Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?    

There have been many people who have inspired me at VCOM but there is one that especially came to mind. VCOM is filled with amazing faculty but I want to shine a light on this specific person. The first is Dr. Bill Pearson. Many students including myself found him to be a saving grace during our time taking Anatomy, which is one of the hardest courses in medical school. He was constantly finding new ways to improve our curriculum and help us better understand the material to advance us as future physicians. One of the improvements he came up with is something called speed reviews. This incorporated team-based learning where students in our class would teach each other gross anatomy structures. This gave us a secure and organized space to ask questions and learn. His overall dedication to our learning went above and beyond my expectations. He not only cared for us on an educational level but also on a humanistic level. He took the time to truly learn every student's name in the class and would always try to engage in conversations about our life outside of medical school. Dr. Pearson took the time to get to know every student on a personal level. Little things like this never go unnoticed. Dr. Pearson’s presence at VCOM will have an everlasting impact on me and my collogues.

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

As a medical student, VCOM 's mission has given me new motivation to value, support, and assist my community. It truly inspired me to work even harder to become a physician because of their emphasis on community-focused doctors to aid rural communities. I grew up in a small town in Tennessee, so I understood how valuable it is to have community, whether it be with fellow students, locally, or even religiously. Because of what VCOM has taught me about the value of community development and the need to work to improve everyone's quality of life, helping my community has grown to be one of my top priorities as a physician. Growing up in a small rural area in Tennessee helped me really appreciate VCOM’s mission in the way that I could see myself in the community I was studying to give back to once I am a physician. It helps create interpersonal connections in places that might feel far from most.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?    

My inspiration for medicine began early in life when I was exposed to healthcare through my grandmother who was on bed rest for the last three years of her life. Through that difficult time, I was introduced to caring for someone who was essentially helpless. This not only taught me different clinical procedures such as cleaning a feeding tube but it also showed me how rewarding it could feel to help a loved one in need. This is where my journey of choosing to study medicine began. Later on in life, another person who I hold close to my heart was diagnosed with lung cancer. This in itself was a life-changing experience. It was a difficult time in my life, but the one thing that brought so much ease to my family was our neighbor who was also a physician. He never hesitated to answer any questions or confusion that arose once we received new lab results or anything pertaining to my father's health. He was kind, patient, and empathetic. As I progressed through my schooling, I found myself reflecting on the past and wanted to be that type of ease for someone else’s family. Just seeing how much of an impact his actions had on me and my family, despite him having absolutely no reason to do so was a major factor in inspiring me to study medicine. I aspire to be a physician just like him one day.

Why did you choose VCOM?    

I chose to go to VCOM because of how their mission statement resonated with me. VCOM was one of the few schools where I felt as if my goals and ambitions as a future physician that I strived for were reflected in this institution. The emphasis on community involvement and their endeavors to give back to those around us became even more passionate during my time here. VCOM’s focus on research was something that also caught my attention when I was choosing which school to go to. Research and innovation I believe is a major force in healthcare and one that will shape our futures as physicians, and I believe VCOM provides excellent resources that allow us to explore those efforts .

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

The thing I enjoy most about living in Auburn is that the community is so connected. I was ecstatic that I was placed in a college town like Auburn. It reminds me so much of back home since I also grew up in a college town. I love how everyone’s spirit is lifted when football season rolls around. Some other benefits to auburn are that traffic is usually nonexistent and the people around you make you feel so welcome. One of the reasons I chose to attend VCOM was how inviting they were when I first interviewed here.  Being able to live so close to campus helps us all feel even closer as a community because we are able to be near each other in any time of need. Living so close to campus really helped me find wonderful groups of friends and neighbors and which helped us all feel at home here, no matter where we’re from. I am forever grateful for the people I have met due to my placement here in Auburn.

What do you like to do in your free time?    

During my free time, there are a few things I like to indulge in. One is cooking. I love to be adventurous in the kitchen. I enjoy finding a new recipe online and wanting to remake it. It has its own artistic expression in having the ability to create meals you’ve never tried and then put your own twist on them. Other activities I enjoy include spending time with friends and family along with traveling! I am a big fan of exploring new areas in the world. Some of the countries I have visited thus far include Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, Jamaica, and Mexico. The list of places I hope to see in the future is never-ending. Experiencing different cultures, languages, and cuisine help me become acquainted with different backgrounds which are so interesting.

