Alexander Williams, M.D., Class of 2020

For decades, historically, Native Americans who chose to go into the medical profession were directed into primary care. I have chosen a different path, that of being an anesthesiologist

I feel that the education I received at the Wayne State University School of Medicine is second to none. In addition to the academics, there are a lot of different things that were always going on. From day one, I was impressed with the level of diversity in the student body. There were students from all types of different background.

For decades, historically, Native Americans who chose to go into the medical profession were directed into primary care. I have chosen a different path, that of being an anesthesiologist. I am not sure, but I may be the first Native American anesthesiologist in the United States and the world. But when you think about it, imagine the impact it will be on my Native American patients who are full of mistrust and fear, but have to have a surgery, and they see me there, helping to prepare them for the surgery, the sense of relief and calm that will come over them and the improvement in health outcome they that they will experience.

The Wayne State University School of Medicine wanted me and that empowered me to be successful at WSU and in the rest of my medical career. I will continue to support and mentor Native American students who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine.