The person I decided to job shadow is Thomas Pappas, a chiropractor who mainly works in Chicago, Illinois. I originally met Dr. Pappas when he fit me for a SpineCor brace for my scoliosis, however since then he has partnered and helped patients and doctors all over the world. I learned many things from Dr. Pappas, especially when the topic of spinal health came up. Since I want to become an orthopedic surgeon, he gave information and a different view when it came to how important our spine is. While conversing with him, I was able to connect the knowledge I learned at Oak Hill to how exercise is also important for our functioning spines. Dr. Pappas strongly believes that by making sure your spine is strong and healthy then the rest of your body will be too. 

 

Out of all the questions I asked Dr. Pappas, what really stood out to me was his belief that not all care has to come out of a hospital. Looking in the past, Dr. Pappas never worked in a hospital to treat patients. Hearing him describe his work and how much he enjoys traveling to his patients, rather than his patients traveling to him, opened my eyes to how healthcare isn’t bound to one place. The hospital can be a very scary place for some people and Dr. Pappas realizes that. He told me how much he enjoys his job, especially with the diverse community in Chicago where he is able to learn different languages. I have learned that giving care is the most important part between a doctor and his/her patient, not the location. Dr. Pappas did say that if I do pursue to become a surgeon, I am not bound to a hospital forever. He informed me that I can travel and help people all around the world, although it will be overwhelming and stressful, that it is a self-rewarding opportunity.