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

I came into medical school not really sure what path would pique my interest. I was attracted to exploring specialties such as OB/GYN, Family Medicine, Internal medicine, and Emergency medicine. I’ve never had any hands-on experience with them which is why I came into medical school with an open mind. Every block we cover a new organ system, and I am constantly amazed by the differences in each. I am really looking forward to block six, where we actually get to have some early clinical experiences incorporated into our schedule. I have great anticipation for the year to come. Once I have officially had a chance to experience and get familiar with every rotation during my third year I will hopefully make a decision on what specialty I choose to pursue. I am excited to see what the future holds!

Because of what VCOM has taught me about the value of community development and the need to work to improve everyone's quality of life, helping my community has grown to be one of my top priorities as a physician. Growing up in a small rural area in Tennessee helped me really appreciate VCOM’s mission in the way that I could see myself in the community I was studying to give back to once I am a physician. It helps create interpersonal connections in places that might feel far from most.

Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?

While at VCOM, I have experienced many sources of inspiration that have continued to uplift and drive me while on this journey. A faculty member I would like to highlight that has been instrumental in inspiring me to push through the difficulties of medical school is Dr. Stephen, our pathology professor. Dr. Stephen has been phenomenal in my development as a medical student. From day one, he has gone above and beyond in not only challenging us but gifting us with strong advice and words of encouragement. He takes the time to get to know us, students. This is evident in his lectures as he calls on individuals by name encouraging an interactive environment. Furthermore, the most inspiring aspect is that Dr. Stephen, like myself, is a member of an underrepresented population in healthcare. To see him continue to excel in his positions drives me to endure the challenges of medical school because I know that I can also make an impact in any environment I enter. I desire to put myself in a position where I can positively pour into the lives of others. I want to be a resource where individuals look to me for assistance and can be certain that I will be there to attend to any need that is present.

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

The mission of VCOM emphasizes developing physicians to meet the needs of rural and medically underserved populations. This has inspired me personally because I identify with a number of individuals from these populations.  With the majority of my family originating from rural Selma, Alabama, I have personally seen what rural and medically underserved populations look like. I know the experiences that a lot of these individuals undergo in relation to health, and I desire to equip myself with the ability to help improve the conditions in those populations. VCOM’s mission is such an inspiration because the individuals they are preparing us to serve are no different than my aunt or grandmother, and I plan to treat them as such.  VCOM’s mission also prioritizes community which gives me such joy as I enjoy diving into the surrounding area and doing what I can to serve. I look for any opportunity in which I am able to offer my time and services to help improve another individual’s day.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?    

Being raised by an occupational therapist and a nurse practitioner, I was exposed to medicine at a very young age. I watched as my mother worked long 12-hour shifts, taking care of patient after patient with no complaints. Additionally, my father would take my sister and me alongside him during his home health visits as he worked to improve the motions and functions of his patients. Both of them conveyed a level of care that was exceptional and above the standard. I believe I possess that same level of care, and my goal is to create positive moments by healing those that will one day be entrusted into my care. I have set high standards for myself and intend to use my education to help improve the quality of life for others. I have a passion for helping others and that is why I want to practice medicine. I thrive in team settings as I have been a member of a team my entire life. I look forward to using my collaborative and leadership skills to bring good physical health to those most vulnerable.

Why did you choose VCOM?   

I chose VCOM because I believe in the mission of becoming a community-focused physician who meets the needs of those who are medically underserved. I believe VCOM supports its mission by depicting how many students graduate and enter areas where access to medical care is limited. I was drawn to VCOM because their program is honest about recruiting individuals who will address health disparities in rural locations and minority populations. As a member of a minority group, I feel it is my responsibility to advocate for and serve those who have challenges gaining the care they need. I plan to further VCOM’s mission and goals by becoming a culturally competent physician who seeks to serve those who are underserved.

