SWAS: What are three essential things that tweens/ teens should keep in mind if they want to pursue a career in medicine?
Dr. Helena Bentley:
1. Be true to yourself, and always do your best in whatever you are doing.
2. Have balance. Don't just excel academically but also be involved in some other activities, like sports, social clubs or volunteering.
3. Don't give in to peer pressure. "Keep your eye on the prize."
SWAS: How did you determine your area of specialty while in medical school?
Dr. Helena Bentley: I didn't choose pediatrics, it chose me. It's my calling. I did well in every specialty, but when it came time to apply for residency and weighed the pros and cons, pediatrics came out on top.
SWAS: What is one of your favorite things about being a doctor?
Dr. Helena Bentley: My patients make what I do worthwhile. I love being of service to them.
SWAS: How does it feel to be an underrepresented minority in the medical field? And, what challenges have you faced along the way?
Dr. Helena Bentley: I don't worry too much about the opinions of others, especially since they don't provide for me. Just smile when they recognize how smart you are. My biggest challenge was being "blackballed" by my college advisor. He did not stop me, only delayed my admission. I did get in with the help of someone else, and I graduated with honors from medical school.
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