It was the beginning of my first year of medical school. The emergency physician whom I would be shadowing walked abruptly into his office, accompanied by the faint smell of coffee and antiseptic. He sat down across from me with his hands folded on his lap, somber and appearing somewhat tired. His thick, gray eyebrows were raised and furrowed, creating an expression of both interest and skepticism.

He didn't introduce himself or ask me any questions. Instead, he said, “Let me give you one piece of advice as you start medical school.”

My muscles tensed slightly as I straightened up ...