Learning about environmental sustainability at MAI has brought to my attention that the field of healthcare extends beyond the hospital and I have definitely developed a more well rounded view on healthcare.
Rachel Xu ,
MAI Member
What made you join MAI and how long have you been in MAI?
I’ve been in MAI since fall quarter and I wanted to join after hearing about its mission at the Enormous Activities Fair. I didn’t know anything about medical sustainability, but I knew that this was an important issue and one that I wanted to learn about.
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What has been the most rewarding part so far?
I think the most rewarding part has been seeing the real effects of my contributions. Seeing the money saved from a donation that I helped pack during a warehouse shift or attending an event that I helped plan all have enriched my MAI experience.
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What has been the most surprising lesson you’ve learned while at UCLA?
Walking up Bruinwalk after class never gets easier. Never.
What has been your favorite part of MAI?
My favorite part of MAI has actually been being a part of the External Relations committee. It's a really nice environment where everyone just shares the goal of spreading awareness about medical sustainability and I am really excited about the events we’re planning right now!
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What is your ultimate career goal or plans?
One day, I hope to work in medicine, possibly as a pediatrician!
What’s been you favorite class or instructor at UCLA?
I really enjoyed Chem 14AE with Dr. Casey. High school chemistry was not my favorite so I was really nervous to take chemistry at UCLA. But Dr. Casey was the best professor and really made it an enjoyable experience.
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What has MAI taught you about yourself?
Through different panels and events, I have been exposed to many different paths in healthcare and it has helped me try to narrow down which one I may want to take in the future.
Best fast food restaurant and why?
Chipotle! Even though I probably order the most basic bowl, I like having all the options to customize my food.
Favorite Movie/TV Show/Book? And a Netflix recommendation if you have one.
Parks and Recreation is both funny and feel good and I go back to it all the time (in fact I’m actually rewatching it for the third time right now). Hasan Minhaj’s Patriot Act does a really good job of breaking down complicated issues in a light hearted manner so I definitely recommend it!
BPlate or Covel? What's the best Study Sandwich order?
Epicuria. The best Study Sandwich order: toasted whole wheat bread, mozzarella, chicken, spinach, banana peppers, onions, pesto, and the tomato pesto!
Cats or dogs? Sunrise or sunset? Dream job?
I’m a big fan of both, but I probably see myself owning a cat in the future just because they are more independent. I prefer sunsets because I am very much not a morning person. Other than being a doctor, I think it’d be really cool to be a chef.
Other interests?
I like to crochet and recently have been working on a checkered tote bag. Other projects include: hats, bags, and scarves.