Sophia Stocks, D.P.M., AZCPM Class of 2017
Arizona Foot & Wound Specialists
www.azfootandwound.com
“ Wake up, look in the mirror and tell yourself everyday: 'I am beautiful. I am strong. I am able.' ”
What are you doing now/ where do you practice?
I own a private podiatry medical practice in central Phoenix, right by the Arizona Biltmore. After graduating residency, I took over a practice three months out. I had the opportunity to hire my own medical dream team. Some members have been with me since the inception of the practice, and many staff members have moved onto bigger and better dreams by starting dental, podiatry, PA, NP and nursing schools after their experiences at my office. From the treasure chest filled with toys available for pediatric patients, to the fancy rose gold on black pens and stress balls in the shape of tiny feet, we love pampering our patients at this practice with goodies to remember us. We have been blessed to earn the trust of local PCPs, Urgent Cares, and friends and families of past patients who continue to recommend our practice and send their loved ones to us.
What is something you are most proud of?
Something that I am most proud of is my staff. They are all phenomenal and integral to the practice. From answering phone calls to engaging in treating patients with me, they are professional and exude the utmost compassion for all patients. They are the face of the company, and I cannot be more proud of the staff that keeps my office running.
Who are your female role models?
My # 1 female role model is my mom, Suzan Lee. She carried and nurtured me in her womb for 9 months and then fed me, clothed me, shaped my faith, and lived a selfless life as a mother so that I could grow up and have the opportunity to obtain a doctorate level education. Now I have the chance to pass on this love and compassionate care to my staff and my patients. Another female role model for me is Mother Teresa of Calcutta. In the great and little things that she did for others, she visualized providing this care to Jesus. When I hold the feet of my patients in my hands-it reminds me of when Mother Teresa considered her works as holding Christ in her hands when treating their sicknesses and ailments.
Did you have a female mentor while you were at MWU?
My female mentor during my time at MWU while I was still a student rotating through hospitals would have to be Dr. Jaclyn Marino. She was an attending podiatry physician at the Phoenix VA hospital during my time as a med student and went on to be my interim residency director. She was gentle when we had our challenging moments where we questioned our career choices as a podiatrist, but also was there to push us to be the best that we could be. She wanted students and residents alike to be challenged, to think on our toes, and to be second to none when presenting a patient. "Have you reviewed the x-rays? Did you check previous labs? What’s on the list of differential diagnoses? What’s your treatment plan? “ Dr. Marino would speak quickly, yet with a firm and caring voice. Whether you were a student or a resident- she would expect the highest level of academic knowledge and professionalism for all patient care. Thanks, Mom and Dr. Marino. You ladies are the female role models for me on how to be a mother and a boss at the same time.
What advice do you have for women who want to go into healthcare careers?
My advice for women who want to go into healthcare careers is to believe in yourself. Wake up, look in the mirror and tell yourself everyday: “I am beautiful. I am strong. I am able.” Chanting these words daily helps me to leave the world a better place today than I found it yesterday through every interaction and every move that I make knowing it will have a ripple effect. First believe, then do. For me, I sprinkle all of that with a touch of faith and prayer and nothing can stand in my way.
