Casey Carney, OMS III at A.T. Still University-SOMA, Awarded $2,500 TOMF Founders' Scholarship
June 6, 2016
Casey Carney, OMS III at A.T. Still University-SOMA, hails from Scottsdale, Arizona and has “wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember.” As an aspiring OB/GYN, Casey wants to provide healthcare to under-served women in rural areas. On a larger scale, she would “like to work internationally to try to combat female genital mutilation.” With such a strong focus for her future, she was also surprised to discover that she enjoys “debriding (cutting/cleaning out) diabetic foot ulcers.” The future looks bright for Casey, who notes that “if you love what you do, you won’t feel like you’re working.” Even if that means cleaning out diabetic foot ulcers.
1. What is your hometown?
Scottsdale, Arizona.
2. What caused you to choose medicine as a career?
I've wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember. I love learning about the human body; I think it's fascinating. I am excited to be in a career where I can put my knowledge to use and interact with patients to help them lead healthier lives.
3. Which specialty do you plan to practice?
OB/GYN.
4. What does your typical school day look like?
Right now, as a third year medical student, I am mostly working in the clinic or hospital everyday. Depending on the rotation, I usually show up around 7:30, see patients with my attending until lunch time, take a quick lunch break and then continue seeing patients in the afternoon. I usually get done around 5:30 or 6, head to the gym, then head home for dinner and to study.
5. What qualities do you look for in a mentor or role model?
Someone that is approachable and easy to talk to. Someone that is knowledgeable about the subject matter they are mentoring me in. Someone I trust, and someone I get along with well.
6. As a mentor and role model yourself, what advice would you give to a student considering medicine as a career?
Make sure you go into medicine for the right reasons and it's a field you love. If you love what you do, you won't feel like you're working. If you don't love what you do, getting through medical school, residency, and a career in medicine will be nearly impossible.
7. What is the most interesting thing you've discovered so far in your medical training?
I was really surprised to discover that I really enjoying debriding (cutting/cleaning out) diabetic foot ulcers.
8. What are you most excited about doing after you become a physician?
I would like to provide healthcare to under served women in rural areas. Additionally, I would like to work internationally to try to combat female genital mutilation.