped my students with the necessary skills to navigate life. Witnessing their journey through higher education, career development, and personal growth brings me great joy. Their occasional check-ins to inquire about my progress in medical school serve as a beautiful reminder of the interconnectedness of our journeys through life.

• You might be surprised to know that solo traveling is my passion. There's an undeniable thrill in navigating new countries, where every street corner holds the promise of adventure. It's a mix of fear and excitement that fuels me, pushing me to explore beyond my comfort zone. As I immerse myself in different cultures, religions, and languages, each destination becomes a classroom, teaching me invaluable lessons about the world and its people. But perhaps the most profound discoveries happen within myself. With every solo journey, I peel back layers of self-discovery, gaining a deeper understanding of who I am and what truly matters to me.

• ElevateMeD is… a pillar of support for aspiring physicians from underrepresented minorities, including myself. As a first-generation medical student, the journey sometimes feels daunting. However, ElevatedMeD offers a nurturing community, emphasizing that we're not alone. Instead, we are part of a collective dedicated to our success.