Gina Robinson, MD, FAAP (P’98) is a Clevelander who has been practicing in the area since 1998. Her interests include reading, crafting, music, art, travel, and ballroom dancing. She is married to a techie named Sean, and mother to a brilliant human named Kendal.
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Q. Why is a career in academic medicine important to you? What message do you have for those considering academic medicine?
A. A career in academic medicine is important to me because I feel that I can make a positive impact of physicians in training. I also think that it is important to increase the diversity of the voices that are heard in academic medicine. I would advise those who are unsure how they can pursue a career in academic medicine to ask questions and find mentors that can guide them along the way.
Q. What do you to take care of yourself? How do you prioritize your needs both personally and professionally?
A. I spend time with my family and friends, read, and travel as much as possible. I try to do small things every day to prioritize myself. For example, I do not do any work while I am eating. Sometimes this means that I have a 5- or 10-minute lunch, but during that time I give myself permission to relax and disconnect. I will sometimes do a quick 5-minute meditation during the day when I am feeling overwhelmed. It is brief but does me a world of good.
Q. What has been one of your challenges and how have you overcome it?
A. One of my biggest challenges has been dealing with impostor syndrome. I would love to say that I have overcome it completely, but I continue to work at it daily by pushing myself out of my comfort zones, contributing my ideas confidently, and not being afraid to make mistakes.
Q. What recommendations do you have for the next generation of physicians similar to you?
A. I would tell them what I have always told my daughter. Live by the Four Agreements: Don’t make assumptions, don’t take things personally, always do your best, and be impeccable with your word. I will add to that, don’t be afraid to take up space.
Q. What lessons would you share with your younger self?
A. I would reassure my younger self that she is smart, capable, and deserving of her achievements. I would tell her to be present and mindful of the current moment, and try to find joy every day. Also, keep working out consistently and lay off the chocolate!
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