Hometown: Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Undergraduate Institution: Loyola University Chicago
Undergraduate Major: History
Hunter Hayes has always wanted to help his community and the make the world around him happier and healthier. Becoming a physician felt like a calling for him since he was a kid. He believes the Carver College of Medicine will be the perfect place for him to pursue that dream.
Get to know Hunter and what he is looking forward to over the next four years.
Why do you want to be a physician?
I cannot imagine myself as anything else. Being a physician is a calling I have felt since I was a kid. Back then I wanted to be like my parents, helping the community and making people healthier and happier. Now, I know that becoming a physician will best challenge me and utilize my abilities as I serve others. This field will allow me to continually learn, grow, and improve as I continue to help those in need.
Why did you decide to come to the Carver College of Medicine?
The community and culture of Iowa in general, but especially Carver College of Medicine, is so nice and welcoming. The kindness, hospitality, and passion I experienced while applying to Carver convinced me that this is a place where I would be both challenged and supported in my journey to become a physician. Not only is Carver a wonderful school, it’s filled with wonderful people.
What are you looking forward to most about medical school?
I’ve been wanting to participate in a cadaver dissection since I was a kid. The human body’s structure is fascinating, and this process is an amazing way to learn. It’s an incredibly humbling gift from the donors to provide us with this opportunity.
What advice would you give to those currently applying to medical school?
Be patient and be kind, both with yourself and others. It takes a lot of work to get to the point of applying to medical school, so remember to take stock of all you’ve achieved. Be thankful for all your past work, all the people who have aided you, and for the experiences you’ve had along the way. Even though it can feel like an eternity waiting to hear back from schools, trust the process. Everything will fall into place eventually. Try to enjoy the present instead of fixating on the future.
Top reason you chose Iowa for medical school?
As a person born and raised in Iowa, it feels right to come home and find a way to give back to the community. I know that the University of Iowa will give me the tools and opportunities to become a physician capable of providing great services to my fellow Iowans.
What are some of your personal interests?
I enjoy playing/watching sports, cooking, biking, reading, and videogames.