Carolinas

Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?

My fellow classmates have been my greatest source of inspiration. We come from diverse backgrounds and walks of life, yet we are united by a shared commitment to serving the underserved. Beyond excelling academically, many of my peers are deeply involved in research, volunteering, leadership roles, and unique personal pursuits. Balancing all these responsibilities is no small feat, and every day, I am reminded of how truly inspiring they are. 

What stands out the most is the unwavering support we have for one another, especially during difficult times. When a classmate faces hardship, our community comes together—whether through organizing donations, sending messages of encouragement, or simply being there for one another. This sense of camaraderie and compassion is a defining aspect of VCOM, and I am incredibly grateful to be part of such a caring and driven group of future physicians.

How has the VCOM mission inspired you as a medical student?

As a child of immigrants, VCOM’s mission deeply resonates with me. I have personally witnessed the healthcare disparities faced by underserved communities, particularly within the Hispanic community. VCOM’s commitment to serving these populations is not just a statement—it is actively reflected in the school’s initiatives. 

VCOM encourages students to learn from different cultures and backgrounds, fostering a more inclusive and understanding medical community. Additionally, VCOM ensures that we uphold its mission by engaging us in meaningful community involvement. Whether through medical outreach or educational initiatives like the Mini Medical School for local middle and high school students, we are given opportunities to both educate and learn from the communities we serve. These experiences have reinforced my passion for addressing healthcare disparities and have shaped me into a more compassionate and culturally competent future physician.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

My mother instilled in me the belief that “anything is possible,” especially with the opportunities available in the United States. Her unwavering hard work and dedication to ensuring my brother and I could live the American dream have always been evident. Although she hoped at least one of us would become an engineer, we both found our calling in healthcare. 

Growing up, I often served as my family’s interpreter at medical appointments, a role I continue to play today. This experience sparked my curiosity about the "whys" of medicine and deepened my awareness of the healthcare disparities faced by underserved communities. While pursuing medicine once felt like an impossible task, my mother has always been there to remind me how far we’ve come—and how much more we can and will achieve.

Why did you choose VCOM?

My alma mater, Wake Forest University, provided me with an incredible education, but it also had a highly competitive environment where shared resources among classmates were limited. During my interview at VCOM, the importance of collaboration was emphasized, and when I arrived, I immediately noticed a stark contrast. On my very first day, multiple speakers, including our Dean, reinforced the idea that our goal was to ensure that we all reach the finish line together. This was not just a sentiment—it was a promise that has been upheld throughout my time here. 

At VCOM, my classmates actively share resources and support one another, creating an environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. This culture of teamwork has allowed me to thrive, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in medicine. It has also shown me that by lifting each other up, we can all become the best physicians for our future patients.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?

At the Carolinas campus, we get the best of both worlds—a close-knit, small-town feel that allows us to truly connect with the community we serve while still being within easy reach of larger cities like Charlotte and Greenville. Many of my friends and I enjoy taking short trips to these cities, whether to study at coffee shops or explore new places. This balance between a supportive local community and access to vibrant city life makes living here a truly enriching experience.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Although free time is limited in medical school, I make it a priority to unwind through activities like running, painting, and stargazing. These hobbies not only bring me joy but also serve as a much-needed outlet for stress. I also love trying new experiences and foods, which my friends and I make a point to do at least once a month. Exploring different cuisines and activities keeps life exciting and provides a great way to take a break from studying.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?

I’m really interested in internal medicine and hope to specialize in medical oncology. Unfortunately, cancer has impacted my family in a deeply personal way, and losing loved ones to it opened my eyes to the challenges that patients and their families face. It also made me realize how important representation is in oncology—and how much it’s still lacking. I want to be there for patients during one of the hardest times in their lives, not just as a doctor but as someone who understands their struggles and makes them feel seen, heard, and supported.

This sense of camaraderie and compassion is a defining aspect of VCOM, and I am incredibly grateful to be part of such a caring and driven group of future physicians.

Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?

