A Washington Heights, New York native, Amber Hamilton, C’16, is on the path to becoming a doctor after studying the biological basis of behavior at Penn. Early life experiences and interactions sparked an interest in medicine for Hamilton, who has had over 17 surgeries for a rare bone disorder, X-linked hypophosphatemia. She formed a special bond with her surgeon, S. Robert Rozbruch, C’85, during her complex reconstruction surgeries, and began a lifelong interest that led her on a career to becoming an orthopedic surgeon.
How has being a Penn alumna shaped your career?
Going to Penn was one of the best decisions I have ever made. My time at the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory as a sophomore allowed me to explore my interest and then I spent two gap years between Penn and medical school at McKay. I gained invaluable insight into what it means to study a subject from bench to bedside and decided to focus on clinical research now that I’m a medical student.
What inspires you to stay positive and motivated?
I’m fortunate to be in a field that I love. It’s easy to go to work each day as the best version of myself. Work is all about the people—my classmates, doctors, nurses, patients, mentors, and mentees. I am extremely passionate about teaching and ensuring that those who come after me will have the guidance to succeed. I’ve had to overcome so many obstacles in my life—I’m no stranger to failure. It’s not always easy to pick myself up during difficult times. Having experienced this, I try to create a supportive, uplifting environment in every space I enter.
What is the best career advice you have received?
President Barack Obama once said, “If you can keep it about the work, you’ll always have a path. There’s always something to be done.” My path to medicine has not been an easy one. There have been many times when I felt like I wanted to be in medicine so badly, but medicine didn’t want me. I’ve missed school because of my surgeries. I’ve struggled in key courses. It wasn’t until I started working with patients that the root of Obama’s message resonated. I realized that this work has little to do with me. It’s about the patients I serve, the people whose lives will change, and the students who will be inspired to achieve their own dreams.
Did you receive mentorship at Penn? If so, how have you paid that forward for other students?
For me, mentorship started in Sweeten Alumni House. I was an Alumni Weekend volunteer and connected with lots of alumni. I’m still in touch with some of them. As a class ambassador, I was also mentored by Penn staff, who gave me much-needed support and became genuinely invested in my success. Dr. S. Robert Rozbruch, the surgeon who performed all my surgeries, has also played an important role in my life. These are just a few of the amazing people in my corner who continue to cheer me on. I understand how critical mentorship and guidance are. Sometimes I’m overwhelmed by all the mentees I take on. But ultimately it is one of the most fulfilling things I do. No matter how busy I am, I always make time to help those around me achieve their goals.
