#2022Trojan: Meet Kane Vu, Bachelor of Science in Global Health graduate

Kane Vu earns his Bachelor of Science in Global Health, and is set to earn his Master of Science in Global Medicine in fall 2022.

Why did you choose to pursue your degree?

I chose Global Health because I was intrigued by the idea of learning about health on a global basis. Additionally, I am a pre-medical student, and I wanted a health-oriented major that was different from the STEM pre-med classes I would take for medical school. The major gave me a valuable perspective on health disparities that I will carry into my career in medicine.

What has been your biggest accomplishment?

I think my biggest accomplishment has been my involvement with WorldMed@UPC, a student-led organization with a commitment to philanthropy and global health awareness. I am thankful for the opportunity to lead the club as the co-president, and I made my best friends at USC in the organization. Through our weekly events, such as volunteering at the LA Food Bank, Midnight Mission, and Shower of Hope, I truly believe we have made a difference in the USC community.

What’s an important thing you learned?

One of the best things I learned is how to establish a healthy work-life balance between academic, social, and athletic activities. Since I want to become a doctor, this balance is important to prevent burnout on my long career path. 

What’s one of your favorite memories from your program?

My favorite memories are definitely all the times I spent with the close friends I made at USC. All of the meals in the dining halls, playing cards in the lounges, or just talking late into the night while studying for finals—these are the moments I will always remember. 

What will you miss most and why?

Similar to my favorite memories, I will miss the relationships. There is no other time in life when I can live down the hall from my best friends. I am grateful for these friendships because they gave my college journey meaning. Beyond college being a stepping stone for medical school, my friends made USC home.

What are you doing after graduation?

I will finish the graduate program in the Fall, and I will be applying to medical school in the 2022-2023 cycle.

What do you look forward to in your career?

In my career as a physician, I look forward to integrating Global Health concepts into medicine. The major taught me about health disparities, and I want to become a doctor to work towards solutions for these issues.

I also look forward to developing new relationships in my career. Hopefully I can create meaningful relationships with patients, as well as the many people I will encounter in healthcare. People are at the very heart of medicine; I will remember this as I continue my path to becoming a doctor.

What advice do you have for future grads?

In terms of future advice, I encourage students to enjoy their time as undergraduates. Take as many opportunities as they can but don’t get too concerned with the future. So much of my time in college was spent worrying how one class will impact my future career, and this detracted from appreciating the moment. Many graduates told me that college goes by so fast and it’s true! It does go by fast, so enjoy the time while you have it.