I have been inspired by the spirit of VCOM, which lies in grit, integrity, and the belief that collaboration, not competition, builds a legacy of excellence where every individual’s success contributes to the collective advancement of our community and the future of Osteopathic medicine. I have the pleasure of learning alongside passionate and driven classmates who share in mutual encouragement and shared growth, which VCOM has fostered. We are supported by Dean Cannon and the rest of the dedicated professionals whose unwavering dedication to our success provides us with the guidance, resources, and inspiration needed to thrive. Together, we are not just preparing to be physicians but also striving to embody the values of compassion, resilience, and service that define the VCOM community.

How has the VCOM mission inspired you as a medical student?

The VCOM mission serves as a constant reminder of my “why” behind the long days and hard work of medical training, inspiring me to persevere through challenges, stay focused on my goals, and remain committed to the profound responsibility of being a physician. It is a guiding principle that connects my personal aspirations to a much larger and broader purpose as a future physician. At VCOM, this mission is brought to life every day as students actively engage in community outreach, volunteer efforts, and mission trips, both locally and internationally. These opportunities not only reinforce our commitment to serving others but also help us grow as compassionate, culturally competent physicians who understand the value of health equity and access to care. Whether it’s organizing health fairs, providing free clinics to underserved populations, or traveling abroad to deliver care to those in need, we are constantly reminded of the impact we can have on the lives of individuals and communities.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

My inspiration to study medicine comes from my Uncle Angelo, an emergency physician. When I was 16, my uncle invited me to join his annual medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where he and a dedicated team of physicians, including his former medical school colleagues, provided care to over 1,200 patients in just nine days. I watched them provide a wide range of care, from distributing vitamins to performing C-sections, for people with no access to doctors between their remote communities and the capital city. Witnessing my uncle’s compassion and the patients’ gratitude profoundly impacted me. That experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine and to follow his example of using medicine to heal and serve others.

Why did you choose VCOM?

Throughout the application process, VCOM stood out to me for its strong commitment to Osteopathic Medicine, extensive medical outreach opportunities, and impressive first-time board pass and residency match rates. I was particularly drawn to how early VCOM integrates hands-on learning through simulations, the anatomy cadaver lab, and OMM labs, which provide a comprehensive and practical foundation for medical education. After my interview day, I left with a deep sense that VCOM was the right fit for me. During my interview, I asked Dean Cannon to describe VCOM in one word, and he responded, “VCOM is a family.” Having spent time here, I can confidently say this sentiment holds true. The faculty, staff, and fellow students are approachable, compassionate, and genuinely dedicated to supporting students’ success academically and professionally.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?

Spartanburg is a great place to live, and it is remarkable at the pace it is growing. I grew up just outside New York City, so when choosing a place for medical school, I wanted a location where I could focus on my studies but still have access to essentials like a gym, grocery stores, and career opportunities for my wife. Spartanburg has been a great fit, offering the small-town feel, proximity to Greenville, and plenty of outdoor spaces. The farmer's markets and downtown restaurants make it a convenient and enjoyable place to live.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I like to stay active, skiing whenever I get the chance, as it’s a great way to unwind and get outdoors. At home, I spend a lot of time with my 8-month-old Goldendoodle, Koda, who always brings a lot of excitement to my day. My wife and I enjoy exploring downtown restaurants in Spartanburg and Greenville for dinner. Staying fit is also important to me, so I make time for workouts and the occasional yoga class to decompress. When the weather’s nice, I take Koda out to local trails for a hike or walk. I also enjoy hanging out with my classmates, whether it’s grabbing a meal, working out together, or just relaxing after a busy week.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?

Currently, I am particularly drawn to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). My inspiration for this interest in this specialty stems from a personal experience during my undergraduate years. My older brother, Liam, was paralyzed by a spinal cord injury sustained while working as a firefighter. Outside of my classes, I spent my time with him at inpatient rehabilitation facilities and later at various outpatient facilities, where I volunteered, interned, and eventually worked. Catastrophic injuries like the one my brother experienced benefit immensely from a comprehensive mind, body, and spirit approach—principles deeply rooted in Osteopathic Medicine. I am eager to follow this path and provide care that supports patients in overcoming challenges and reclaiming their health.

