Morgan Swanstrom
- Middleton, Wis.
- B.S. in kinesiology with a minor in chemistry
- What's next: Enrolled beginning fall 2007 at the University of Wisconsin Medical School
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UW-Eau Claire photo by Rick Mickelson |
Morgan Swanstrom didn't take the traditional route to gaining entrance to medical school. In fact, she declared English as her major when she arrived at UW-Eau Claire. But halfway through her sophomore year, after taking a science class to fulfill a general education requirement, she made the decision to switch to the sciences and later declared a kinesiology major. Following a year of chemistry, biology, physics and kinesiology classes, she knew that a career in medicine was how she wanted to apply her interest in science.
Swanstrom, who started UW-Eau Claire's Women's Lacrosse Club when she arrived at the university in 2002, said her approach to her education has been to maintain a balance between school and the rest of her life.
"I think that when you're enjoying what you're doing, whether it be enjoying what you are studying or enjoying playing a sport, spending a lot of time and effort on it is easy," she said. "You definitely have to study a good amount to get into medical school, but I actually liked most of the subject matter and liked doing well in the classes, which is pretty important when you consider that being a physician requires one to keep educated throughout life."
Swanstrom will graduate with honors after earning a 3.9 grade-point average while amassing an impressive list of additional achievements: serving as president, treasurer, captain and coach of the lacrosse club team; helping to organize the Upper Midwest Women's Lacrosse League; volunteering for the Chippewa Valley Free Clinic and Sacred Heart Hospital; working as volunteer head of the health sector of the Eau Claire Promise Program, a non-profit organization to help children in Eau Claire; and completing an internship with UW Sports Medicine.
Her "maintaining balance" approach has worked well, judging by Swanstrom's reflections on her time at UW-Eau Claire:
"I found a great group of friends, grew up and found out what I want to do for the rest of my life. I can honestly say it was a great experience all around."
More on Morgan Swanstrom
Future plans: I will be attending the University of Wisconsin Medical School in the fall of this year. My long-terms plans are to specialize in orthopedic surgery with an emphasis in pediatric orthopedics and work in an academic medicine setting.
What she liked most about her time at UW-Eau Claire: Being able to get close to professors was something I really liked about UW-Eau Claire. It gives you a good look into what options you have with your education when you can establish relationships with professors and let them help you through your college experience. I was also impressed with all of the opportunities available to students, from sports to leadership, which positively shaped my experience here as well.
Highlights of life at UW-Eau Claire: Because I started the UW-Eau Claire women's lacrosse team my freshman year, every game we win is a pretty big highlight for me. Being selected for league all-star teams my freshman, sophomore and junior years was also an accomplishment. I would say the most amazing experience, though, was being able to assist in the OR my junior year. I was able to actually assist on surgeries instead of just watch, and it was incredible. I remember the doctor telling me that everyone has the moment when they realize that it is OK to cut inside another human body, and I got to experience it that day. I think I was floating on cloud nine for about a week after that.
Proudest college accomplishments: The most important culmination of my education here at UW-Eau Claire would definitely be getting excepted to a top medical school. Throughout the years as a pre-med student, applying to medical school is always a thought lingering in the back of your head. Finally knowing that I achieved that goal was my proudest accomplishment here. Another important accomplishment was getting an internship with UW-Sports Medicine last year, where I was able to work in rehab and testing with various Badger athletes and assist with a major pediatric research study, with which I was accepted to stay on until it finishes in the coming years.
Advice for incoming students: Find the right balance between academics and activities outside of school. It's really easy to get caught up in school and chasing A's, but in the end, you have to enjoy life to make it all worth it.
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