Marco Rovira

Hometown - San Diego, California

Undergraduate Institution - San Diego State University - Go Aztecs!!

Class of 2024

Why did you pursue podiatric medicine?

Having grown up in a clinical household, I was exposed to healthcare early on. I can recall being mesmerized at the sight of my grandmother and mother donning the white coat every day treating patients to make them feel better. Naturally, I followed their footsteps but rather than becoming a dentist, I gravitated towards podiatry because this type of medical specialty allows me to care for the whole entire body while focusing on the lower extremity.

Why did you choose Kent State?

I knew Kent State was the place to go for podiatric medical school as soon as I walked in through the Atrium of the College on my interview day. I was greeted with friendly, courteous, and supportive vibe from the faculty and students that immediately took my nervousness away. At that moment I knew this is where I belong and here I am!

Favorite aspect of Kent State now that you are a student here?

I like the way Kent State is a very supportive environment where students and faculty want the best for you by helping you as much as possible whether be weekly tutoring sessions set up by upperclassmen or numerous opportunities the school provides to keep your stresses on the low during midterm week.

What advice do you have for anyone considering podiatry school?

Definitely explore the profession of medicine by shadowing various types of physicians and their respective specialties.

How do you strike a balance between class work, studying, and social activities?

I think managing your time is a key to success for juggling work, studying, and social activities. As for me personally, I operate around my google calendar app. I upload everything on there from semester course schedule to when I have space to run errands or hangout with friends. It works very well because it is connected to multiple devices so I can see what I have going on while I am out and about. The reminder notifications have saved my life often, so I highly recommend it.

Any suggestions for prospective students on building/ maintaining a balance?

Using a planner or calendar is super helpful because I found scheduling is important in medical school as well as life in general. As a full-time student, prioritizing education is a must but don’t forget to take some time off to enjoy your past time whether be hiking or watching Netflix because wellness is important too.

What one word describes you best?

Compassionate

What are some activities you are involved in at KSUCPM?

I am a student member of American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and actively serve as a Student Ambassador for the College.

As a first-year student, what are some of the challenges you faced (if any) while transitioning into medical school?

The big transition for me was acclimating to the day long lectures followed by studying daily. The style of learning and studying is very different from undergrad, so it’ll take some time to adjust but it’s very do-able!

What one word describes KSUCPM?

Diversity

What advice would you offer to any prospective students wishing to attend KSUCPM who are in the current application process?

Each individual podiatric medical school have their own unique qualities so look for the one that matches you as a student as well as a person. Be sure to explore if the surrounding area is the best fit to your liking because you’ll spend majority of your 4 years there! 

Most challenging course and why?

I’d say majority of courses in your first year is difficult because essentially it is all hard science courses. With that being said, Gross Anatomy is the most difficult for me personally due to the sheer amount of new information you have to learn on top of juggling other heavy courses such as Cell & Tissue, Medical Genetics, and Staying Alive. But at the end of the day, it is rewarding to see how much you have learned and will rekindle your passion of why you decided to pursue a career in medicine.

Favorites

Movie - Rogue One

Song - Hymn For The Weekend - Coldplay

Starbucks Drink - Matcha Green Tea Crème Frappuccino

Book - Mountains Beyond Mountains – Tracy Kidder

Season - Summer

Cleveland Activity - Watching the Sunset at Solstice Steps

Restaurant - Bomba Taco + Bar

Science course - Gross Anatomy