The Orientation Leaders (OLs) for your orientation week have been selected! They will be working hard to make sure your orientation is fun, informative, and welcoming. We will introduce the entire group through the final two editions Vital Signs so you can get to know them before Orientation in July. Meet Group 1 below!
Margaret Baldwin
Where are you from?
Hoover, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I grew up visiting the Children's Hospital ER frequently... but for fun. My dad worked in the ER, and back then, you had to go through the chaos to get to his office. I remember being so enthralled by what was happening as I walked by— X-rays posted outside the room, casts being placed, and of course, stickers being handed out. As I’ve gotten older, this interest in the science of medicine has only strengthened, and I love the way it feels like each patient is a unique puzzle to solve, both as a medical presentation and as an individual.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I love how much there is to do in Birmingham! There is always some event going on, and even if you ate out every day of medical school, you would never be able to eat at all the great restaurants this city has to offer! My current favorite restaurant is Wasabi Juan’s.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
Before coming to medical school, I thought that everything would be a strict schedule, working from 9-5 everyday. I was very surprised to find out how much freedom I have in crafting my days, and I absolutely love how much I am able to control my schedule. There are definitely vacations you can't take sometimes because you have a test coming up, but I love that I can decide to go to a coffee shop, grab lunch with a friend, or go for a run when it works best for me.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
Being from the Birmingham area, I really wanted to come back to my hometown and be close to my family. Add on how incredible of an education UAB offers, and I think you’ll understand why this is the only school I applied to!
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
Obviously, medical school expects a lot of you. But, the change I have noticed most from my undergrad experience is how much UABSOM wants you to succeed. They are always checking in, putting on events, and offering little treats (hello MSS candy bowl!) to take the pressure off being a medical student. The community feel of UABSOM is just so much more welcoming and comforting than I had ever hoped.
Salomon Roman Soto
Where are you from?
Barquisimeto, Venezuela
What made you want to become a physician?
I underwent many surgeries for my left hand and arm while growing up due to a congenital disorder, and that experience exposed me to the role of physicians and medicine from a young age. The compassion and support I received from my providers encouraged me to explore this profession, so I began to seek out opportunities that would help me understand what practicing medicine meant. Once I realized how this profession focuses on sharing knowledge and showing compassion to those who most need it, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in this field.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Birmingham may be one of the best hidden gems in the U.S. There are so many diverse restaurants, bars, breweries, hiking trails, coffee shops, and more, that it makes it such a great city to live as a student. I have a few favorites that I think are worth sharing. My favorite spot to go to study is Revelator in downtown. The best burger you can eat is in a brewery called Back Forty. My favorite cheap restaurant has to be Blue Pacific and expensive one EastWest (Wednesday’s wings deal goes off), and favorite brunch place is Hero Donuts (free coffee for UAB students). Favorite brewery is Birmingham District.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
There is so much freedom in choosing how you want to structure your days, which still revolve around studying. But it makes it so enjoyable because you can decide where you can study, and when you’ll get a break and how you’ll enjoy it.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I went to UAB for undergrad, so I was able to know early on that there are so many great research opportunities and faculty mentors who will help you succeed into the physician you want to become. Also, as an in-state student, it made sense financially.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
There is a lot of support from the school, and there are many people and resources who will help you try to figure out who you will become after graduation. Also, it is a more mature environment where everyone is working together to get through these four years.
Anna Inman
Where are you from?
Trussville, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I have always had a passion to serve others and discovered my purpose was to pursue a career in the medical field. Both of my brothers have Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder, a neurodegenerative disease. Medicine has always been an integral part of my life and was the natural path for me. I love that it is very diverse, challenging, and always evolving. I know from personal experience that medicine is not just about giving a diagnosis, it is about the personal relationships built between a doctor and patient. I desire the role a physician takes in this relationship and knew this is where I needed to serve.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I enjoy trying out different running trails around Birmingham! I live in Homewood, so I frequently go to Jemison Park and the Lakeshore Trail.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
You will still have a life outside of medical school! I was worried before I started school that I would not have time for a lot of outside interests. This is not true and you will be able to set aside time for family, friends, and other activities that are not school related. I got married during my first semester at UAB SOM, and I was able to plan and stay on top of all my school work.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I grew up in Birmingham and my family still lives here. Being around family is important to me, and I love that I get to see them every week! I also wanted to be apart of a top-notch medical school, and UAB was the perfect fit for me.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
I have noticed that the academic load increases significantly from undergrad, but that it is doable. It requires you to study very far in advance compared to undergrad where a few days in advance was acceptable. Integrating outside resources into studying was new to me when starting medical school, so it requires some practice and time to get accustomed. The pace and pressure of medical school becomes more manageable as you progress because you learn how to best manage your time and how best to study.
