The Summary:
"Becoming Dr. Q: My Journey from Migrant Farm Worker to Brain Surgeon" is a memoir by Dr. Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa, commonly known as Dr. Q. The book chronicles his remarkable life journey from a humble background as a migrant farm worker in Mexico to becoming a world-renowned neurosurgeon in the United States. Dr. Q's story is one of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
The book highlights his early struggles as an immigrant in the United States, including the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language, and the grueling work in the fields. Despite these hardships, he managed to complete his education and ultimately attended Harvard Medical School. His inspirational journey takes readers through the demanding world of medical training and the complexities of neurosurgery, where he developed groundbreaking techniques for brain tumor surgery. "Becoming Dr. Q" not only provides insights into the medical field but also delves into the emotional and personal aspects of Dr. Q's life, including his relationships and the sacrifices he had to make. It is a story of hope, resilience, and the belief that with dedication and the pursuit of one's dreams, anyone can overcome adversity and make a significant impact on the world. The book serves as a testament to the power of education and the human spirit in overcoming adversity to achieve greatness.
Suggestions for Classroom Use:
Denise’s favorite chapter is Chapter 4, “Lessons from the Field.” She believes it is well worth the read-a-loud or podcast (may be found on audible and You-Tube) in an upper division class or HOSA Future Health Professionals leadership meeting.
Dr. Q describes the lessons he learned from the working in the fields as a migrant worker – from picking various crops, to moving irrigation lines. His ability to describe the personal challenges as he learned these life’s lessons is poignant and moving. Engaging in manual labor, such as picking crops, moving sprinkler pipe, and running electrical wire, instills valuable qualities that can contribute to someone becoming a neurosurgeon. The discipline required for physical labor cultivates a strong work ethic and perseverance, qualities essential in the demanding field of neurosurgery. Additionally, the hands-on experiences develop fine motor skills and spatial awareness, skills crucial for surgical precision. Working in diverse environments fosters adaptability, a trait beneficial when navigating the complexities of medical practice. Moreover, manual labor often involves problem-solving, a skill directly applicable to diagnosing and addressing intricate neurological issues. The resilience and practical skills developed through manual labor can complement the intellectual rigor of medical education, offering a unique perspective and well-rounded foundation for aspiring neurosurgeons.
Let’s take a look at specific examples for Chapter 4.
Dr. Q. stated he needed to get used to starting over every time he moved. He stated that he would have answer to a different boss or owner and find his place with a new set of co-workers. (Page 70) This might lead to discussions on resiliency and flexibility along with the ability to work well with others
“I decided that I would embrace, even celebrate, the hardships and see them as educational”. “I had to figure it out how to take it in stride and excel at it.” (Pages 70-71) This might lead to discussions on resiliency and grit. Working to literally get the job done with a good attitude.
“The physical toll included exhaustion, discomfort, and lots of pain, but the real challenge was the mental test – the need to confront my fear of the discomfort, the dread that the hours would elapse too slowly, my resistance to the sheer monotony.” (Page 71) The book continues about his ability first to daydream and then to make plans and to promise himself that these were all stepping stones to a better future. It lends itself well to discuss with students that school and studying may be monotonous but to think of it as building blocks for a great future.
“I learned with focus came patience.” (Page 72) Dr. Q showed how with perseverance and control of one’s thoughts, one could learn new skills. His new skill was patience. Students can discuss other things that could be learned such as a positive attitude.
An excellent educational tool for instructing students is the use of the PROPS acronym to facilitate decision-making. As an educator, you can opt to employ PROPS to analyze Dr. Q's choices, as outlined in the aforementioned scenarios. Subsequently, you can encourage students to apply the PROPS method to different situations, either those they propose or a personal challenge they are facing.
Making Decisions with PROPS
Making decisions can sometimes be straightforward, while others may be challenging because a person might have mixed feelings, seeing advantages in different choices. The PROPS method can be a valuable tool when you face a dilemma and aren't sure which way to go.
Step 1: Pause Pause – Take a moment to breathe deeply. Remind yourself that you have the capability to work through this situation. A positive mindset can greatly assist in the decision-making process.
Step 2: Reflect Reflect on the situation. Clearly define the decision that needs to be made.
Step 3: Options Examine your available options. Even if it seems like you have no alternatives, in reality, you do. Consider the potential benefits and risks associated with each option, as well as the potential outcomes and consequences.
Step 4: Prioritize Prioritize your options based on your values. Determine what matters most to you. Assess what's at stake concerning your short-term and long-term objectives.
Step 5: Select & Evaluate Choose the most suitable option for you, make your decision, and then take a moment to reflect on the results. Were they in line with what you ultimately desired?
(Original Source for PROPS is unknown. Activities in a Pinch did not create PROPS).
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