Creating a Professional identity

Even after graduating from medical school I could not believe that I was a real doctor. I had lived with this goal for so many years that it took more than a ceremony to make it real to me. But a few months after receiving my M.D. the moment of realization came. My mother and I were shopping and she met some friends. I was introduced: “My daughter, the doctor…” I had made it… I was real… In spite of all the statistical odds against women becoming physicians, and the doubts I was continually confronted with, I had gotten through.

Consider these facts: Over half of the population are women, yet only six percent of the nation's physicians are women. Some time between childhood and college most women give up the hopes they might have had of going into medicine, or into any profession for that matter. What happens? How do women become diverted away from professional careers? What are some of the problems women face being and becoming professionals, particularly in becoming physicians.

Everyone has heard stories of “My son, the doctor.” Boys that show an early interest in medicine are usually enthusiastically encouraged, financially and emotionally. Girls with similar ideas, however, are regarded with disbelief if not with downright suspicion. (What's wrong? Doesn't she want to get married and have a family? Is she a lesbian or something?)

My own experience was typical. When I was a senior in high school I began thinking about becoming a doctor. My parents became rather “concerned” and took me to our family physician. He was also “concerned,” in spite of my excellent grades, interests in biology, and desire to help others. He suggested that I look into occupational or recreational therapy. He elaborated on the sacrifices and the dedication and the extreme hardships on women who went into medicine. I was resigned. It was too much in those years for me to assert myself against my family doctor and my parents, and so I gave up this “fantasy.” I went to college the next year to