Parker Cobbs
Where are you from?
Birmingham, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
My biggest mentor in life is my grandfather, who is a physician. Growing up, I realized that the values I considered most important seemed to be engrained in many I met who practiced medicine. I wanted to pursue something intellectually challenging that pushed me to grow as an individual while making a tangible difference in the lives of others. The responsibilities of a physician tick those boxes, and being one is something I've wanted to pursue for as long as I can remember.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I love how Birmingham is in the midst of undergoing a revival! The food scene is exploding here and there are so many great breweries and parks. I am a big fan of a post-test afternoon at Back40 or Ghost Train. Also, any restaurant on 2nd Ave N will impress you!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
For me, I didn't realize truly how much fun this entire experience would be. Meeting a whole new group of people from different backgrounds that share a similar passion with you is incredible. I have met some of my favorite people while at UAB. Your schedule won’t be the same as some of your friends and family working regular hour jobs and that creates a unique situation in which you can spend a lot of time with your classmates and I 100% encourage you to do so. They will be your support system when things get tough as well as celebrate with you as you all make it through each test and block!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
UAB is an incredible institution made up of physicians and researchers that are developing ground breaking treatments and focused on improving patient care for all demographics. I am very proud of how UAB represents my home state and I always hoped that I would be lucky enough to receive my medical education here.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
You will hear this time and time again, but the collaborative nature of medical school makes it exponentially better than the pre-med environment in undergrad. Everyone here is invested in making sure their classmates succeed.
Trinity Houston, M.D., MPH
Where are you from?
Oxford, Alabama
What made you want to become a physician?
I have always had the aspiration of working in healthcare and becoming a physician. I initially just thought that entailed “treating” or “curing” an illness, but my personal and professional experiences are what shed light on the impact I could truly make in medicine. As a minority woman, I’ve witnessed firsthand how social determinants of health can directly impact a person’s ability to access or receive adequate care. I hope to become a physician to improve the quality of life of those in underserved and/or disadvantaged communities.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I love that Birmingham has more than enough to do without having the overwhelming feel of a major city. It's difficult to pick a favorite spot, but I love trying out the food & bar scene in Birmingham with my friends on the weekend.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
We can and still do have social lives!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I knew coming to UAB, I would be trained by some of the top physicians, as well as be exposed to a diverse patient population. With the curriculum, patient encounters, and extracurricular experiences, I felt I would leave here prepared to be a competent and caring physician.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The content is certainly more heavy and comes a lot quicker than that of undergrad. It requires being really diligent and intentional with how you manage your time. However, I will say I love the collaborative environment that's present in medical school in comparison to undergrad. Since you don't have that added pressure of letter grades, it eliminates the competitiveness aspect normally present in school.
Harrison Reeves
Where are you from?
Dothan, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
Through witnessing the treatment of two family members with chronic medical conditions, I was inspired to become a physician so I could help those that are sick and their loved ones as well.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Living in West Homewood, I really enjoy the feeling of a small town while being extremely close to campus. I see kids walking to and from their elementary school, which seems like a clip from the 1980s movie Stand By Me. I really enjoy getting breakfast and coffee from Seeds Coffee on Saturday mornings, which is right down the road.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
Even though you are MS1, majority of your family members will already assume the MD is behind your last name and they will ask you about their health if they have anything going on. Also, I would say your close friends do not realize how our schedules can be chaotic, not standardized, and require more time than other career paths.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
Being from Dothan, AL, the prowess for the UAB Heersink School of Medicine is spoken for in itself. I personally know many successful physicians from my hometown that are excellent doctors that give thanks to their training that started in Birmingham, AL. I also believe the school is truly headed in a direction that will truly be able to change to the states public health as a whole, and we get to be the ones that can take this school to the next level thanks to the vision our school has.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
This curriculum requires so much more of a time commitment, and you are finally learning things that really will always apply to your future career choice. So even though there is more time required, the interest level for the content increases as well for me personally.