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

As a VCOM-Auburn student, we are fortunate enough to have access to a lot of the opportunities that Auburn University students have. I enjoy being able to use the Auburn University library as a change of scenery to study. My study group utilizes this beautiful facility every night before an exam to meet and discuss topics for the upcoming exam. I also enjoy being able to access the student recreation center where I am able to work out and maintain my physical health. My classmates and I will occasionally gather at the recreation center and play basketball together which is a great opportunity to build relationships and get a much-needed study break. The most enjoyable part of attending medical school at a major university is seeing your younger self in the undergraduate students and knowing that you were once in their shoes. The hard work and discipline that we maintained led us to where we are currently, and that is the motivation that we can carry throughout each day.

What do you like to do in your free time?   

I enjoy playing video games in my free time. My classmates know that I am playing my PlayStation with any little inch of free time we might have. Video games were not always a hobby of mine however when the pandemic was in full force it was an activity that I could utilize to pass time. Gaming has also been an avenue for me to stay in contact with numerous hometown friends and college buddies. We can communicate through our headsets and it gives us a sense of fellowship and comradery. Also, as a former student-athlete, I do enjoy participating in sports-related activities during my free time. My classmates and I try to make time to play basketball at the end of each week as a way to decompress and fellowship as well.

I was drawn to VCOM because their program is honest about recruiting individuals who will address health disparities in rural locations and minority populations. As a member of a minority group, I feel it is my responsibility to advocate for and serve those who have challenges gaining the care they need. I plan to further VCOM’s mission and goals by becoming a culturally competent physician who seeks to serve those who are underserved.

Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?

The camaraderie between the entire class is what inspired me the most. When I first heard that VCOM was a family, I had expectations that were quickly fulfilled. Each of my classmates was supportive, uplifting, and genuinely wanted everyone to succeed. Without this sense of unity, continuing this journey would have become more difficult and arduous and I am truly glad to be a part of this community.

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

The phrase “community-minded physicians” stuck with me the most when I first read the VCOM mission. I was lucky to be in a supportive community growing up and was able to witness firsthand how helpful it was to our family. The different volunteering opportunities I got to experience allowed me to see more of what happens on both sides of the spectrum and see how results affected the lives of others. Moving forward, I want to continue to find ways to give back and share that experience.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?   

My greatest inspiration was throughout my shadowing experience during my undergraduate years. Witnessing the entire process of having a patient come in with uncertainty in their eyes followed by a buildup of patient-doctor trust showed me that there is more to medicine than just an illness/injury. It was touching to see each patient slowly open up as they felt more comfortable and by the care taken to maintain that built relationship. Seeing the collaboration between the team members showed me how interesting medicine can be and how important each aspect of delivering patient care was. The most exciting part was the conclusion of the treatment and seeing their relief. All these factors made me realize the intricate aspects that went into patient care and how rewarding the whole process can be. 

Why did you choose VCOM?    

I chose VCOM because of the positive interview process and interactions I had previously with the students. My first interaction with VCOM was through a summer program that I participated in. During our short stop at VCOM, I was able to see how genuinely happy all of the current students were and how excited they were to show us what VCOM had to offer. We were able to tour the campus and I knew then that VCOM would be a potential candidate to continue my career. This idea was solidified during the interview process when I was able to interact with different faculty members and was given details on what my journey would be like. I could not wait to get started.

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

I enjoyed the close proximity of VCOM to Auburn University. As an Auburn graduate, I was glad to see that I could follow medicine while still being near the university that I grew to love. I could continue to meet the friends and mentors that helped me along the way. This familiarity helped me through the transition process into medical school.

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

I am currently focused on internal medicine. The first doctor I shadowed was a nephrologist and my first area in research involved the kidneys which inspired me to think of nephrology in the future. While most of my previous experience was with the kidney itself, learning about the different organs during the GI block has left me open for more options.

The phrase “community-minded physicians” stuck with me the most when I first read the VCOM mission. I was lucky to be in a supportive community growing up and was able to witness firsthand how helpful it was to our family.

Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?