Whether it’s organizing health fairs, providing free clinics to underserved populations, or traveling abroad to deliver care to those in need, we are constantly reminded of the impact we can have on the lives of individuals and communities.

Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?

Moving out of state to tackle something as challenging as medical school was daunting. From the very first semester, I was lucky enough to gain two brothers to share my journey at VCOM. Brenden Hatchell and Adam Tolaymat continue to inspire me day after day to be the best version of myself. This path can feel endless and suffocating at times, but when you can surround yourself with such dedicated, passionate, and lighthearted individuals, you feel empowered to keep pushing. When we have a stressful week, we crack jokes to make each other laugh. When we had anatomy and OMM practical exams, we would practice on each other and turn it into something enjoyable.  When there was a task or project that seemed overwhelming for one, we conquered it together. We challenge one another to break from our comfort zones and grow to our full potential.

How has the VCOM mission inspired you as a medical student?

VCOM’s mission has genuinely inspired me as a medical student by shaping how I view my future role as a physician. Being a doctor isn’t just about treating illnesses. It’s about becoming a compassionate advocate for patients, especially those in rural and underserved areas who often have barriers impacting medical literacy and access to quality healthcare. This has encouraged me to serve where I’m needed most and be a positive force in communities that are too often overlooked. It reminds me that the heart of medicine is not just in knowledge and skills but in empathy, connection, and a genuine commitment to improving lives. VCOM has given me a clear vision of the kind of doctor I want to become—one who leads with compassion, works tirelessly for others, and makes a lasting difference.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

Before starting medical school, I spent five years working as a Patient Care Technician in medical, surgical, and cardiovascular critical care units. During that time, I had the privilege of working alongside incredible Intensivists who influenced me in ways that are hard to put into words. Two of the people who made the greatest impact on me are Dr. Christopher Begley, DO, and Dr. Iker Unzalu, MD. They showed me what it truly means to be a physician—the ability to navigate complex situations with skill, communicate with compassion, and remain a steady source of guidance during life’s most challenging moments. It takes a rare kind of person to inspire hope when everything seems lost and to provide comfort and dignity in end-of-life care. Watching them in action helped shape my understanding of the physician I hope to become.

Why did you choose VCOM?

From the very first time I connected with VCOM, it was clear how much they value each student and faculty member as individuals. It’s a school built on the idea of supporting each other and creating a balance between academics and genuine connections. I wanted to be part of a place that wouldn’t see me as just another number but would treat my peers and me like real people. VCOM really feels like one big family.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?

This is an easy one: how close we are to the mountains! Coming from South Florida, all I had experienced growing up was flat. Being able to visit gorgeous state parks and awesome hiking trails on a daily whim was awesome. As a cherry on top, the community is extremely welcoming and friendly.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I spend most of my time hanging out with my wife and family. We’ve got three cats and a dog who are basically real life Looney Tunes, they always keeping things interesting! I’m a big fan of fantasy novels, and my favorite authors are Patrick Rothfuss and Brandon Sanderson. I’m also into gaming and love playing multiplayer games like Apex Legends and Old School RuneScape. Recently, I’ve started getting into golf with my classmates, and it’s been a fun way to relax and have a few laughs.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?

With years of experience as a patient care tech working alongside incredible intensivists, I’ve developed a deep respect for the field of critical care. My goal is to one day become a critical care physician. I dream of being that final line of defense, the person who offers reassurance during life’s most frightening moments, letting patients and their families know they are not alone and that I am there to help. For those who cannot be saved, I will give everything I have, standing by them until they decide to let go. In those moments, I will do my best to help them find peace.

VCOM has given me a clear vision of the kind of doctor I want to become—one who leads with compassion, works tirelessly for others, and makes a lasting difference.