Ian Miranda, MSTP
Where are you from?
Massapequa, New York
What made you want to become a physician?
I used to work in industry science, and I really loved my job. But I felt I was giving something up by staying in that field because I always knew I wanted to work with people. Not wanting to totally abandon science, I found medicine to be the perfect intersection between my skills and my interests.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
The food, the breweries, the coffee shops. I love trying new food and Birmingham has so many spots to try that I'm afraid I won't get to them all! But being in medical school, I also found coffee to be a mainstay in my daily life. Filter Coffee Shop in 5 points is my favorite spot around UAB to get coffee or a little afternoon pick-me-up.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
I'm not sure about other people, but I have found myself applying what I learn to my everyday life. This doesn't always happen on purpose, but I'll be watching a show and the character will faint. Now was that syncope due to a cardiovascular disease, or was it because they stopped breathing? Something like that. It can be annoying sometimes, but at the same time it's pretty cool to start developing a working knowledge of medicine.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I'm in the M.D./Ph.D. program, so research was a priority when I was picking my schools. UAB is one of the most highly funded funded facilities by the NIH, and it has research in any area I could possibly be interested in. Apart from that, UAB hospital receives cases from all over the state, so students are able to see and help treat patients with really interesting backgrounds, personalities, and diagnoses. I felt all this would give me a well-rounded education and the best chances of being successful in my career.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
Since everyone in your year are taking the same classes and have many of the same opportunities, we all know what someone else is going through. When we have a bunch of lectures in a day, we know that our friends do too. This is important because it gives us reminders to check on our friends. We all have a quasi-shared experience and can help each other get through some of the more difficult blocks. "We're all in this together." - Troy Bolton
Kaitlyn Estes, Primary Care Track
Where are you from?
Mobile, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
Seeing the side of medicine from my own family's perspective. How the doctors treated my grandmother meant more to me than the actual medicine they were performing.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Rougaroux! If you like ANYTHING cajun or Nola based or seafood then go!!!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
You have time!! Use it! Travel! There is 100% time to do the things you love.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I applied ED - it was an easy choice!
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
Instead of your undergrad time being filled with things that aren't school - now your time is just school!!
Benjamin Cage
Where are you from?
Vestavia Hills, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I think a career in medicine offers me the best option to help others and overcome intellectually challenging problems
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I think Birmingham has a great food scene with a large variety only beaten by cities of significantly larger size. Local favorites of mine include (but are not limited to): Ranelli's Deli, Original Pancake House, Slice Pizza, T-Bone's Philly Cheesesteaks, and Saw's BBQ.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
However much time people think they need to put into medical school, it's more
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
Only acceptance skrt skrt.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The biggest adjustment I had to make was the time commitment that medical school requires of you. Unlike undergrad, it is a full-time job and 40-hour workweeks should be expected.
Erin LaGrone
Where are you from?
Madison, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I feel as though I was given such a blessed life and hope to bless others that weren't as fortunate!
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
There are so many things to do and I am always finding new spots! I enjoy Soho Social.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
We are just as fun as we are smart!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I thought the faculty seemed warm and welcoming and appreciate what a big hospital we have just across the street.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The expectation to keep up with your responsibilities (lecture, research, extracurriculars, etc.) is much greater, as there are far fewer "check-ins" to keep you on track. It is up to you to keep up!
Luke Anderson
Where are you from?
