Paetyn Calder

As a member of Texas Infinites at the University of Texas, I actively contribute to a variety of volunteer initiatives aimed at giving back to the local community. Our group focuses on organizing charity events, volunteering at shelters, and supporting community outreach projects. We work together to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need across Austin. In addition to our volunteer work, Texas Infinites fosters school spirit and social engagement through meetups, spirit rallies, and university celebrations. These events help build connections among students, create a sense of inclusivity, and promote Longhorn pride. Through my involvement, I've developed valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, and event coordination while supporting both our campus culture and the broader community.

Women in Medicine is a organization at the University of Texas that connects aspiring female healthcare professionals with experienced doctors, physicians, and medical students. Through regular events, workshops, and speaker sessions, we engage with medical professionals to gain insights into the medical field, learn about different specialties, and share resources about medical school admissions, coursework, and career paths. In addition to professional development, we are deeply committed to giving back to our local community through volunteer work with local charities. We organize and participate in volunteer opportunities such as health fairs, educational outreach programs, and charity fundraisers to support underserved populations in Austin. This organization provides a supportive network for women pursuing careers in healthcare, fostering mentorship, collaboration, and a shared passion for medicine. Through my involvement, I've gained valuable mentorship, increased my knowledge of the medical field, and had the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the community.

• Volunteered as a clinic assistant to provide medications, vaccines, and microchips, and take the vitals of dogs and cats of all ages in the clinic. The care and treatment of animals is under veterinary guidance and supervision. This has taught me how to take correct vitals, understand the effects of vaccines, and the correct way of administering medicine.

• This facility provides care to dogs and cats by feeding, walking, cleaning, and campaigning for further adoption.
• I attended orientations and trainings on how to keep animals safe and myself safe through the process. The training included behavioral studies and behavioral habits of animals in the shelter to protect me from harm. The training also included signs of dehydration, anxiety, shock, and many more risks that come from the sheltered animals.

I had the opportunity to participate in the Women in STEM Externship at the University of Texas, a prestigious program designed to empower women with the skills needed to excel in STEM careers. Through this externship, I gained valuable insights into the latest industry trends and developed crucial professional skills, including problem-solving, data analysis, and effective job application strategies. The program also emphasized creativity and innovation, equipping me with the mindset and tools to approach challenges with confidence. By learning from industry experts and connecting with like-minded peers, I enhanced my understanding of STEM fields and strengthened my leadership abilities. This externship not only prepared me for the demands of a competitive workforce but also deepened my passion for pursuing a career in STEM. It has significantly boosted my career readiness and set me on a path to success in the field.

During my shadowing experience under Dr. Barbara Orlando, an Obstetric Anesthesia Attending, I gained invaluable insight into the dynamic and fast-paced environment of a hospital setting. Dr. Orlando provided me with a comprehensive view of the critical role anesthesia plays in obstetrics, particularly during labor and delivery, and how essential it is to ensure both maternal and fetal safety. Observing her interactions with patients, as well as her leadership in high-pressure situations, deepened my understanding of the challenges healthcare professionals face in this specialized field. Through this experience, I was able to see firsthand the complexity of patient care, from preoperative assessments to the careful management of anesthesia during procedures. Dr. Orlando’s mentorship also highlighted the importance of clear communication, quick decision-making, and teamwork in achieving positive patient outcomes. This shadowing opportunity has helped me gain a clearer perspective on the work environment in medicine, the challenges that come with it, and the skills necessary to thrive in a clinical setting.