Leena Mehendale

What’ve you enjoyed most about your area of study? Was there a particular discovery, new skill or way of thinking, or insight that you found especially valuable? Please share an example from your favorite class or experience.

Studying Spanish at MIT has been a wonderful experience! I’ve absolutely loved getting the opportunity to learn about not only the language itself but also the culture that accompanies it. My favorite experience came from MISTI in Madrid, where I conducted clinical research on memory and aging in older adults. The opportunity to talk to and connect with these patients was life-changing, and I’ll always treasure this experience.

How does the knowledge from this field, or your interest in it, combine with your other major or minor studies at MIT?

As a pre-medical student, my connection to the Spanish language and culture has proven invaluable so many times! In my part-time work at Massachusetts Eye and Ear in the pediatric surgical unit, I have been able to connect with many patients and families and help them feel more comfortable just by the simple act of speaking in their native language. As I continue towards a career as a physician, I hope to keep breaking down barriers with the gift of Spanish that MIT has given me!

An MIT education includes study in the scientific, technical, social science, arts, and humanities fields. How do you think that wide range of knowledge and perspectives will be valuable to you – for your career success and for your enjoyment of life?

My range of experiences across the sciences as well as the humanities has opened my eyes to the interdisciplinary nature of life as a whole! Through my MISTI experiences living and working in Spanish-speaking countries, I have come to understand the importance of the human connection that underlies how science is implemented across the world. In my future career as well as in life, I hope to implement my knowledge of Spanish and love for the humanities to foster connection with others and continue bringing joy into the world!

What are your plans for the future?

This fall, I’m heading to medical school, where I hope to use my Spanish to widen access to healthcare across all communities!