As 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 Max Dawson of Canfield, Ohio. Max received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Youngstown State University.
What compelled you to pursue a degree in health care?
My primary care physician originally got me interested in medicine because it seemed like he was always able to heal patients, almost like a magician.
Why did you choose NEOMED?
I chose this institution because of the patient-centered curriculum and their connections to hospitals that I would love to work at after graduation.
What specific career do you hope to pursue? Or where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I am not exactly sure which specialty yet. I’m leaning toward orthopedic surgery because I would love to be a team doctor.
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was younger, I wanted to be a college football coach.
What is your favorite thing to eat and why?
My favorite food is any fresh fruit. That’s my go-to snack every day.
What book or movie are you currently recommending to friends? Why?
I’ll always recommend Harry Potter to anyone who asks.
You are handed a plane ticket to anywhere in the world. Where are you going? Why?
I’ve always wanted to go to Germany during Oktoberfest because I took four years of German in high school.
If time and resources were no object, what skill or hobby would you pursue? Why?
The skill I wish I had is a half-decent jump shot. However, no matter how much basketball I play I still can’t shoot.
What’s your hype song? Why?
I’ll listen to any type of music. It doesn’t matter which genre. Just as long as it’s a good song.