The University of Nebraska System has released the newest episode of its "Heart to Heart" podcast series. Hosted by University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., the podcast features in-depth conversations with leaders, educators, researchers, alumni and university partners that get to the heart of how the University of Nebraska makes a difference.
This month, President Gold is joined by Brock Calamari, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Calamari, originally from Illinois, earned his undergraduate degree in forensic biology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
At UNMC, he has served as a College of Medicine senator for the past three years, where he has been active in writing resolutions on state legislation, renewing election rules and volunteering at senate events. Now, as student body president and one of NU's four student regents, Calamari is working to amplify the voice of his peers on campus and at the state level.
Calamari's journey into the medical profession began with an early interest in forensic biology and was solidified after a unique first-hand experience in the field.
"I shadowed at a coroner's office in Illinois to see the lay of the land. I had seen documentaries on the practice before, and I wanted to see what it looked like in real life," he said. "The experience really showed me how this niche part of medicine is so important to public health and public safety."
In his role as UNMC's student body president and student regent, Calamari has also been able to explore his interests in the intersection between medicine, policy and advocacy—gaining a deeper understanding of how the three are connected.
"It's been an amazing opportunity to connect with policymakers and administrators to see the ‘behind the scenes' of healthcare," he said. "We have a chance to talk with people in our communities, talk with politicians and help them understand how their decisions will affect Americans' healthcare."
Through his experiences at UNMC and a member of the Board of Regents, Calamari has developed a strong belief that leadership is about showing up and working together—critical attributes for a future medical professional.
"There can be a mentality that there are too many problems we can't fix," he said. "Leadership is about identifying the problems that are possible for us to fix together and going out and doing it."
Calamari is often asked by peers and fellow students about what it takes to be a leader sand how they can get involved. When asked, he encourages his peers and other students interested in leadership to simply step forward.
"It's not as daunting as it seems," he said. "It just takes an interest and desire to share information about what students feel is important."
Dr. Gold thanked Calamari for his leadership and the role he has played in being an advocate for strong healthcare and higher education:
"I appreciate you sharing your journey, your perspective on leadership and the important role that students play in shaping the future," Dr. Gold said. "You're a great example, and your commitment to advocacy and service is inspiring."
New episodes of "Heart to Heart" are released monthly on SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.