What MD Students Say

Matt, Class of 2027

What’s the best part of the MD curriculum?

It is the extent to which clinical concepts are integrated into our didactic courses. We do not learn about anything in isolation — everything is interconnected. For example, during our cardiology block we not only learn the physiology of the cardiovascular system, but also the associated pathology, appropriate clinical interventions, and how to perform a cardiovascular exam on a patient. This helps us make connections between conditions that we learn about in the classroom and the ways they may present in real patients — even before we begin our clinical rotations.

What do you love about the learning environment?

I have been highly impressed by the level of investment and passion shown by our instructors. Lecturers, mentors, physicians, administrators and staff all want us to succeed, and knowing that they believe we will is very helpful in fostering a positive and successful learning environment.

What has shaped your success?

My willingness to adapt this past year was imperative to my success and I am sure that will continue to be important as I begin rotations. I adjusted my sleep schedule, my studying, my approach to relationships and more. I am extremely grateful for my strong support system — including academic support services, my girlfriend and my family. I firmly believe it is the key to anyone’s success in medical school.

Five words to describe your classmates?

• Collaborative
• Accomplished
• Diverse
• Passionate
• Innovative

Eden, Class of 2025

Why UW?

I chose to attend the UW School of Medicine and Public Health due to the longstanding commitment to community and public health. I knew the training I would receive here would allow me to serve underrepresented communities in the future.

What’s the best part of the MD curriculum?

I like the integration of public health throughout all the course work, the collaboration with classmates in small groups, the opportunity to meet with a Longitudinal Teacher/Coach (LTC) throughout the four years, and the wonderful learning specialists.

What has shaped your success?

My classmates — especially my Training in Urban Medicine and Public Health (TRIUMPH) cohort, my mentors and my family!

How do you relax and have fun?

I love trying new coffee shops and restaurants, going on walks with my partner and dog, and exploring all the unique neighborhoods in Milwaukee.

Andy, Class of 2025

Why UW?

Growing up in rural Wisconsin, I was acutely aware of the lack of physicians in rural areas. When I decided to go to medical school, I knew I wanted to take care of patients who live in those underserved communities. The Wisconsin Academy for Rural Medicine (WARM) perfectly aligned with my ideals and desire to train in and return to rural Wisconsin.

What’s the best part of the MD curriculum?

The emphasis on public health in our curriculum is truly unique. From our first day of medical school to our acting internships in Phase 3, public health is a core concept that teaches us how to address challenges our patients face outside the hospital and clinic.

What has shaped your success?

As a WARM student, I have had an incredible amount of one-on-one time with attending physicians. I have often been acting in the capacity of a resident: counseling patients, doing procedures and acting as first-assist in the operating room. Having such strong supervised autonomy has built confidence in my clinical skills that will continue to serve me well after graduation.

Five words to describe your classmates?

• Compassionate
• Energetic
• Engaged
• Optimistic
• Dynamic

Bipasha, Class of 2027

Why UW?

I loved UW’s focus on public health within the general curriculum, as well as the opportunity to choose a Path of Distinction in public health (among many other options such as medical education, research and bioethics). I was also excited to explore the opportunities offered by a large research institution, such as the Shapiro Summer Research Program. I liked the idea of the health sciences facilities being on one side of the expansive campus, directly connected to the hospital, making it easy to focus on school while still having access to the wonderful libraries, student unions and UW sports events on the busier side of campus.

What’s the best part of the MD curriculum?

The systems-based format of the ForWard Curriculum, combining anatomy, physiology, clinical skills, and pathology, sounded daunting but has proven to be a very synergistic way of learning about the human body. Applying content to case-based learning sessions helps increase understanding. Early clinical experiences with community preceptors get us out of the classroom and remind us that we are studying for our future patients.

What has shaped your success?

My Longitudinal Teacher/Coach (LTC) and my house mentor have been key to helping me stay grounded when things get overwhelming. It can feel really isolating when you are struggling, but they remind me that I am not the only one and guide me towards the path of success.

Five words to describe your classmates?

• Inclusive
• Diverse
• Social
• Uplifting
• Bright

Anna, Class of 2027

Why UW?

Growing up in Wisconsin and graduating from UW–Madison, I ventured out of state to explore various opportunities, including teaching biology in Bangkok and living in Washington, D.C. and New York City. I am delighted to be back in my home state, where I feel deeply connected, close to family and friends, and to be pursuing this new chapter in my medical career.

What’s the best part of the MD curriculum?

The ForWard Curriculum integrates clinical experiences with classroom learning from the very beginning of medical school, which emphasizes active learning and early patient interactions.

What do you love about the learning environment?

The pass/fail grading system is a standout feature. It reduces stress, fosters collaboration and allows for a healthier school-life balance.

How do you relax and have fun?

Madison is a welcoming city and you can find ways to make it your own. I love walking and biking around the city, especially with the scenic beauty of the lakes nearby. There is a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a variety of live performances and music venues. As the state capital, Madison has a unique energy that makes living here incredibly fulfilling.

Sakar, Class of 2027

What’s the best part of the MD curriculum?

The best part is that we get to be involved in patient care from the first day. Our first session of medical school involves interacting with and learning from patients.

What do you love about the learning environment?

The faculty and staff are extremely responsive to feedback and allow students to lead change.

What has shaped your success?

Being open to opportunities and not afraid to be vulnerable!

How do you relax and have fun?

The campus is beautiful. Between the Memorial Union Terrace and the State Capitol there is everything you would hope for! There are many fun things around the city and lots of amazing food places on campus.

Brigid, Class of 2027

Why UW?

I was eager for the academic rigor and other opportunities that go along with being at a major academic institution. I grew up in the Milwaukee area and was also happy to be closer to family and home. Because I am passionate about urban health, I was also very excited about the possibilities associated with the Training in Urban Medicine and Public Health (TRIUMPH) program, with rotations based out of Milwaukee.

What do you love about the learning environment?

I love the standing desks in the library and the proximity of the Health Sciences Learning Center to Lake Mendota. One of my favorite things about Madison is the beautiful outdoor scenery, so the medical school’s location is ideal to appreciate that asset.

What has shaped your success?

Feeling supported has made an immense difference in my life, and this year both family and peer support have been critical to my enjoyment of the academic experience and resilience when I start to feel overwhelmed. Taking care of my physical health by staying active has been essential for my success this year, as well. I have found that reviewing lectures or doing flashcards while on a spin bike or walking on a treadmill has allowed me to multitask and still take care of my overall well-being.

How do you relax and have fun?

I love spending time with my classmates, especially being active together. This year, I joined a medical student swim group that meets weekly at the Bakke Recreation Center, and I loved playing intramural futsal and soccer with a group of other medical students. We also have enjoyed studying together at various local coffee shops, playing pick-up volleyball on sunny days, and going to local trivia nights when our academic schedule allows.

Tikiri, Class of 2027

Why UW?

The reputation of the school, as well as clinical and research opportunities, drew me.

What’s the best part of the MD curriculum?

I really enjoy our patient panels — they highlight the importance of the material we are learning.

What do you love about the learning environment?

I appreciate the very robust support system. From Longitudinal Teacher/Coaches (LTCs) to learning specialists, there are multiple people invested in your success.

Five words to describe your classmates?

• Empathetic
• Caring
• Hardworking
• Funny
• Intelligent

How do you relax and have fun?

I enjoy working out and hanging out with friends. I also enjoy aviation.