Leadership-in-Action Reflection 1

Journal entry for week 1 - Pro-Bono Healthcare in a Socialized System: La Carpio, Costa Rica

Jun 09, 2026

Student, Georgetown University

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I successfully reviewed Spanish vocabulary and studied pertinent cultural, political, and societal events regarding Costa Rica and Central America. I unfortunately was not able to practice Spanish with my family friend due to an emergency they faced. I could have been more thorough with grammar reviews, but overall I am confident in my capacities. My efforts in reviewing Spanish, especially medical Spanish, could be described as “determined” given I balanced the ten days I had at home with such priorities. I could have shrugged off the review, but I knew that failing to effectively revive my Spanish-speaking ability would hinder my future work. This endeavor did not test my character or leadership capacities, but prepared me for future endeavors. Going forward, I will carry the same determination in using spare time to improve leadership capacity.

Alfonso Enrique Chan

Student, Georgetown University

I am an undergraduate student at Georgetown University (CAS '27) studying Physics and Science, Technology, & International Affairs. I was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas and am pursuing a career in medicine. Outside academics, I am a volunteer EMT, I am involved in the Georgetown Filipino community, and I spend my free time finding new ways to physically challenge myself (marathons, fencing, wilderness exploration, etc.).

As a Laidlaw Program Scholar, I aim to rewrite the narrative surrounding leadership as a practice defined by community impact. Especially in the field I am pursuing, there exists a strong need for advocates who lead alongside those they serve. Through the personal development inherent to the Laidlaw Program, I aim to join a unique cohort of young professionals dedicated toward social change.

My Laidlaw research project involves the identification of metabolomic biomarkers indicative of acute radiation exposure. I will utilize mass spectrometry data collected from non-human primate urine, saliva, and serum to improve upon existing radiation exposure models. I anticipate facing the coming research challenges and future opportunities available through the Laidlaw Scholars Network.