Meredith Flamm’s winding path at SIU, where science meets service
A young girl sits in a chair in the corner of a hospital room. She watches as a nurse quietly adjusts her grandfather’s oxygen tube and smooths the blanket at his side. A physician kneels to explain the next steps to her worried parents, his voice calm and measured. A nurse offers a reassuring hand and a few words of comfort that seem to ease the moment. From her seat, Meredith Flamm sees how small gestures of compassion can bring strength and calm into a room heavy with uncertainty.
This was her realization: she wanted to help others like the healthcare providers who helped her grandfather.
Hands-on experience in the emergency department
After earning a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences with minors in chemistry and psychology from Mississippi State University, Flamm worked in the emergency department at SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale. There, she honed critical skills as a patient care tech, drawing blood, monitoring vitals and assisting during trauma, stroke and cardiac emergencies.
“Working in the ER taught me how to stay calm and focused in high-pressure situations,” Flamm said. “It also reinforced why I wanted to be directly involved in patient care.”
Eager to continue her education after the ER, Flamm entered SIU’s Biomedical Sciences (BMS) non-thesis master’s program. The program provides rigorous coursework in anatomy, physiology and biochemistry, along with guidance for applications to medical and PA programs. Two weeks prior to beginning the BMS program, she was accepted into the PA program at SIU School of Medicine.
“The BMS program was the perfect bridge,” she said. “It gave me the academic foundation I needed while also providing mentorship and support for the next step in my career.”
She also spent a summer semester gaining research experience in Dr. Joseph Cheatwood’s lab, studying neuroanatomical changes following central nervous system injuries. She learned microscopy techniques, cryostat cutting and immunohistochemistry. Her time in the lab showed her that while she enjoyed research, what she valued most was applying scientific knowledge directly to patients’ needs.
Entering the physician assistant program
Following her BMS degree, Flamm entered the SIU Physician Assistant (PA) Program after careful consideration regarding her future. She wanted to fulfill her desire to directly help patients, while also seeking a career that was versatile and provided a good work-life balance. Now in her second year of the PA Program, she’s immersed in problem-based learning and clinical rotations. Students complete nine clinical rotations through various specialties, eight are requirements and one is elective. Flamm has chosen cardiology as her elective.
“The PA program pushes you to think critically and make decisions confidently,” she said. “It’s challenging, but I feel well-prepared because of the BMS foundation and the mentorship I’ve received.”
Flamm also stays active in her community, participating in food and supply drives, blood drives and outreach at local farmers' markets. For her, these efforts complement her professional training.
“I’ve seen firsthand how access to skilled, compassionate care can change lives,” she said. “Being able to provide that in southern Illinois is incredibly rewarding.”
Meredith Flamm’s journey has gone from rural roots to research and rigorous academics to hands-on patient care. Her path reflects the opportunities SIU School of Medicine offers to students who are committed to growing as health professionals while serving their communities.
