SWAG视频has given me a clear vision of the kind of doctor I want to become鈥攐ne who leads with compassion, works tirelessly for others, and makes a lasting difference.
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 SWAG视频mission inspired you as a medical student?
VCOM鈥檚 mission has genuinely inspired me as a medical student by shaping how I view my future role as a physician. Being a doctor isn鈥檛 just about treating illnesses. It鈥檚 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鈥檓 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. SWAG视频has given me a clear vision of the kind of doctor I want to become鈥攐ne 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鈥攖he ability to navigate complex situations with skill, communicate with compassion, and remain a steady source of guidance during life鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥檛 see me as just another number but would treat my peers and me like real people. SWAG视频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鈥檝e got three cats and a dog who are basically real life Looney Tunes, they always keeping things interesting! I鈥檓 a big fan of fantasy novels, and my favorite authors are Patrick Rothfuss and Brandon Sanderson. I鈥檓 also into gaming and love playing multiplayer games like Apex Legends and Old School RuneScape. Recently, I鈥檝e started getting into golf with my classmates, and it鈥檚 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鈥檝e 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鈥檚 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.