Brigader Feature : Nikhil

A founder of Global Medical Brigades chapter at University of Houston, Nikhil Kottapalli, now a medical student, reflects on how GMB impacted his life and how his experience will help him be a better physician for his future patients. “Global Brigades has and always will have a special place in my heart. From my first brigade with GMB at U of H in 2014 in the organization’s infancy to leading a brigade three times bigger the following year. Global Brigades is not just an organization run by students. It is a family of students dedicated to one single mission. To help those, who need help. As a med student, GMB has shaped who I am and shaped what kind of physician I want to be. GMB has shown me the power of compassion and the importance of making a personal connection with your patient. As a medical student, we are taught the importance of a good patient history in making an accurate diagnosis. The lessons and leadership skills I gained over my two brigades have been invaluable and help shape who I am today. Global Brigades is unlike other similar groups in their holistic approach. As an alumni, I am deeply attached to the organization and support it 100%. So much so that I am even helping start a new alumni chapter at my medical school. GMB is a life changing opportunity that helps shape future health care professionals to push themselves to become better individuals.”