Morgan Eso

Hometown: Santa Rosa, CA

Undergraduate Institution: Indiana University - Bloomington

Class of 2025

Why did you pursue podiatric medicine?
Podiatric Medicine gave me the opportunity to combine all my passions within medicine into one, while also giving me the work-life balance that I want as a future physician. I love sports medicine and emergency medicine which are both subspecialties of podiatric medicine. 

Why did you choose KSUCPM?
KSUCPM felt like a community. I wanted a program where the environment was positive, supportive, and collaborative. I felt this immediately when I was a perspective student during my interview day and met many different KSUCPM students before my actual interview. The students at KSUCPM make a place that is far from home feel like home, which is extremely important when navigating through medical school. 

What is your favorite aspect of Kent State now that you are a student here?
My favorite part of KSUCPM now that I am officially a student is how many academic resources we have available to us as students. The most useful resource for me is all the tutoring opportunities that we have. One aspect that I love about KSUCPM is that tutoring is not just for those who are struggling in courses, it’s a way to interact with older students and test your knowledge of material at any point of your study process. 

What advice do you have for anyone considering podiatry school?
My advice to someone considering podiatry school would be to do your own research about the profession. Additionally, the best way to find out if it is truly the best fit for you is to jump right in and shadow a podiatrist. My shadowing experience is what solidified my decision to attend podiatric medical school and was the best way to learn about the field of podiatry. 

Have you begun to prepare Boards yet?  If so, what are you doing in terms of preparation?
As a first-year student I have not started critically studying for Boards yet; however, we do have access to a lot of the Boards prep material such as Boards & Beyond and Sketchy. Although these are considered Boards prep materials, I have found them useful in aiding my studying for current classes. This has also helped me to understand what kinds of concepts are high yield for Boards. 

How do you strike a balance between class work, studying, and social activities?
As a podiatric medical student balance is key. As you go through the first semester you learn what works best for you and its different for everyone. For me, my studies are my first priority; however, I do schedule out time for myself like going to the gym, exploring new restaurants with friends, or taking a weekend trip after exam rounds. The first step in finding a balance is figuring out your study schedule. 

What one word describes you best?
 Resilient. I have had to overcome many different obstacles throughout my academic journey including a learning disability. With dedication and hard work, I was able to achieve my goals of attending and succeeding in medical school. 

What are some activities you are involved in at KSUCPM?
ACFAS & Volleyball Club

As a first-year student, what are some of the challenges you faced while transitioning into medical school?
One of the biggest challenges that I faced when transitioning into medical school was figuring out my new study routine. Eventually I figured out the methods that worked best for me through trial and error. I attended the Pre-Matriculation Program which helped me meet fellow classmates and faculty. I felt that this experience eased the transition for me. 

What one word describes KSUCPM?
Community. I have friends in all the years at KSUCPM. Everyone is willing to help and support each other through our mutual journeys here. 

What advice would you offer to any prospective students wishing to attend KSUCPM who are in the current application process?
My biggest advice is stay true to yourself and what you want out of your medical school experience. Meeting current students and going on a campus tour is a great way to find out where you feel the most at home. 

Most challenging course and why? 
Gross Anatomy is one of the more challenging courses because it is very time consuming and a lot of information. There are ways to make anatomy easier like the many different tutoring options, open lab times, and the bone room. 

Favorites
Movie: The Blind Side
Song: Payphone by Maroon 5
Starbucks Drink: White Chocolate Mocha
Book: The Great Gatsby 
Season: Fall
Cleveland Activity:Going to the Solstice Steps in Lakewood, OH
KSUCPM Class: Gross Anatomy 
TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy 
Restaurant: In N Out