Embarking on a journey in medicine isn’t simply about textbooks or hours spent in labs. It’s about passion, perseverance, and personal growth, shaped by the experiences that define one’s life. This is the story of Emily Mathijs, a medical student at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM), whose path to medicine is inspiring and deeply rooted in her desire to give back to her community.
**From Ukraine to a New Beginning**
Emily’s journey began long before she entered a medical school classroom. Born in Ukraine, she and her family immigrated to the United States for a better life. Motivated by the hope of brighter opportunities for their children, Emily’s parents arrived with dreams of a fresh start. The support they received from generous volunteer organizations played a crucial role in their transition to their new home. This early exposure to the power of community service had a lasting impact on Emily.
Since age 10, Emily has been actively involved in volunteer work alongside her mother. Their efforts began with nursing homes and hospitals, where Emily developed a passion for helping others. She said, “My journey started when my parents came from Ukraine. They came here because they wanted a better life for me and my brother.”
**Early Inspirations and the Call to Medicine**
As she grew older, Emily’s desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives evolved into a calling to medicine. Her volunteer experiences in hospitals allowed her to immerse herself in the healthcare world, where she found her true purpose. Inspiration also came from within her family—her brother, a pioneer in their family’s medical journey, became the first doctor in their household. Emily’s admiration for her brother’s accomplishments only fueled her medical career ambition.
**Overcoming Barriers and Embracing Opportunities**
Emily’s story is not only one of ambition but also of overcoming significant historical barriers. As a member of a Jewish family, she was deeply aware of the struggles her ancestors faced in Ukraine, where Jews were once barred from entering medical school. The opportunity to study medicine in the United States filled Emily with immense gratitude and reinforced her sense of purpose. She reflects, “Coming from Ukraine, my parents are Jewish, and Jews were not allowed to go into medical school at that time.”
**Choosing Osteopathic Medicine**
In her search for a medical path aligned with her values, Emily found osteopathic medicine to be the perfect fit. The holistic approach to healthcare resonated deeply with her, focusing on treating the whole person rather than just addressing symptoms. Emily’s decision to pursue osteopathic medicine at MSUCOM became a turning point in her educational journey. One of her first experiences, working with Detroit Street Care, provided invaluable exposure to the diverse and vulnerable populations needing compassionate care.
**Real-World Challenges and Personal Triumphs**
Emily’s passion for medicine was tested during her internal medicine rotations. There, she encountered a 17-year-old Hispanic immigrant from Venezuela suffering from a severe leg infection. Language barriers complicated his access to medical care. Still, Emily’s ability to communicate in Spanish became a crucial bridge, enabling her to advocate for him and ensure he received the necessary treatment.
Her efforts paid off when, months later, the patient sent her pictures of his healed leg, a testament to her commitment and the impact of compassionate care. Emily says, “Just that little extra touch can sometimes honestly change a patient’s life.”
**Looking Ahead: The Future in Orthopedic Surgery**
With her medical education underway, Emily is focused on her dream of specializing in orthopedic surgery. As she moves through the application process, she acknowledges the invaluable support she has received from the Michigan Osteopathic College Foundation (MOCF) scholarship. The scholarship has made her dream of becoming a doctor more attainable and affirmed her commitment to giving back to others.
**Giving Back in Gratitude**
For Emily, her journey is not solely about personal achievements. As a wife and mother, she understands the broader impact of the support she’s received. Emily looks forward to paying it forward and helping others achieve their dreams just as she has been helped. “I’m truly grateful for what the scholarship has done for me and look forward to paying it forward to others when I have the means.”
**Conclusion**
Emily Mathijs’ story powerfully reminds us that the path to medicine is more than just an academic pursuit. It is a journey driven by empathy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Emily’s dedication to overcoming obstacles and advocating for patients serves as a beacon of inspiration for future medical professionals. Through her story, we are reminded that medicine is not merely a career but a vocation that can transform lives and uplift entire communities.
