Marie Altagrace Medastin

Student Registered Nurse Anesthetist
University of North Florida, Class of 2013

While researching minorities in anesthesia during my first year of anesthesia school, I came across Dr. Lena Gould’s name in various online articles. When I heard her name during a session at my first AANA meeting, I had to introduce myself. During that introduction, Dr. Gould gave me her email address and informed me that I could contact her anytime. Weeks later, I sent her an email. Forty five minutes from the time I sent the initial email, she emailed back with her phone number. Twenty minutes later, I called her, and had one of the best conversations with a CRNA since starting anesthesia school. Dr. Gould and the Diversity in Nurse Anesthesia Mentorship Program has truly been a blessing to me. Prior to getting involved in DNAMP, my journey through anesthesia school was definitely a struggle. The members of DNAMP are devoted to mentoring not only minorities but also anyone interested in anesthesia. They are always a phone call, text message, or email away. Through the DNAMP, I have had the opportunity to network with people I probably would not have had to opportunity to meet without DNAMP. I have had the chance to complete research that will most likely extend to a doctoral degree. Lastly, I have gained relationships that will last a lifetime. My only regret is not finding out about the DNAMP sooner. Dr. Lena Gould truly is, ‘The Bomb Dot Com.’