Florence, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
Growing up, I began to develop an interest in medicine sitting at the dinner table listen to my dad share wild stories from the ER. However, I really loved taking things apart and trying to fix them, particularly electronics and mechanical things, so engineering was really appealing to me. I did not know whether my interest in medicine was truly a calling, or if I was just so used to hearing about medicine, that I didn’t know anything else. So when I went to college, I decided to become an engineer and worry about it later. While I was in college, my religion became a really big deal to me, and I started to see the world very differently. I went from worrying about what the world had to offer me, and starting thinking about what I had to offer the world to make it a better place. I decided that medicine was the best way for me personally to try and serve other people and make the world a better place. Plus, Jesus was a healer, and I figured if He did it, it must be a good idea.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Ooooooooo… this is something I am very passionate about, because to be completely honest, I was not in ~love~ with the idea of moving to Birmingham at first. That was mostly because all of my friends in college who were from Birmingham never really seemed to like it. However, over the last year, I have absolutely fallen in love with the city. It is much smaller than I thought, which gives it a wonderful hominess (home-y-ness?), but at the same time, it is big enough to have PLENTY of things to do, both inside and out. If you are not from the south, southern hospitality is a real thing! I love the food scene and there are still soooo many restaurants that I have not had time to try. As far as my favorite local spots – for a nice afternoon, the parks located in the Highland Park area are a-maz-ing (and yes, I am a little biased as that is where I live) but seriously some of the parks turn into full dog parks when the weather is nice!! For food, you are going to have to find a time during orientation to sit down with me, because that is a conversation that is much too long for me to type, and you do not want to read my 12 page guide to Birmingham (or maybe you do!!)!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
What it is actually like to be a medical student, and let me explain. Medical school is a unique beast, in so many aspects. From the material you will study, the things you will learn, the pace you will be learning, the amount of time you will spend studying, the language you will have to learn to speak, the people you interact with, and the passion you have that allows you to do it all at once. People who have not been through it will not be able to relate, even if they try. They can try, and try they will, and the hardest part will be the fact that people will ~think/assume~ that they really DO get it. It can be frustrating when a parent or a friend keeps asking you to do things that you can’t, at least not when they want to do them, and you will have to learn to adapt to that.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
UAB was my top choice because it combined everything I thought I needed to succeed both in school and my future career as a physician. It was fairly close to my parents who are a wonderful support system to me, it was similar enough of a culture that I wouldn’t worry about liking it, but different enough that it would stretch my understanding/horizon, and it provides a wonderful education that is well-recognized throughout the country. Honestly though, the people are what really sold me. Coming here for tours and interacting with both the students and the staff made me fall in love with it before I was even a student.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
Well, if “pretty much everything” was a good answer, I would leave it at that. If I had to compare my undergraduate experience to food (you are starting to see my passions), I would describe it like a thanksgiving dinner. If you are anything like me, you fill your plate as high as you possibly can with a little (or a lot) of EVERYTHING. A little this, a little that, some of these… you get the idea. You eat WAY more than your body can handle, you have worn yourself out, and you still manage to go back for some dessert. Medical school is bit more like you are at a bakery, your ~favorite~ bakery, the bakery you have dreamt for years about going to. You finally get invited into the bakery and you ask for chocolate cake, what you have always wanted. As you look up at the person bringing you your cake, they bring you an entire XL triple layer cake and give you a spoon and they say “here is exactly what you asked for!!” Then before you even finished the first cake, they tell you they brought you a strawberry cake that you get to eat, and then a vanilla cake and then some pancakes and then a dozen cupcakes. It can feel like a lot at time, but in the same sentence, I would not trade it for the world. I absolutely love it, and I still love cake and medical school! There is also a big adjustment being surrounded by more brilliant minds than you ever have before, which can be humbling. One thing that was very different from my undergraduate experience was how accessible the administration of the school is. At my undergraduate school, I would see my advisor once a year, she would tell me all the wrong classes to take, then I would have to figure it all out on my own anyway. I do not recall ever meeting my dean or some of the heads of the programs. However, at The Heersink School of Medicine, the administrating physicians know every student by name and genuinely want you to succeed, so they stop at nothing to make sure that happens.
Amber Bell
Where are you from?
Cleveland, TN
What made you want to become a physician?
