Leader Spotlight: Michela Tomlinson
Today’s spotlight is AMSA member and leader Michela Tomlinson! At the California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo AMSA Chapter, she has served as both the Treasurer and the Fundraising Coordinator. She served as AMSA’s National Programming Coordinator on the Professionalism and Ethics Action Committee.
Why did you join AMSA?
I joined AMSA in February 2017 at the AMSA National Convention in Washington, D.C. I had been to other premedical and medical conferences in the past, but none had inspired me quite like this one. I remember in a General Session speech, Dr. Leana Wen spoke about her experience as health commissioner for Baltimore City, Maryland. She said, “People talk about choice but they have to remember that choice was predicated on privilege.” I immediately thought that this was an organization that I wanted to be a part of.
Why did you become an AMSA leader?
I became an AMSA leader because I think that I can really make a difference in this organization. I think that AMSA is an empowering organization that truly strives to uplift premedical and medical students. I appreciate its efforts to achieve global health equity, diversity, and affordable health care for all and I cannot wait to add to this.
What is your favorite AMSA moment?
My favorite AMSA moment happened during Lobby Day at AMSA’s National Convention. We were out on the lawn in front of Hart Senate Building about to head out to meet with our representatives. The weather was beautiful and the speakers were inspiring. I was impressed with the solidarity that people had to DACA students, the ACA and to Planned Parenthood. I was proud to represent AMSA and to represent the future of our nation.
What advice would you give to current & future AMSA leaders?
The best advice I can give is to be unafraid to challenge the system. Just because something has been in effect since the beginning of time does not make it right. You too can make all the difference in the world.
Do you know of an AMSA Member and Leader who deserves to be recognized? Do you want to share your leadership story with other AMSA members? Share your story for consideration! Selected leaders will be featured on AMSA’s On Call blog.
