For Jaden Hacking, the path toward becoming a podiatric physician began with a life-changing injury.
A native of Perry, Ohio, Hacking was a track athlete during his first year at Ohio Wesleyan University when he suffered a foot injury that ultimately required surgery and ended his running career. While the experience brought his athletic career to an unexpected close, it also introduced him to the profession that would shape his future.
As Hacking navigated his own recovery, he began learning more about podiatric medicine—and discovered a connection to Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine (KSUCPM) through his own podiatrist, a KSUCPM graduate.
That connection ultimately led Hacking to transfer to Kent State University, where he is pursuing a degree in exercise science with a concentration in pre-podiatry. Along the way, he has had opportunities to connect with KSUCPM faculty, students and leadership while gaining a firsthand look at the College and the profession he hopes to join.
His personal experience as a patient continues to influence how he views his future career.
“Knowing that people live like that on a day-to-day basis and I’m able to relieve the pain—to be someone who can give their foundation and life back—and knowing that I could be that person for them makes me excited,” Hacking said.
Hacking has developed an interest in several areas of podiatric medicine, including surgery, sports medicine and diabetic foot care. Looking ahead, he hopes to work in a hospital setting and is particularly interested in caring for patients with diabetes, including those experiencing foot ulcers and neuropathy.
He plans to join the KSUCPM Class of 2027 after earning his Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science.
For KSUCPM alumni, Hacking’s story is a reminder of the many ways podiatric physicians make an impact—sometimes beginning with a patient’s own experience in the exam room. What began as a career-ending injury ultimately gave one future physician a new direction and a deeper appreciation for the role podiatric medicine can play in restoring mobility and improving lives.
Help Us Inspire the Next Generation
Jaden’s story also highlights the important role KSUCPM alumni can play in shaping the future of the profession. His connection to podiatric medicine began with the care he received from a KSUCPM graduate—and that personal connection helped open the door to his own future in the field.
There are students like Jaden across the country who may be searching for a career where they can make a meaningful difference in their patients’ lives. Our alumni are among the best ambassadors for showing them what that future can look like.
Whether it’s sharing your KSUCPM experience with a student, speaking with someone considering a career in health care, mentoring a prospective student or simply telling your own story, your voice can make a difference.
Help us introduce the next generation of podiatric professionals to the possibilities of this profession—and to the KSUCPM community that has helped generations of physicians build meaningful careers.
