Michelle Coleman
“The networking opportunities here at WVU, specifically in the School of Medicine, makes all the difference. Reach out to those who do the work you are interested in, show your enthusiasm and initiative and network as much as you can.”
What did you study for your undergraduate degree? Was it here at WVU?
I am earning my undergraduate degree here at WVU in Exercise Physiology with an emphasis in Health Professions and Psychology.
What made you interested in the program you chose?
Having a program that teaches how humans function, normally and in diseased states, as well as how exercise can benefit the lives of patients is amazing. Because I’m going into a future in medicine, I knew this would be the best fit and preparation for me.
Why did you choose WVU?
When I came here and discovered the school pride everyone has and all the opportunities of a large university, along with the small-town feel, I knew this was the place for me.
Were you involved in any student organizations or extra-curricular activities while at WVU and the School of Medicine? If so, what were those experiences like?
I have been involved with the Mountaineer Maniacs, the Exercise Physiology Club, tutoring with the Exercise Physiology department and assorted volunteer and research opportunities. Tutoring and research have allowed me to give back to people in a way that means something; being kind and doing right by others give me purpose.
Do you have a favorite memory from WVU and the School of Medicine?
Working on clinical trial research studies at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute as an undergraduate student. Being a small part of a potential change has been something I have been blessed with here. I only was able to get to this point because of my experiences at WVU.
What are your career goals? What are next steps for you professionally?
I will be continuing here in the fall at the School of Medicine to earn my medical degree. I hope this leads me to a career in potentially neurology or psychiatry.
Why do you want to pursue this career?
In high school, through a certified nurse assisting program, I got to work with residents in a long-term care facility and have always loved taking care of people. I have gotten to learn about how our brain and body affect us and nothing interests me more than applying this to the health and wellbeing of others.
Have you had any particular professors or faculty members who have made an impact on you while at WVU? If so, how?
Dr. James Lewis for the amazing experience in Neuroscience research.
Dr. Miriam Leary for the enthusiastic volunteering experiences in the tutoring program.
Have you received any particular honors or awards during your time in the School of Medicine?
This summer I was selected to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience and won the poster contest for the Health Sciences category.
What would you tell prospective students about WVU and the School of Medicine?
The networking opportunities here at WVU, specifically in the School of Medicine, makes all the difference. Reach out to those who do the work you are interested in, show your enthusiasm and initiative and network as much as you can.
How would you define the School of Medicine in one word? Why?
Community. The multidisciplinary approach to medical care here allows for a compassionate community that does right by its patients and students.
Share something unique or interesting about you that others may not know?
I speak German!