During college I fell in love with the academic side of medicine, and I knew I wanted a career that allowed me to be a lifelong learner, but it was my personal experiences that really pushed me to medicine. Being a physician is more than just treating the disease at hand, it is serving as a confidant, advocate, teacher, mentor, student, and friend, sometimes all at once. It is a career that constantly pushes you to be both a better professional and a better person.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I love studying at Red Cat, hanging out with friends in Volker, and the ridiculous amount of fantastic BBQ here. Birmingham also has a sweet small-town feeling, and I run into a surprising number of people every time I go out, so it was easy to feel at home pretty quickly!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
I didn’t realize how much personal change I would go through in such a short time. The material moves so quickly, and there are a lot of expectations and high-stakes things thrown at you back-to-back, so as the months go on and you learn how to manage it all, you build confidence in yourself and your abilities and become more secure, grounded, adaptable, determined and eager to take on whatever is next.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
1000% the people! Some of the people I met during my interview (who were complete strangers a year ago) are now my best friends who have supported one another as we got engaged, bought homes, and took on our first year of medical school.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The stakes can feel a lot higher because you naturally start thinking much further down the road than you’re used to and put a lot of self-imposed pressure on yourself. On the flip of that, we all understand exactly what our friends are going through and push each other to be our best while building amazing camaraderie.
Ben Honan
Where are you from?
Birmingham, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I grew up with family in healthcare, and for a long time this dissuaded me from entering the field in any capacity. I was intimidated by the responsibility of making decisions that so directly impact other people’s health. In college, I somewhat randomly ended up taking a Spanish class where I interpreted for patients in a free clinic. The vulnerable interactions and relationships I forged with patients there served as the pivotal experience by which I discovered what medicine could mean to me personally.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
To me, Birmingham feels like a big city but there is hardly any traffic. I have enjoyed exploring the different parks around town this year, such as Ruffner Mountain and Red Mountain. Also, my friends and I usually visit different breweries and hole-in-the-wall eateries on the weekends or after tests. My favorite is Blue Pacific, a Thai restaurant inside an old food mart in Hoover.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
Age doesn’t matter when you’re a med student. I thought I’d be a deviation from the norm since I didn’t come here straight from undergrad. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it seems most people here took some time in between - but more importantly, I found that no one really cares. Some of your closest friends will be 31 and some will be 22, but you’ll constantly forget who is what age since we’re all walking the same path now that we’re here.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
UAB has a genuinely phenomenal reputation, both in clinical excellence and in research. I therefore felt lucky that this is was my in-state institution. Despite this school’s prestige, I found during the interview process that the UAB students and faculty were friendly and relatable. I felt most comfortable and welcomed here.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
Every day here is different. The schedule of lectures and activities is made available to students in advance (and most are not mandatory), but unlike undergrad, there’s no repeating weekly schedule. I have enjoyed this variability, but it necessitates keeping up with my schedule more attentively than I did before.
Natalie Dorin
Where are you from?
Florence, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I’ve always loved learning every little detail about the way that things work, so even in high school biology class, I loved getting into the nitty gritty of how and why things happened. My dad is a physician, so I was also always exposed to the medical field. The first time I got to watch him do surgery, I was hooked! I realized it was a career filled with constant learning that would excite me constantly.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I’m from a small town, so I love that there’s always something to do! My list of places and activities to try in Birmingham is so long that I doubt I’ll ever get through it, especially because new things are popping up all the time. My favorite activity is going for walks! There are tons of great parks and trails in Homewood and Mountain Brook. It makes for a great study break!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
Although your life won’t really be the same once starting med school, it will actually be REALLY fun! You’re definitely more busy than before, but I found that you start to naturally appreciate the small things much more- like a weekend with no studying, a night out with friends, or even just hanging out in a study room with friends. I didn’t realize how close I would actually become to my classmates. The people I’ve met here have quickly become my closest friends, so spending the day in class or studying with them feels like a treat and not a chore!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I chose UAB because the culture here is exactly what I was looking for in a school. I always felt so comfortable and welcome right from the beginning of my interview with UAB. I wanted a school where I felt at home, and I wanted classmates that lifted me up and wanted me to succeed alongside them, and that is exactly what I got with UAB!
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
For me, the biggest pressure is the fact that I have now reached the goal that I’ve been working towards my whole adult life- going to medical school. I had a clear cut road on how to get to medical school, but now the road to deciding what field of medicine to go into is a lot less clear. Although it’s such an exciting thing to figure out, it can be pretty scary trying to decide what your future holds!
Kyle Landers, MSTP
Where are you from?
Enterprise, Alabama
What made you want to become a physician?
