Prepared to Make a Difference: Alexandra Bakovic's Commitment to Sports Medicine

1. Can you tell us a little bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in sports medicine?
   I was born and raised in Bolivia, where I was actively involved in sports, particularly dance and gymnastics. Witnessing athletes struggle to find proper care for injuries sparked my interest in sports medicine. After moving to the U.S., I became curious about how athletes here manage to return to sports, even while playing through pain. This led me to explore athletic training and sports medicine.

2. You’ve trained and worked in a wide range of settings. What’s one experience that shaped the way you think about emergency preparedness?
   As athletic trainers, we are the first responders during sports events. My education and experience with college sports taught me to always prepare for worst-case scenarios. At the start of each season, we practice emergency response scenarios and educate coaches and staff on how to react. This preparation ensures that we can respond effectively, whether the situation is life-threatening or not.

3. What’s one common misconception people have about responding to emergencies in everyday life?
   Many believe they must "rush and panic" or think, "This won't happen to me." I emphasize the importance of being prepared: "Prepare for the worst, hope for the best." In emergencies, staying calm and rational is crucial. Panic hinders your ability to help effectively. 

4. What do you hope attendees take away from the upcoming Before the Ambulance Arrives workshop? Why do you believe it’s important for every woman to feel equipped to respond to basic medical emergencies?
   I hope attendees leave feeling more confident and less anxious about emergencies. Preparing for worst-case scenarios can lead to better recovery outcomes. It's essential for everyone, regardless of gender, to be equipped to handle basic medical emergencies, as this knowledge benefits the entire household.

5. Tell us more about your work with The Legacy Dialogues and the vision for the organization.
   The Legacy Dialogues allows me to extend my expertise beyond sports.

   My passion lies in being a change-maker and supporting others. The organization promotes philanthropy as a lifestyle, helping individuals and organizations clarify their purpose and address social, economic, and humanitarian challenges through impactful programs.