Olivia: Exceeding expectations
Alumni scholarships give next generation physicians-in-training a chance to contribute more
Every year a new group of graduates are welcomed into the University of Michigan alumni family. M4 Olivia will become a member at next year’s commencement. As a recipient of a generous alumni scholarship for the past four years, Olivia already has a special connection to this community.
At this year’s Reunion Weekend, Olivia will join our alumni guests as the student speaker and thank them in person for the positive impact their gifts have on students like herself.
Here she answers six questions about what she’s been able to accomplish in medical school and her hopes for the future.
I feel very fortunate. Having scholarship assistance in med school has definitely reduced my financial stress. I’ve been able to focus on school and doing things that I love to do rather than being worried about how I’m going to pay for tuition or other bills. I am honored to be speaking at Reunion 2016 and super excited to meet some of our awesome alumni. They do so much for current students.
There is so much I’m looking forward to! Mostly I’m excited to see what the future has in store for my friends and me. It’s a time of considerable change … and that’s exciting.
I recently applied to anesthesia residencies across the country. I have no idea where I will end up but feel confident that the University of Michigan had prepared me well for the next step.
Something I really strived for during med school was being able to maintain a balance between personal and professional demands. I think the same will hold true for the future; I want to become a great clinical anesthesiologist but will also make sure to find time for other things that make me happy (family, friends, running, etc.).
Too many to name! Just to list a few: M1 anatomy, the Galens Medical Society Smoker, vacationing with med school friends during our valued breaks, being able to first assist in a surgery during M3 year, my first intubation, etc.
During my White Coat Ceremony one of the speakers focused on how Michigan Med is a family, and after the last four years I definitely agree. I’ve met some of my best friends, amazing mentors and great people. It’s been life changing. Michigan is certainly one of the best medical schools in the country.