Meet Jacklyn Engelbart
Jacklyn Engelbart
Hometown: Anamosa, Iowa
Residency Match: UI Hospitals and Clinics
Specialty: General Surgery
Q: How did you choose your specialty?
A: I have a strong interest in the anatomy, procedures, cardiovascular system, trauma, and medical devices related to this. Surgery has a great mix of operating, inpatient care, and definitive management for a variety of patients, from the relatively healthy needing elective operations to the critically ill.
Q: What experiences outside the curriculum greatly enhanced your medical education?
A: The Teaching Distinction Track gave me opportunities to develop skills for medical education, and the Department of Surgery provided excellent opportunities for research. Both of these experiences pushed my career path toward academic medicine. Through the Boulware Learning Community, I had opportunities for volunteer service with the Mobile Clinic and Carver College of Medicine outreach programs in the Iowa City community.
Q: Is there someone who was especially helpful in guiding and mentoring you?
A: Drs. Jessica Maxwell and Samantha Alsop were outstanding resident/fellow mentors and role models for me throughout my clerkship experiences. Dr. CJ Pierce mentored me through my advanced experiences in internal medicine and created a great foundation for my future care of all patients, for which I am incredibly grateful. Countless attending physicians shared their passion for academic medicine and encouraged involvement, including Drs. Sharp, Suneja, Harris, and Rahhal, as well as Jane Rowat, Jeff Emrich, and Kris Dawkins. Drs. Skeete and Garcia provided me with research and academic opportunities within the Department of Surgery.
Dr. Peter Densen always ensured I kept balance in my life and stayed committed to my non-medical passion—fitness and basketball—by inviting me to join an early morning group of medical, dental, academic, and research professionals and students. And Katie Iverson, PA-C, provided a great sense of community within CCOM and shared her passion for service in the Iowa City community.
Q: What was the most rewarding part of your CCOM experience?
A: The patients, the people, the new friends, and the foundation for a rewarding career in medicine.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming medical students?
A: Always be grateful for the privilege of families welcoming you into their lives and trusting you on the most difficult days. It is the ultimate honor as a physician. Enjoy the adventure you are about to begin!