What drew you to WSU Kinesiology?
- I have always been a sports enthusiast and was inspired by all of the doors that would be open to me with a kinesiology degree, whether it was medicine, physical therapy, sports training, etc.
What school and program did you go to after graduating from WSU?
- I attended Pacific Northwest University College of Osteopathic Medicine from 2019-2023
What practical/internship/shadowing experiences did you pursue at WSU and how did these impact your career choice and application to grad/professional school?
- I volunteered in the Pullman Regional Hospital emergency department, an assisted living facility in Moscow, youth sports in Pullman. I volunteered in a research lab for my organic chemistry professor. I held a leadership role with the pre-health club at WSU. Each of these opportunities confirmed my passion to work in a healthcare field where I could care for others.
What skills (for example, communication, critical thinking, empathy, teamwork, etc.) have been most important to your journey from undergraduate student to grad/professional school and career?
- Being able to communicate and make connections along the way is a skill that has helped my journey. The path through medical school and residency is a long one which teaches resiliency and how important it is to be surrounded by people who support you and provide encouragement along the way.
What was the most challenging part of transitioning from your undergraduate degree to graduate/professional school, and then your healthcare career?
- The most challenging transition from undergraduate to graduate school is learning how to create a work-life balance. Graduate school requires a significant amount of time studying outside the hours spent in the classroom. It’s important to find a balance of dedicating study time but also continuing to do the things that bring you the most joy.
What advice do you have for 1st year undergrads?
- Don’t feel like the path you started on has to be the path you finished on! Don’t be scared to explore all the career pathways that are out there.
What advice do you have for 4th year undergrads?
- Get organized early on when it comes to looking at different grad schools/programs or careers. Reach out to people in your desired field/route and make those connections!