Sydney Rudy

Hometown - Mound, Minnesota

Undergraduate Institution - Oklahoma State University

Class of 2024

Why did you pursue podiatric medicine?

I pursued podiatric medicine, because from a young age I had a dream to work with foot and ankle injuries. This dream came from a gymnastics injury that resulted in a broken ankle and a chipped metatarsal. Once, I learned about podiatry I knew that this was the route I wanted to take to make my dreams come true! 

Why did you choose Kent State?

I choose Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine because I felt at home. I knew I was looking for a welcoming school that would help support me throughout my four years in medical school. Right away I felt that support at Kent State.

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

My favorite aspect of Kent State is the support and encouragement I receive from my fellow classmates, professors, and support staff. I am greeted every day with a welcoming smile. If I have a question, I can always find someone who is willing to help me solve is. Before our first exam week, we were given advice and encouragements that helped make the nerves dissipate. There are many more aspects that are also amazing, but this is my favorite.

What advice do you have for anyone considering podiatry school?

I would suggest that you close your eyes and imagine yourself on the campus, with the students that you have meet, or in the classes you have been told about. If you can do this then you will find yourself right at home no matter what school, it is. If you cannot imagine yourself on that campus but can somewhere else that is okay! You have to feel at home where you will spend your next four years.

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

I treat school like it is my full time job. This means I spend 8-5 on campus Monday through Friday. And like any full time job, if I have not finished my work then I have to work over time on the week nights or weekends. This way of thinking about school allows me to get my work done during the day and I get to work and socialize with friends on weeknights and weekends as long as I get all of my work done during the days!

What are some activities you are involved in at KSUCPM?

I am involved in the KSUCPM Ambassadors, and I work in the library. I have looked into campus activities, but with Covid-19 it has been difficult to completely join campus activities! As soon as we are able to meet in person I plan to join some more activities!

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

Coming into medical school, I was coming off a gap year. I highly suggest taking part in the pre-matricular program to get yourself ready for medical school! I found this program extremely helpful when coming into school after a break!

What one word describes KSUCPM?

Encouraging

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

Ask questions, there is never a silly question. Think about questions before coming in for your campus visit. One question I never thought to ask was “how is the parking on campus?” Luckily KSUCPM has great parking, but some other campuses might not! Ask questions! We know the answers, and if we don’t I can promise someone will!

Most challenging course and why?

Anatomy, it is not the material that is challenging but the pace of the course and the amount of information per test is a lot to juggle.

Favorites

Movie - Italian Job

Song - She Will Be Loved by Maroon 5

Starbucks Drink - Pink Drink off the secret menu

Book - Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

Season - Fall

Cleveland Activity - The Flats

KSUCPM Class - Anything taught by Tim and Joann

Restaurant - Panera

Science course - Microbiology