Matthew Lokant
“It’s been a great eye-opening experience to see such a diverse patient population and I knew that this was the place for me where I could continue to learn how to practice high quality, evidenced based medicine in a place that is intellectually and emotionally stimulating.”
Why did you choose WVU?
Honestly, it has been an amazing experience and I’ve loved my time at the University. We have top notch physicians and educators. It’s been a great eye-opening experience to see such a diverse patient population and I knew that this was the place for me where I could continue to learn how to practice high-quality, evidence-based medicine in a place that is intellectually and emotionally stimulating.
What made you interested in medicine?
Growing up, I loved science and I loved talking to people, so after shadowing a lot of professionals in various fields, I decided healthcare was what I was meant to do.
What drew you to internal medicine?
I love diagnosing patients. I really like getting a history, looking at a physical exam and laboratory markers, looking at the whole picture and then finding out what is going on with the patient and what I can do to help them. Internal medicine offers the opportunity to build that case history and plan for success for a patient.
What are some strengths of the residency program at WVU?
The mentorship we have at WVU is wonderful. We have great leaders who know evidence-based medicine and who are there for us and help whenever it’s necessary. The training and opportunities to interact with all the different fellowships are great, and the patient population here is just reflective of all these different strategies we use.
Can you tell us about the technology used at the School of Medicine?
We have the STEPS Center lab here which has all different kinds of technological advancements. They have a lot of top-notch instruments that we can use, and we have a great ultrasound curriculum.
What’s after residency for you?
I am planning on an Infectious Diseases fellowship at Vanderbilt University next year. I believe our residency program greatly prepared me for this pursuit. I completed multiple research endeavors, had electives composed towards my career aspirations and was able to participate in our wonderful global health track!
What would you tell people who are thinking about coming to WVU for residency?
Definitely come here if you’re looking for a group of people who are really interested in science and medicine and who are really willing to help you throughout your path.
How has your expectations of residency met the reality of it?
It’s pretty much lived up to its expectations. There was a lot of differences between being a medical student and now being a doctor and it happens overnight, but I had so much support throughout that whole transition period that I’m feeling a lot more confident now.
Is there anything you have learned about medicine or yourself throughout this process that you were surprised by?
I was surprised I like infectious disease as much as I do, I didn’t even know what that was before going to med school! I was surprised at how much I enjoy talking to patients every single day. It’s honestly what keeps me going.
What would you tell someone from out-of-state about Morgantown?
I love Morgantown, it honestly feels like my second home now. I feel like there is always something happening. A few weeks ago, there was Wine and Jazz which was super fun and then they had Hops on the Mon right after. There is a great running and mountain biking scene, and we pretty much have any outdoor activity here.
What is Morgantown’s best kept secret?
The people.
Can you describe the School of Medicine in one word?
Nurturing.
What is one residency life hack that you can share?
Having a support system.