Future Navy physicians graduate officer training

Three College of Medicine students -- ENS Brian Fogarty (M2), ENS Abbey Henderson (M3) and ENS Alexa Mier (M3)-- recently celebrated their graduation from Navy Officer Development School at Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island, after five weeks of training. Their training is part of the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), made available by the U.S. Military. Second-year student Brian Fogarty shared his experience with the Pulse:

My experience during the five weeks at Navy Officer Development School as part of my Health Professions Scholarship Program was both transformative and eye-opening. From the early morning PT [physical training] sessions, enduring the sandpits, mastering the art of bed-making and maintaining a spotless room, to fighting fires and controlling a ship flooding in chest-high water, Officer Development School was intense yet immensely rewarding. The rigorous attention to detail and effective communication required throughout these tasks resonated deeply with me, as I know that this same level of precision, focus and teamwork are equally essential for successfully completing medical school and becoming a physician.

Taking the Oath of Office and receiving the HPSP scholarship have been invaluable in allowing me to pursue my aspirations of serving our nation while being fully engaged in my medical education without the added stress of financial burdens. This peace of mind allows me to concentrate solely on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to provide the best care to our troops and their families as a future naval physician.

Brian Fogarty
Class of 2027 Ensign, United States Navy