Class of 2020 Grad Looks Forward to Beginning Medical School in the Fall

As a student at the University of New Haven, David Patrick '20 enjoyed sharing his passion for public health with the campus community. A founding member of the University's Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter, he served as the chapter’s president, educating students about public health issues such as opioid and e-cigarette use.

"This is an important organization to have on campus because it allows us to form relationships with other students who have similar interests," said Patrick, who also served as vice president of post-secondary and alumni affairs for the state’s HOSA chapter. "It also allows us to connect with students and professionals within the healthcare community."

A health sciences and biology double major, Patrick will take the next step toward his goal of becoming a healthcare professional when he begins his studies this fall at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. Interested in emergency room medicine and orthopedic surgery, he is open to learning as much as he can about different areas of medicine before deciding on his career path.

"I have had endless support from my teachers and advisers, and I am confident I have the tools I need for my future success."David Patrick '20

"I wouldn't have been able to get this far without my professors, and I am especially grateful for Professor Ashish Upadhyaya’s support," he said. "We spent countless hours together going through my medical school application, revising essays together, and conducting mock interviews. He has been a huge support throughout the entire process."

"David has earned the distinction of becoming the first student with the University's new pre-medical studies designation to not only gain admission into medical school, but to earn selection into his top-choice program," added Prof. Upadhyaya. "He is a first-generation college student, and we wish him the best in all of his future endeavors."

Patrick was active in the University community throughout his time as a Charger, serving as sergeant at arms for the Emergency Medical Services Club, vice president and safety officer for the men's lacrosse club team, and a student ambassador for the School of Health Sciences.

As an intern at the Yale School of Medicine, Patrick immersed himself in research, exploring techniques and learning how to design and conduct experiments. He was part of a team that conducted ovarian cancer research, and they discovered a potential precursor that could lead to the development of the disease.

Patrick credits lecturer Ines Reardon, M.S., with helping him earn a position as a medical scribe in the emergency department of Saint Mary's Hospital in Waterbury, Conn. His work enabled him to network with physicians, who have now become mentors. He learned important medical terminology and got a closer look at the day-to-day work of the physicians – something that, he says, played an important role in his own decision to become one.

Patrick says he is especially grateful for the support of his professors at the University of New Haven, who helped him gain the experience and skills he needed.

"My classes have been in-depth, interactive, and fun," he said. "Most of my classes had fewer than 25 students, allowing me to form close relationships with my professors. I have had endless support from my teachers and advisers, and I am confident I have the tools I need for my future success."