I grew a military child and we moved around a lot. Living overseas and in different states, I began to have a love for meeting people of different backgrounds. I believe being a physician wil allow me to continue having these great experiences.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
My favorite quality about Birmingham is how it continues to suprises me with different things to do. I was at UAB for undergrad and I'm still finding new cool things to do in town. My favorite local spot though is the coffee shop Filter in five points. They have some of the best coffee in town!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
How much free time you can actually have. Yes, there is a lot of studying but I'm surprised on the flexibility it offers. There are days where you will be exhuasted but having the flexbility to go at your own pace or take a break is really nice.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
In all honesty, it was a decision on familiarity. Going through application process and having to make a decision virtually, I didn't feel comfortable going somehwere I had not visited. Yet the more I spend time at UAB, I've learned just how amazing of an institution it is. As one of the largest institutions in the south, we get to see some of the most unique cases and meet people of all different backgrounds. In addition, the state is ranked amongst the worst in health outcomes, however I see it as potential for us as future physicians to have the largest impact to improve the well being of our patients.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
One of the biggest differences I've noticed is how adaptive you become. Sometimes how you study for one exam or black may not be the most efficient the next time but thats okay! In undergrad, I would just use the material from the professors but now I attempt to pull things together from two or three places. I think the other biggest thing is having grace with yourself. In undergrad, I always shot for the best grades I could get and normally that would be As and Bs. In medical school, that is for sure NOT the case, but that's okay! At the end of the day, we just need to pass and if that meanns making a mid C but I'm still doing well mentally and physcially, I am more than happy to take it!
Gabriela Fonseca
Where are you from?
Atlanta, GA
What made you want to become a physician?
After undergoing surgery and being a patient myself at a young age, I witnessed the complex physician-patient relationship and healthcare setting from the other side. I was scared, confused, and vulnerable. This experience gave me deeper levels of sensitivity and compassion for patients, motivating me to treat people, not just diseases. It made me realize how doctors heal patients physically, but also emotionally by restoring hope and alleviating anxieties. I hope to give back to another twelve-year-old little girl seeking reassurance, as I once was.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Being from Atlanta, I love that there’s no traffic and everything is close by! My favorite spot is O’Henry’s Coffee in Highland Park. I spend lots of hours studying there, but their conecuh biscuit is amazing and worth it!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
While school is challenging and you do study a lot, the friends you make, especially in your small groups, are amazing and life-long. I have never been so close to others in such little time. They are similar to you, will understand everything you're going through, and a great support system. The people definitely make medical school worth it.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
Besides the prestige and how well-known UAB is, I felt from my interview like the people here would help me and support me. The feeling of being connected and supported not only by my peers but by the faculty were important to me as I continued my education and ultimately apply for residency.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The biggest difference is the time commitment and work load. While in undergrad you could study 3 hours and confidently ace an exam, sometimes it feels like in medical school you study 15 and still don't know the content. While sometimes scary and an adjustment, everyone finds what works best for them and it all works out in the end!
Riley Duke
Where are you from?
Oak Grove, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I met a child with cystic fibrosis when I was in high school and became interested in how medical knowledge could help improve quality of life. I knew that I wanted a career that demanded a particular set of physical skill and practice, and I found those qualities in medicine through shadowing and working with many physicians during college.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Birmingham offers a lot of different activities while keeping a small city feeling to it. My wife and I love grabbing a beer at the different breweries, eating some great food (The Essential is a must try), and getting outside to enjoy Red Mountain Park or Oak Mountain State Park.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
Your time is much more flexible in medical school than some people might think. Once you get a feel for how you like to review material, scheduling your time around mandatory sessions and exams for things like exercising, hanging out, hobbies, and even weekend trips is much more accessible and greatly improved my happiness.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I grew up in a small, rural community an hour and a half away from Birmingham. If you got really sick, UAB Hospital is where you went. As I gained more experience within medicine, I realized that I wanted to attend medical school at an institution that could offer excellent opportunities for career exploration and research while still providing support for students' well-being. I found all these attributes at the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, while feeling like I could help serve people in the Southeastern US.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The material you cover throughout medical school is not to be crammed for the next test and forgotten. Medicine requires a lot of integration and problem solving for the long term.
Nikki Sullivan
Where are you from?
Birmingham, Alabama
What made you want to become a physician?
