Meet Max Dawson

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.