Matthew is currently finishing his second year at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Parker, Colorado. He will be moving to Rapid City, South Dakota, in August to begin rotations at Rapid City Regional Hospital.
WHAT YOU DO • • • I am currently studying the various systems of the human body, their pathologies and physiologies as well as basic medical and surgical procedures. The next step after I take my boards in June will be in clinic, utilizing these disciplines firsthand.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU • • • I always tell people when they ask me this question that I feel that I was meant to do this work; to complete medical school and to be a physician.
HOW YOU WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE • • • I want to complete my training and become a rural physician in the Midwest. I want to provide a good living to my wife and kids, be a kind and honest physician to my patients, and be a pillar of my community so that I can help to inspire and guide future generations.
HOW BETHANY HAS PREPARED YOU • • • I couldn’t have received better training both in the classroom and outside of it. I was very involved in both the chemistry and biology departments at Bethany. The lessons I learned in chemistry, anatomy, physiology and even communication have given me an advantage over many of my fellow medical students. Additionally, the Bethany role models that got me through my undergraduate studies also set a wonderful example of how to live a day-to-day life. The spiritual guidance has led me to take on a integral role in my church body. To supplement my coursework, I was able to hold a medically-related job, volunteer at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, and secure internships working in labs at Oregon’s Health and Science University and the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Along with the guidance I received while studying for the medical college admission test, these experiences allowed me to get into medical school the first year I applied.
WHAT YOU REMEMBER MOST • • • What I miss most is the feeling of belonging. Bethany is like a really big family. Oh, and I really miss the wings at the Tav and all the good times we had there.
ADVICE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS • • • Find your niche and make friends. If you are interested in a certain career or job utilize the resources at hand, such as the professors and staff. People have gone on to do some amazing things from this school and as long as you are willing to put in the time and energy you can really surprise yourself.