- Truman Grad Year and Major: 1997 Biology (Philosophy Minor)
- Med School: Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences
- Med School Grad Year: 2001
- Specialty: Pediatrics
- Hometown: St. Louis
- Current Job: Pediatrician in St Louis, Missouri
Why medicine? How did you decide that you wanted to be a doctor?
I was always interested in pediatrics; loved science and children. I decided the best combination would be medicine.
How did you prepare for med school? (extracurricular activities, shadowing, research, MCAT) Was there any part of your application that you felt was lacking and what would you have done differently to improve it?
I was active in Medical Explorer Club in high school, and I was a volunteer for the St. Louis County Health Department. I was also involved in the Pre-Physician Club at Truman (equivalent of AMSA).
How well did Truman prepare you for med school as compared to your classmates? In other words, what advantages or disadvantages does Truman offer to a pre-med student?
I felt that Truman prepared me very well for medical school, giving me a solid background in the basic sciences. The liberal arts aspect at Truman was also useful in helping me become a more rounded individual.
What classes did you find most helpful to you? What material did you apply after leaving Truman?
There were several classes that were helpful on my journey through medical school, including Biochemistry, Biomedical Ethics, Histology and Microbiology.
How many schools did you apply to? Where?
Most of the schools I applied to were in the Midwest, including Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, MU School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, Washington University, and Southern Illinois University. Ultimately I chose Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB). I was drawn to Osteopathy for its holistic approach and felt it was a better fit for my view of how medicine should be practiced.
How hectic is life for a medical student? For a doctor? How much time does your profession allow for family/friend recreation time?
The first couple of years are tough, but the workload at Truman prepared me for it. I went into medical school with a good work ethic and strong study skills that I gained at Truman. Residency is also hectic, but more free time is available when you enter a practice. I worked four days a week, but was on call most of the time. Prospective medical students/physicians must realize that a lot of time is involved in the profession, but at the same time, there is room for recreation.
What do you enjoy most about being a doctor?
The most important aspect for me has been developing relationships with my patients and witnessing the growth and development of the children I treat.
If you could do it all over again—from undergrad to where you are today—what would you do differently? Any regrets?
No regrets—I was fortunate enough to choose a path that I was able to enjoy along the way.