Earlier this month, KNN students gathered at Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin for the second annual KNN Student Conference. Developed for and by KNN students, over 80 medical students from across 29 institutions were in attendance. The event began with a quote by author Simon Sinek that emphasized the conference theme, “Fostering Flourishing: Integrating Your Why into Your World.” The conference served as a space for learners to reflect on their purpose in medicine and identify what motivates them to aid in shaping a better future for medicine as aspiring physicians.

Throughout the three-day convening, student leaders spoke to the importance of concepts such as practical wisdom and authenticity in medicine. Sessions and activities also focused on the innovative ways student chapter sites are implementing initiatives and future directions for their work with the KNN Student Network.

The KNN Framework for Flourishing concepts of character, caring, practical wisdom and flourishing set the foundation for the agenda. For character, conference participants explored identity through personal and professional core values and shared stories of that concept in motion through meaningful experiences in medicine. Learners also discussed critical aspects of authentic care and patient connections while placing a strong emphasis on going the extra mile. Within the discussion, students explored the concept of caring through the lens of “love languages” and discussed the importance of developing skills to confidently provide care in challenging clinical situations.

For practical wisdom, a presentation introduced the idea of phronesis as a metavirtue that helps one calibrate and apply aspects of character and caring in practical action. Students recognized areas in their lives and medical training where practical wisdom can and should be applied, and it ultimately served as a reminder that cultivating practical wisdom will help strengthen individuals and bridge communities.

Dell Medical School student Aquiel Warner led a workshop titled, “Espressoyourself” where she brewed coffee and distributed mindful reminders and reflective prompts to learners in Dell’s KNN Student Flourishing area, a flexible multipurpose space for students.

One of the most difficult times in a medical student’s journey is when learners enter their clinical years. Through a session titled "Flourishing and the CLE," students explored the importance of adjustment, balance and being flexible. With an interactive and modified game of Twister, conference attendees participated with a purpose to represent navigating different scenarios in clinical settings.

Additionally, prioritizing balance was a key reminder for medical students. Learners had a chance to creatively express themselves through reflecting on what brings them joy. From positive childhood memories to hobbies and music, learners used the school’s designated flourishing space to draw and share what has helped them to prioritize and impact their personal and professional flourishing.

"Flourishing in medicine and everything it entails is absolutely essential so that we can be our best mental and physical selves. This then allows us to come to clinic and be the most mindful and present when engaging with patients."

- Trevor Milan Marshall, M1

Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine

Lastly, students also used the flourishing space to share how they can help each other succeed on their journey in medicine. Answers varied and further highlighted the importance of caring, collaboration and community. KNN program office team members Joëlle Worm, Tara Fikejs and Jessica Cunningham attended to support the student-led event. All observed the devoted effort that students invested into achieving a fruitful second conference.

We extend a huge congratulations to all KNN student leaders and the conference planning team on hosting another outstanding event! We commend the essential work being done in and outside of clinical learning environments and look forward to further supporting learners’ journey as changemakers toward flourishing in the field of medicine.