Congratulations to Nicholas! Premed of the Week

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. My name is Nick and I’m from De Pere, Wisconsin. I recently graduated from Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin with my bachelor’s degree in biology. I am currently applying to medical school (almost done with my secondaries – woohoo!) as I decided to take a gap year. I plan to spend my gap year working as a CNA/HUC at Waukesha Memorial Hospital in the inpatient oncology department, continuing work on my current ecology research project studying the effects of the invasive plant species, buckthorn, on aquatic ecosystems, volunteering in my community and showing physicians in departments I have yet to explore! When I’m not hitting the books or busy with my various commitments I enjoy being outdoors (hiking, boating, atving, hunting, etc.), looking at cars, and spending time with my family and friends.

2. Who was your favorite teacher in school and how did he or she impact you? My favorite teacher was easily my high school biology and anatomy teacher, Ashley Anthon. I always looked forward to attending her class because she made learning fun. However, I don’t believe the word easy is even in her vocabulary. She continually challenged us as students. At the time, the rigor of her courses was fairly overwhelming, but looking back I can say I am truly grateful for those challenges. She prepared me for the next phase of my life and helped me to develop skills that I will use for the rest of my life.

3. When did you first decide you wanted to become a doctor and why? I can’t say that I have always wanted to be a physician. However, at a young age I knew that I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to take care of others. After experiencing the deaths of all four of my grandparents and caring for each one of them in their final days, there was not a doubt in my mind that healthcare was where I was meant to be. My junior year of high school was when my dream of becoming a physician really began. My grandfather was in an ICU fighting a major Staph infection and I spent a lot of time with him. His doctor was one of the most kind and gentle people I have ever met. In addition, he knew of my interest in medicine so he took the time to explain his every move to me. He became my inspiration. However, even though I had this dream, due to fear of the unknown I took a detour. I began my college career as a nursing major, but I quickly learned that nursing wasn’t where I truly wanted to be. After my first semester of college, I changed my major to biology/pre-medicine and here I stand today. Lesson learned – if you have a dream and you’re willing to put in every ounce of effort to make it a reality, then go for it.

4. What area of medicine are you interested in? My interest is currently in oncology. I’ve had an interest in this area for quite some time, as many people who are very close to me and my family have been affected by the awful disease we call cancer.

5. What’s the coolest experience you’ve had so far on your premedical journey? The coolest experience I’ve had so far on my premedical journey was the opportunity to work through Global Brigades. Throughout the course of my involvement I have completed four medical missions, three to Nicaragua and one to Honduras. I have assisted in providing medical care to thousands of underserved rural civilians. I enjoyed every moment of the time I spent working through this organization, especially the two years I spent serving as president. I’ve created friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

6. What is your favorite book? I have to say, some of my all time favorite books are those that I was forced to read in high school. That being said, my favorite book is hands down The Giver. I vividly remember my obsession with this book and how hard it was for me to not read beyond the assigned chapters.

7. Tell us one thing interesting about you that most people don’t know. One thing interesting about me is the obsession I have with my cat. I was always a dog person until I got my own place and wanted an animal of my own. I knew I wouldn’t have time to take care of a dog, so I made a compromise and adopted my cat Kobi. He is a great companion and I wouldn’t trade him for the world. I may be a little biased, but I think he is the coolest cat out there.