Embracing opportunity: Dante Yarbrough
Dante Yarbrough is getting the full experience of a first-year medical student at NEOMED – and it’s been a long time coming.
Yarbrough initially became familiar with NEOMED in 2022 as a participant in the University’s MEDCAMP program (now known as Health Professions Bootcamp). The experience gave him an idea of what life would be like as a medical student, and it only solidified his desire to become a physician.
Attending medical school had been a goal since childhood. Yarbrough’s aunt, Teresa Dews, M.D., is an anesthesiologist at the Cleveland Clinic, and their connection helped him determine his path. Yarbrough drew inspiration from his aunt as a black physician, which signaled to him at an early age that he could pursue a career in medicine.
“My Aunt Teresa was a major influence on me and gave me tremendous insight of a career in healthcare,” Yarbrough said. “She helped with shadowing opportunities so I could get a true sense of what it takes to be a physician. Fortunately, I discovered it was the right fit for me.”
Yarbrough also gained inspiration from the Medical Apartheid, a book that was gifted to him by his aunt.
“It was immensely eye-opening and it helped me realize my calling was to help others and provide much-needed solutions for patients,” he said.
After earning his undergraduate degree at Cleveland State, Yarbrough took the next step in his medical education and enrolled in the Master in Foundations of Medicine program in NEOMED’s College of Graduate Studies. He credits the many hands-on learning opportunities for helping him prepare for his first year of medical school. In May, Yarbrough proudly crossed the stage at NEOMED’s Commencement to receive the diploma for his master’s degree as his family watched from the audience.
Yarbrough also participated in the AHEC Scholars Program at NEOMED prior to enrolling in the College of Medicine. The program included several events at NEOMED, including a 'Day in the Life of a Healthcare Provider' event, patient interviews and discussions on current medical news.
“I already wanted to attend NEOMED because of MEDCAMP. The AHEC Scholars Program only made my interest and excitement grow for coming here,” said Yarbrough.
As he continues his first year as a medical student, Yarbrough feels well-prepared thanks to programs like MEDCAMP and AHEC Scholars. He plans to go into pediatrics, but is also considering primary care.
“I’m so excited to be here,” Yarbrough exclaimed. “This journey has prepared me for this moment.”