Barriers to minority participation in the orthopaedic profession. Personal perspectives.

A brief summary of one individual's pathway and the challenges encountered along the road to becoming an orthopaedic surgeon are outlined. Beginning with the decision to pursue a career in medicine, and chronicling the subsequent decisions made along the way, key elements that facilitated this individual's success are reviewed. Some of the difficulties encountered from the perspective of a minority candidate also are discussed and what perhaps may be deemed an indirect pathway to an orthopaedic career. The importance of institutional support, mentorship, and recruitment are essential to facilitate and secure the success of minority candidates.