I love learning and interacting with people. Medicine felt like the best way (for me personally) to serve God and care for other people.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I love all the new coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. Be sure to check out Miami Fusion Cafe for lunch!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
We are still able to have personal lives and to do fun things outside of school!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
UAB has a great reputation, and I had heard many positive things from current students. It has been a great experience so far!
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
They definitely expect you to learn a lot of information very quickly, but I have honestly found it less stress-inducing than undergraduate because it's pass/fail, so there's no pressure to keep straight As.
Taylor Golden, Primary Care Track/RMSP
Where are you from?
Muscle Shoals, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
It was a combination of my faith, passion for serving others, and a desire to continually learn and grow that influenced me to pursue a future in medicine. I believe there is something truly special about being there for people in some of their most vulnerable moments and using your personal gifts to make an impact that can positively influence the rest of their lives. As a future physician, I'll have the opportunity to do that every day!
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
My favorite thing about living in Birmingham is that there is always something different to do! Whether it's trying a new restaurant downtown, going to a concert at Avondale, or walking around the Farmer's Market at Pepper Place on Saturdays, it's hard to get bored around here. My favorite local spots are Jemison Park and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. I love to spend my free time outdoors, and nothing beats a long walk with friends after a long day of studying.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
That there is still time in your schedule to have fun and try new things--it just may take a little more planning.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I grew up hearing only outstanding things about the Heersink School of Medicine and always imagined myself attending medical school here. There is such a deep sense of community that I can't imagine experiencing on the same level anywhere else.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
It is true what they say about medical school being like "drinking out of a fire hydrant" compared to undergrad. However, there is definitely a "we're all in this together" mentality in medical school and the collaboration among classmates helps tremendously.
Mckinley Williams
Where are you from?
Albertville, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I have always been passionate about working with people, and I think that is where it began for me. Advocacy and service are two big aspects that drew me to medicine, as well as the opportunity to be in a field that is ever-changing and allows me to continue learning throughout my career.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I have been in Birmingham for 5 years now and love it. My favorite part of living here is the entertainment, there are so many breweries, concerts, restaurants, and leagues that you will never be without something to do.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
Something most people don't realize about medical school is the intense feeling of community within your class, and how close you get to those around you through being in this phase of our lives together.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
UAB is full of opportunities, and so is Birmingham. I knew UAB was a place where I would see everything and have great mentors to help guide where I should go within medicine.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The main difference is learning how to best manage your time in order to allow yourself to be a real human. It's hard learning how to juggle medical school responsibilities without neglecting something somewhere else in your life, so the learning curve of prioritizing a routine and setting boundaries was the most different for me.
Boyd Price, Rural Medicine Scholars Program
Where are you from?
Clanton, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted to follow in my father's footsteps and become a physician. I grew up in a fairly small town and heard many stories from patients about how my dad got them feeling well again. The career and life of a small town doctor has always fascinated me due to how much they can influence the overall health of a smaller community. It has always been my dream to have that same impact someday.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I love the food scene in Birmingham. I went to undergrad in Birmingham and there has been so many new spots pop up in the short time I have been here. My favorite spot would be Martin's Bar-B-Que or SoHo Social.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
That you will have plenty of free time to enjoy life outside of school.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
UAB has always been my first choice for where I wanted to attend medical school. This was solidified even more as I did my undergraduate years in Birmingham and fell in love with the city.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
I have to be more disciplined with my schedule and the time that I set aside for studying or other things. In undergrad, I was able to be more unorganized, which I realized very quickly would not work while in medical school.
Meredith Burns
Where are you from?
Athens, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I have always been intrigued by the human body and have known that I want to go into the medical field since high school, but it is really the experiences I have had since then that have furthered my desire to pursue a career as a physician. I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing physicians over the past few years, and seeing the depth of knowledge they have obtained and the positive impact they are able to have on their patients' lives only solidified my decision to pursue this career.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
My favorite things about living in Birmingham are living in the same city as some of my family and friends and always having something fun to do! One of my favorite things to do in Birmingham is to go to Pepper Place farmers market on a Saturday morning (especially if it's fall and I have a coffee in hand).
