Matthew Hudson
“I wanted to maximize my college experience— academically, financially, and socially. WVU allows me to gain an excellent undergraduate education in a major offered by fewer than ten schools in the country.”
What do you eventually want to do career-wise?
I want to be a physician, either a surgeon or dermatologist.
Why do you want to pursue this career?
Since elementary school, I knew I wanted to play an integral role in a healthcare setting. I was able to observe surgeries over the summer during middle school, which further interested me in pursuing a career as a surgeon. I also have had numerous encounters with my own dermatologist that have sparked an interest into the field of dermatology and running a private practice.
Why did you choose this major?
I wanted a more in-depth, less traditional preparatory route for medical school that would also allow me to form great relationships to my fellow peers and faculty members.
Why did you choose WVU?
I wanted to maximize my college experience— academically, financially, and socially. WVU allows me to gain an excellent undergraduate education in a major offered by fewer than ten schools in the country. At the same time, I can do so in a fiscally responsible manner, allowing me to minimize debt incurred when combined with the future cost of attending medical school. Furthermore, the social environment provides a network of extracurricular activities and relationships that foster personal and educational growth along the way.
What would you tell prospective students about your experience at WVU and the School of Medicine?
My experience at WVU and the School of Medicine has been nothing short of amazing. I have enjoyed smaller class sizes and more applicable, hands-on classes.
Have you had any particular professors or faculty members who have made an impact on you while at WVU? If so, how?
Dr. Meenal Elliot and Ms. Valerie Watson (Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology) supported me throughout my first-year IMMB colloquium, encouraging me throughout the beginning of my microbiology education. Additionally, Dr. Stephanie Young (Biology) has significantly improved both my confidence and interest in biology as a whole.
Have you participated in any clubs, student organizations or other groups in the School of Medicine? If so, do you have any special experiences to share?
In the School of Medicine, I am a member of the American Society of Microbiology. I have met other freshmen IMMB students, as well as upperclassmen. Outside of the School of Medicine: Pre-Medical Club, MountaineerTHON (Executive Board), Global Medical Brigades, and Young Life.
Have you received any particular honors or awards during your time in the School of Medicine?
Nothing directly from the School of Medicine, but I was on President’s List.
Share something unique or interesting about you that others may not know?
I am a lifeguard in the summer at a local pool. I enjoy traveling and learned to surf in Hawaii.
Is there anything else that you feel would be pertinent for your profile? Anything you think prospective students would want to know?
Growing up, I never once envisioned I would attend in in-state college. I was determined to go out-of-state and was deceived by the common, unsupported, negative perception around our school systems. However, once I did my research, the only real advantage was location; the major disadvantage: an enormous amount of debt. Do not think that attending WVU means you are “settling.” After touring Stanford University, my childhood dream school, I decided that WVU was where I was meant to be—and I have never looked back.