Mark Murphy, OMS III at Midwestern University-AZCOM Awarded $2,500 TOMF Founders' Scholarship
May 27, 2015
Mark Murphy, OMS III, has called Tucson home since age three, went to the University of Arizona to become a civil engineer. "My career path changed after two internships filled with number crunching in isolated cubicles," he said, "The human interaction, trust, communication and the ability to diagnose and treat both personal and health related issues made medical school and easy decision." Murphy plans to stay in Arizona, possibly practicing emergency medicine or anesthesiology. We asked Mark a few questions about his path to medicine, daily life as a medical student and his future endeavors as an osteopathic physician. Read on to find out more.1. What is your hometown?
Tucson, AZ
2. What caused you to choose medicine as a career?
There was an interpersonal disconnect with my previous career choice, engineering. I believe that there are few things that strike people on a personal level as much as their health or the health of their family and friends. I look forward to playing a vital role in others lives.
3. Which specialty do you plan to practice?
I am debating between EM and Anesthesia.
4. What does your typical school day look like?
I am on 3rd year rotations; these can vary greatly. Currently, I am on OBGYN. Early mornings either in the OR for hysterectomies or in a busy clinic monitoring pregnancies and gynecological issues. Sometimes leaving clinic in a flash to help assist vaginal deliveries. It's a great balance between surgery and clinic. Truly humbled by the profession.
5. What qualities do you look for in a mentor or role model?
Great balance in family and career. Efficiency in work while maintaining great bedside manner.
6. As a mentor and role model yourself, what advice would you give to a student considering medicine as a career?
Medicine is a rewarding but huge commitment of time and energy. Setting your priorities and organization of your time is crucial for success. There are so many disciplines and specialties, medicine can suit any personality. Its important to have the support of your family and friends when the going gets tough.
7. What is the most interesting thing you've discovered so far in your medical training?
Hard to pinpoint that, there are many. Since I am currently on OBGYN, I am amazed on the fluctuation and transformation pregnant women undergo. It's hard to believe that the often small uterus removed during a hysterectomy once held a baby.
8. What are you most excited about doing after you become a physician?
Working independently and implementing all my training into practice. Waking up in the morning and meeting, greeting, teaching, and healing new faces each day.