Will Wagner

Hometown: Tiffin, Ohio

Undergraduate Institution: Miami University 

Why did you pursue podiatric medicine?
I have always been interested in medicine and wanted to engage with patients. I shadowed a podiatrist and really fell in love with the field. I really appreciated that this field involved surgery but also allowed for long term patient relationships as well as a good work-life balance. 

Why did you choose KSUCPM?
I visited KSUCPM and did a lot of research before attending. All the ambassadors and admissions representatives I talked to were more than helpful when I was making this decision. I really liked the beautiful campus and was impressed with the multitude of support and resources given to students. I felt that KSUCPM was a community and that it would be the best place to help me achieve my goals. 

What is your favorite aspect of Kent State now that you are a student here?
 have really enjoy getting to know fellow classmate and those who work at KSUCPM. Everyone here is extremely friendly and willing to help. I feel as if everyone here wants everyone else to succeed.  

What advice do you have for anyone considering podiatry school?
Don’t take the decision lightly. I am very happy with where I am at, but podiatry school is not easy, and this is a huge decision. Make sure that you have done as much research as possible, and you know you are making the best decision for you. This is a huge commitment, but it will be worth it at the end.

How do you strike a balance between class work, studying, and social activities?
This is definitely not easy, but I think scheduling out my time is extremely important. I make sure that I have time where I can relax and spend time with family and friends. I take advantage of free time, as well as try to be as effective and efficient as I can when studying. I try to spend all day on campus where I focus on school and spend evenings at home doing light studying or taking some time away from studying to relax.

Any suggestions for prospective students on building/ maintaining a balance?
I think it is important to recognize your priorities and when to prioritize different components of your life. Know that your social and personally life may to be on hold for a week or two when you have exams or a busy time at school, but this also goes the other way around. It is important to maintain your relationship, so when you are not busy or  have a break time make sure to prioritize your health, self-care, and maintaining your personal relationship. Ultimately it is important to focus on both from day to day but being able to recognize you priorities and how to spread them out will really help with balance. 

What one word describes you best? 
Determined

What are some activities you are involved in at KSUCPM?
I am currently doing the student research program. I would like to get more involved on campus, eventually, but I want to get a better feel for the many organizations on campus before I decide what to join.

As a first-year student, what are some of the challenges you faced (if any) while transitioning into medical school?
Managing the workload. There is a lot of information coming at you that you have to know in your first semester. The first round of exams included five exams in a week, and I was not used to that demand. Luckily, I have learned how to manage the work and properly study in order to retain information. 

What one word describes KSUCPM?
Supportive

What advice would you offer to any prospective students wishing to attend KSUCPM who are in the current application process?
Believe in yourself. I know that application can be intimidating but believe in all the amazing work you have done. Know that you are good enough and stay confident. 

Most challenging course and why? 
Staying Alive. This class is very heavy on Biochemistry, which is one of my worst subjects. There is a lot of information and a lot of pathways that you need to know, which are challenging and require a lot of time to learn. 

Favorites
Movie: The Dark Knight
Starbucks Drink: Iced Cold Brew
Book: Hunger Games
Season: Summer
Cleveland Activity: Going out to eat with friends Downtown
KSUCPM Class: Medical Genetics
TV Show: The Office