Aaron Lacy
Hometown: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Residency Match: Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Specialty: Emergency medicine
Q: How did you choose your specialty?
A: I was initially drawn to emergency medicine because of high-impact procedures and decision-making during crisis situations. However, what I truly fell in love with was serving patients in the emergency department at a critical point in their lives. They are unsure of what will happen to them and they put their trust in a complete stranger. The impact a physician can have in these moments is critical. The kindness, compassion, support, and advocacy provided during these visits can change lives.
Q: What experiences outside the curriculum greatly enhanced your medical education?
A: Working with Shelter House in Iowa City has been phenomenal. I was able to learn and connect with a vulnerable population that is, unfortunately, overrepresented in medicine. I carry a much better appreciation for the trials and tribulations of this population when I encounter them in a health care environment.
Q: Is there someone who was especially helpful in guiding and mentoring you?
A: I have been blessed with hundreds of fellow students, residents, and faculty who, at different points, have helped me progress in both my personal life and medical career. I am particularly thankful for Dr. Peter Densen, who has been supportive of me the entire way, even when I was unsure if I could make it.
Q: What was the most rewarding part of your CCOM experience?
A: Match Day. Not only was it an accumulation of all of my work to date, but I could witness my colleagues’ successes as well.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming medical students?
A: Be kind. Medical school is a roller coaster. A lot will change in your life, and often you won’t have control over what is happening around you. Despite all the turmoil in your life, don’t forget that, for your patient, this can be a pivotal moment in their life. Be kind, because they deserve nothing less.
Additional thoughts:
The extra elective time provided by the new curriculum had an immense impact on my education. I did a global health trip to the Himalayas, a toxicology rotation at the state poison control center, and was able to participate in aerospace medicine research at the NASA Johnson Space Center.