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
A lot of people don't realize that being in medical school is actually really fun! It is definitely a lot of hard work, but most people have a work hard-play hard mentality, plus having a great group of friends to do medical school with makes it much more enjoyable!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
I knew that UAB was a fantastic medical school that would prepare me for a career as a physician prior to interviewing here, but it was ultimately the people I met that made me feel like this school was the right fit for me. UAB has an amazing faculty made up of talented people who truly care about both the success and well-being of their students, and I have felt nothing but support and encouragement throughout my time here.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
Being a professional school student is a big time commitment that is essentially a full-time job. There is a lot of material that you have to keep up with each day, and it is much harder to catch up if you fall behind compared to being an undergrad student. On the bright side, being a professional school student is also a lot more rewarding! You are finally getting to do what you have been wanting to do, and you get to do it alongside a community of people who are all passionate about the same thing as you.
Ian Tsekouras
Where are you from?
Montgomery, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
The unique opportunity to immediately impact someone's well-being combined with prolonged patient relationships attracted me.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Birmingham is the perfect place for medical school! There are more than enough ways to spend your free time no matter what you enjoy doing. Railroad Park downtown has been a great place to go on walks throughout the week, and I am a big foodie so trying new restaurants has been a blast!
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
It's not all school. Granted, most of it is, but enjoying your free time when you get it is essential for good mental health.
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
The Heersink School of Medicine provides so many opportunities to learn about specialties and get involved. The physicians are very willing to let medical students shadow, and the numerous student organizations do a great job connecting students with information and connections.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
Although the exams are difficult, you only really have one core class at a time. While in undergrad you could have four exams in one week, we usually only have one exam to worry about at a time which is really nice.
Gracie Trulove
Where are you from?
Montgomery, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
I grew up with a brother on the autism spectrum. Being a year older than him, I was often taken along to doctor’s appointments and highly involved in aspects of his day-to-day care. Caring for my brother and seeing how the care provided by physicians impacted not only my brother but our entire family inspired me to provide that kind of meaning and hope to others. I can’t think of a better way to support families and patients through difficult times than being there to walk alongside them as a medical provider.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I love all of the hiking locations - Red Mountain and Ruffner are personal (and affordable) favorites :)
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
We enjoy talking about things other than science and school, even while in the physical school building. Some of the most enjoyable conversations I've had in Volker have been about podcasts, sumo wrestling, and grilled cheese. Medical students can be just as quirky and fun as the next person!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
Being an in-state resident, having an institution with an abundance of opportunity in different specilialties.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
There is a lot of pressure, more so than ever, to appear put together and intelligent. My biggest piece of advice would be to stay open to being wrong. Don't be afraid to answer a question or speak up even if it results in "being wrong" in front of your peers and professors. The discomfort now will be worth the personal growth in the end :)
Anna Paige Wilson
Where are you from?
Huntsville, AL
What made you want to become a physician?
My love for medicine began in the office of my pediatrician. She was brilliant, kind, and always willing to go the extra mile to provide the best care for my three sisters and I. My decision to pursue medicine stemmed from a love of science but an even greater love for people. While I love learning and am fascinated by the human body, there is nothing I enjoy more than forming relationships with people and hearing their stories.
What do you like about living in Birmingham? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I have actually been surprised by how much I like living in Birmingham! My favorite local spot would have to be Crestline Bagel. It's the perfect spot for breakfast with friends.
What is something about being a medical student that more people don’t realize?
I think that most people don’t realize how much support you will receive from your classmates. Some of my favorite moments from this year have been spending time with my medical school friends and getting to know them on a deeper level. I have found them to be some of the most brilliant, passionate, and fun people that I know!
What made you choose the UAB Heersink School of Medicine?
Growing up in Huntsville, I knew the reputation that UAB Heersink School of Medicine had for excellent educators and compassionate patient care. Most of my favorite physicians attended UAB Heersink School of Medicine and I am excited to follow in their footsteps. It also allows me to stay close to my family which is very important to me.
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed in being a professional school student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergrad or graduate school student?
The biggest thing that I have noticed is the importance of trying to maintain balance in your life. While it can be tempting to spend the whole day studying, it is equally as important to do the things that make you happy and spend time with the important people in your life. Taking time to have dinner with friends, go on a walk, or read a book will help your grades more than you realize!