“It’s been a tremendous amount of work and sacrifice,” said Ian. “Going back to school in my thirties has been quite the ride.”
Alumni Connect (AC): What made you realize you wanted to change professions?
Ian: Growing up, I always wanted to be a doctor. My father is a physician. I remember him leaving the house in the morning with his white coat and coming home with stories about how he helped his patients.
I started my undergraduate studies as a pre-med student at Emory University in Atlanta. But, after 9/11, I developed a keen interest in politics. I transferred to the University of Miami and dropped pre-med to study political science. After graduation, I enrolled at St. Thomas University School of Law. I enjoyed studying the law and having my own practice, but as the days wore on, I thought more and more about fulfilling my original dream of practicing medicine.
So after a lot of planning, I decided to go for it! I closed my practice and spent two years completing prerequisite science courses at Florida Atlantic University. I then began medical school at Nova Southeastern University and am now in my final year.
AC: What has been your favorite part of this experience?
Ian: It has been a very difficult but tremendous experience. For me, what makes medicine so meaningful is the interaction with patients and the true impact a doctor can have on others. I spent last year at Broward Health. Working with patients, helping them through the course of their stay, and impacting their health has without a doubt been my favorite part of the entire experience.
AC: What is next for you?
Ian: Applying for Family Medicine residency and finishing school! I will find out in February or March where I will end up, and after graduation I will be a resident physician. We’ll see what happens after that!
AC: Do you have advice for young alumni or recent Pine Crest graduates just starting their college careers?
Ian: Don’t settle on a major right away, keep an open mind, and take classes in a bunch of academic disciplines. You never know where the road of life will take you. And most importantly, enjoy college - it’s an incredible four years!