Before the NEOMED Class of 2026 starts their journey, we wanted to learn more about students from this group. We invited them to share their stories. Here is one response:
Meet first-year medicine student Jonathan Montes of Chino, California. Jonathan earned a B.S. in psychology with a minor in exercise biology from University of California, Davis and completed the Master of Anatomical Sciences program at NEOMED.
What compelled you to pursue a degree in health care?
Experiencing inequalities of health care firsthand has given me not only perspective, but also initiative, on problems underserved communities continue face.
Why did you choose NEOMED?
NEOMED’s current initiative to support disadvantaged and underrepresented students and the opportunity to experience Ohio for the first time.
What specific career do you hope to pursue? Or where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I am still uncertain of what specialty I will choose in the future. My only prerequisite is doing what I love and building up others in the process.
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was younger, I always wanted to be a firefighter or EMT.
What is your favorite thing to eat and why?
Anything my girlfriend, Giselle, makes. She uses love as her special ingredient.
What book or movie are you currently recommending to friends? Why?
I would instead recommend “The Boys,” a TV series I most recently binged.
You are handed a plan ticket to anywhere in the world. Where are you going? Why?
Puerto Rico because I have yet to visit!
If time and resources were no object, what skill or hobby would you pursue? Why?
I would pursue photography and videography. Being able to express yourself artistically is a must for any person.
What’s your hype song? Why?
“Crossfire” by Stephen always seems to get me going in the gym.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I compete in bodybuilding and hope to continue throughout medical school!