"There is always something groundbreaking on the horizon in medicine that will ultimately help patients, and I want to be a part of that."
Name: Dakota Marshall
Program/Year: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2026
Hometown: Payson, AZ
Undergraduate degree (college/university and degree earned): University of Arizona, B.S. in Physiology with a Minor in Human Services
What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?
For me, there wasn’t a lightbulb moment or a physical sign given to me to pursue medicine. I’ve just always had an innate desire to help others, and I thought one of the coolest ways to serve is to be a doctor. As I got older, I became more invested in the thought of medicine because it is a lifelong pursuit of knowledge in an extremely innovative field. There is always something groundbreaking on the horizon in medicine that will ultimately help patients, and I want to be a part of that.
How did your background and history factor into your career choice?
Growing up in a close-knit community in rural Arizona, the idea of pursuing higher education, especially in the medical field, wasn't something commonly seen. Yet, I saw it as a challenge to overcome. It was an opportunity to shatter expectations and pave my own path. Being the first in my family to become a physician adds an extra layer of significance to my journey. For me, it's not just about personal success but about breaking new ground for generations to come.
Why did you decide to attend ³ûÄñÊÓƵ?
I was first introduced to ³ûÄñÊÓƵ at the Downers Grove Campus while working toward a master’s degree in biomedical sciences. I was extremely impressed with the quality of education I was receiving, and I knew I could expect the same quality, or even better, through the osteopathic medicine program. I knew that my career goals in healthcare education and leadership would be cultivated and greatly enhanced at ³ûÄñÊÓƵ.
What about a ³ûÄñÊÓƵ education do you want to carry forward in your career?
Along with providing the best medical care to my patients, I want to inspire the next generation of physicians. ³ûÄñÊÓƵ has given me the opportunity to achieve my aspirations through various means. I want to provide opportunities to others that I didn’t get when I was younger, provide resources and offer mentorship to those who seek it, and help others understand that anything is possible. I've learned firsthand that with determination and a supportive community, even the toughest challenges can be conquered. I'm all about paying that forward.