I am inspired every day by my classmates, who work hard to succeed and keep it fun along the way. Daily, I am pushed to learn more and better myself as a medical student, and I am surrounded by individuals who strive to build themselves up in the same way. At the same time, there is a shared sense of unity in that we all support each other. It is refreshing to see the encouragement put out by those around me, and this inspires me to be a source of support for both my colleagues and future patients.

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

The VCOM mission emphasizes the importance of remaining community-focused as a physician and providing care where it is needed most. As a medical student, I’ve learned about many areas within the southern region that lack access to both essential and specialized components of care. This mission has inspired me to learn about the gaps that I can help fill in the future and get involved in ongoing projects designed to fulfill this mission. Through VCOM, I’ve gotten opportunities to get involved with the community of Auburn and see where the need is even within the local community. Ultimately, the mission has taught me about the difference I can make as a future provider.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

I had many early influences that inspired me to study medicine, however, I specifically chose to become a doctor once I realized the ability it offered to impact people’s lives on a level more personal than any other. In this field, you learn how to walk with someone through some of the most difficult moments and in turn get them through it. We all experience health care at some point in our lives, and a doctor has the ability to provide comfort and confidence to patients throughout the entire process. The field of medicine is like no other, and I am loving every minute of being a part of it.

Why did you choose VCOM?

I chose VCOM because it truly stood out amongst other medical schools as a place that wanted to see me in their program as much as I wanted to be in it. VCOM not only acknowledged the professional qualities I possessed but appreciated these qualities and desired to see them come to life in their program. Applying to medical school is tough, but VCOM made me feel welcome during every step. I also wanted to place myself in an environment where I could envision myself being successful, not just during the didactic years but also during clinical rotations and residency. I was impressed with both the rotation sites offered at VCOM and the rotations available among them. I felt confident that I would have every opportunity to explore different specialties and discover my talents under the direction of highly competent physicians. I specifically came across a rotation site near my hometown, and I immediately knew this would provide me with a potential opportunity to serve the community I grew up in. I found these opportunities especially attractive and quickly knew VCOM had everything I needed to become a phenomenal doctor.

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

I love the balance between a high-energy college town and the small southern community that this area offers and the people within it. Everyone has a friendly nature about them and the community as a whole is very connected. Auburn also boasts some of the best locally-owned restaurants and coffee shops, which are great to have around after a tough week of exams. When football season comes around, I enjoy game days and all the festivities that happen just down the street from the VCOM campus. Just ten minutes in the other direction, you’ll find Chewacla State Park which has great walking trails through the forest. The town really does offer the best of both worlds. There are also many VCOM-affiliated physicians with offices in the surrounding area, providing many opportunities for students to get involved with shadowing and applying what’s taught in the classroom. This area has a lot to offer and is perfect for the life of a medical student.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Free time is a must, and I spend it doing things that keep me feeling happy, healthy, and refreshed. I especially love to get active, which usually looks like taking spin classes, walking my dog at Keisel Park, or taking advantage of the Auburn University Rec Center. I also like to spend time with my friends outside of the classroom and have really enjoyed getting involved in events and socials held by student organizations such as CMDA and ACOP. On long weekends, I drive just a few hours to my hometown which is right by the beach. It really is important to take time to yourself in medical school and there are many opportunities to spend it doing the things you enjoy.

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

I see myself pursuing a residency in anesthesiology after graduation. Prior to medical school, I was very in tune with the specialties of primary care but knew little about the practice of anesthesia or its history. Since then, I’ve learned just how phenomenal this specialty is and observed the high level of involvement it allows you to have in patient care. This specialty truly serves as the gateway allowing modern-day surgical interventions to be possible and trains the art and skill of calibrating your actions to the needs of each patient in real-time with instantaneous results. From personal experience, I know undergoing general anesthesia can be scary, and helping patients feel confident about their procedure seems extremely rewarding. I also appreciate the unique role of anesthesiologists in pain management and post-operative recovery, and how much influence they can have on a patient’s experience of care. In this specialty, I will truly get to be there for patients throughout their entire journey.

I wanted to place myself in an environment where I could envision myself being successful, not just during the didactic years but also during clinical rotations and residency. I was impressed with both the rotation sites offered at VCOM and the rotations available among them.