A Student's Perspective: Catherine Williams, MP '19

                                                                                                                                                                                         Catherine Williams, D.P.M. is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. Read about her experience in MEDPREP, in her own words, below.                                                                           

Greetings,

My name is Catherine Sue Williams, a proud native Arkansan, who was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas.   My passion for medicine commenced when I was eight years old when I lost my father to colon cancer unfortunately. It has since been strengthened through my experiences volunteering in health clinics, shadowing various specialties in medicine, conducting research on Alzheimer’s disease, and much more.

After graduating from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology, I went on to receive a Master of Public Health with an emphasis in biostatistics on the campus of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). My studies in public health have exposed me to the realities of the healthcare system. For example, I understand there can be a lack of diversity within the healthcare system which affects diversity and cultural competency across patient care, research, education, and outreach. Minority patients often do not have the option of selecting providers who look like them or evaluate their issues born out of a complete understanding of their unique concerns. As a double minority in medicine, I will have the opportunity to contribute and improve upon a future where all patients receive the same quality care and understanding.

My passion for medicine and becoming a medical doctor has remained steadfast over the years. Knowing this must continue, I looked to the SIU MEDPREP Program in the summer of 2017 for the next academic and challenging environment. One of the reasons why I enrolled in MEDPREP was to gain a deeper level of understanding for the basic sciences. To date, each course has exposed me to the content and demands of medical school as well as the challenges to come. Because of MEDPREP, I have gained invaluable tools such as time management skills, test-taking skills, and concept mapping skills that will serve me well in the future. 

Participating in MEDPREP Club has provided additional opportunities for service to the community. As a member, I worked in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity to assist in building a dream home for a single mother. In addition to community outreach, I serve as the admissions representative for MEDPREP Admission Day for the 2018-2019 school year. My participation offers prospective applicants the opportunity to feel welcome and encourage their own participation in the MEDPREP program which can help them achieve their goals of becoming a physician or dentist.

I am happy that I made the decision to attend MEDPREP. Clearly, it has presented some of the best opportunities toward developing long lasting relationships with my peers and the MEDPREP faculty. I will always cherish the program and the people dedicated to making this chosen career in medicine work for me personally.

Respectfully,