To the Editors:

Goodbyes and gratitude have been on my mind since leaving Bowdoin in the fall. I had the honor of caring for Bowdoin students for 14 years. I was privileged to hear many stories behind the exam room door. You shared concerns, fears, tears, successes and failures. You “emptied your bag” and trusted me to help sort through the contents. Celebrating your passions on campus, whether art, athletics, music, theater or volunteerism, made caring for you that much more rewarding. We learned from each other and grew together. I loved my job, and when you love your job, it makes all the difference.

As you continue your journey through Bowdoin and beyond, please remember that every human deserves medical care that feels like a partnership. Clinicians who listen carefully, share information and encourage you to choose the path that feels best for you, as well as health care providers who take the time to show curiosity without judgment, strive to understand why you came in, what your fears are and what your hopes are. I hope you feel empowered to seek out this kind of care whenever possible. You deserve it.

Goodbye, Bears.

Julie Gray

juliegraypac@gmail.com

Julie Gray was a physician assistant at Health Services for 14 years.