Our Mission
This is the Medical Humanities at UTA
The Medical Humanities is the unique crossover of the fine arts and medical sciences. It is a field that explores the ethical, historical, literary, philosophical, and spiritual dimensions of medicine or health. We heavily emphasize topics such as hope, grief, the art of listening, human connection, and the unique human experience in our studies, and believe that difficult topics such as these go hand in hand with medical education. It is no longer enough to view a patient as a list of symptoms: they, just as we are, are deeply complex human beings who expect and deserve empathetic and well-rounded care. Our purpose for creating this journal is to highlight the diverse and multifaceted talents of our students, staff, and alumni with the hope that the future of healthcare is empathetic, passionate, and ethical as a result of the incredible body of people who will lead it.
Stimulus n.
something that incites change, action, or response.
Founding Editorial Board
Meet the faces behind the first edition of Stimulus, published in May of 2021.
As science students, we are taught to analyze, to improve, to simplify, and to make progress; and the health sciences are no exception. So rarely do we find the time to slow down and observe the things around us with a non-critical eye.
We are taught to run like well-oiled machines- suddenly, humanity is lost in the need for results. In the era of online learning, we can be made to feel like mere extensions of our computers. I personally have found solace in writing music throughout the course of my life. Expression, even if it is only strumming a guitar, can make us feel human again.
It has been an honor and a privilege to be able to work with this incredible team and to see the diverse talent across the many disciplines at UTA. I hope this journal will stimulate you to take the time to observe and enjoy the expressions of our talented UTA students and faculty.
Karyssa Nelson
Stimulus Founding Co-Editor, 2021
UTA Psychology, Biology, and Medical Humanities Alum
Medical humanities teaches that the root of the problem may not always lie in what can be seen by the naked eye but may lie deeper within. The only way to “see” this is to be attentive and allow others to speak. By stepping in the shoes of another, we can learn and adapt to ways that can improve our own lives as well as the lives of those around us.
I’m constantly reminding myself to enjoy the simple and little things in life. Music, arts & crafts, and poetry are the means I use to express myself.
It has been a privilege and a great experience working on this journal with such a creative, and diverse team, a diversity that reflects the goal this journal.
Thao Thu Nguyen
Stimulus Founding Co-Editor, 2021
UTA Biomedical Engineering, Disability Studies, and Medical Humanities Alum
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My name is Darin Hardin and I'm a Communication Technology major finishing up my junior year here at UTA. I work at the Lockheed Martin Career & Development Center as a graphic design intern; you've probably seen my flyers around campus! When I'm not working or doing homework until my legs go numb, I really enjoy weightlifting and running. I'm so fired up to be a part of the Stimulus team; Karyssa and Thu have been such a pleasure to work with. It's been a great opportunity to sharpen my design skills and learn more about the medical humanities field.
Darin Hardin
Stimulus Head of Design, 2021
UTA Communication Technology Student
It is truly wonderful to experience the development of Stimulus: A Medical Humanities Journal. This UTA community-wide and student-run publication offers an extraordinary opportunity to publish original arts and creative content related to the human experience.
Your startup efforts are greatly appreciated! I am confident that Medical Humanities learning at UTA will improve interpersonal relationships and patient care in an age of increasing technology.
Well done!!
Dr. Steven Gellman MD, MFA, FAAFP
Stimulus Faculty Advisor
Founder of the Medical Humanities Program at UTA
The field of Medical Humanities connects people in such diverse ways. Perhaps that’s what made me so excited at the thought of a Medical Humanities Journal. It’s a physical representation of our communities’ efforts to share and connect.
For my last year at UTA, I know one of my greatest memories will be seeing this journal come to life from a single idea. I’m so thankful to have been here from the beginning and truly appreciate the fine details put together by this remarkable team. I cannot wait to see future editions of this journal and how this embodiment of human expression grows.