By Kaylee Alivo
Ethan Stallman graduated from the University of Iowa in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology from the Department of Health and Human Physiology in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Following graduation, he worked in the department as an instructor, teaching courses related to human physiology and anatomy. Now, he is headed to medical school at Iowa and shares advice for current HHP students aspiring to attend medical school in this Q&A.
Q: As a student in HHP, what opportunities did you have for hands-on experience, and how did those opportunities prepare you for medical school?
Ethan Stallman: As an HHP student, I was given many opportunities to build hands-on experiences that prepared me for medical school. Through labs in my courses, I connected the scientific concepts I learned in lecture with hands-on experiments. For example, after studying the respiratory system, our class used spirometry devices to test pulmonary function. These labs allowed me to take on the role of a clinician, gathering physiological data and applying what I learned in a practical setting.
Q: After completing your degree in Health and Human Physiology, what motivated you to return as an instructor, and what has it been like to teach future generations of HHP students?
Ethan Stallman: I was motivated to return as an instructor because of my passion for physiology and anatomy. I love sharing about the amazing structures and functions of the body with students. Teaching has been an incredible experience – I’ve enjoyed working with students and helping them prepare for their own scientific and clinical careers.
Q: What advice do you have for current HHP students who aspire to attend medical school?
Ethan Stallman: For anyone aspiring to attend medical school, it’s essential to understand that grades and the MCAT are important but so is gaining relevant experiences and developing a passion for practicing medicine. Use your time as an undergraduate to build skills through volunteering, research, and clinical work. Reflecting on your reasons for wanting to become a physician will help you stay motivated and maintain a long-term vision for your goals.
Q: Now that you’re accepted into the University of Iowa’s Carver College of Medicine, how has HHP prepared you in furthering your academic journey?
Ethan Stallman: HHP has prepared me by connecting complex physiological topics to practical clinical experiences that I can see myself applying as a physician.
Q: What area of medicine are you most passionate about?
Ethan Stallman: From shadowing, I found the impact that primary care physicians have on their patients’ health outcomes inspiring. I’m passionate about practicing medicine with a focus on improving health and establishing long-term relationships with patients. I’m also committed to serving underserved populations, a passion I developed through service events during my undergraduate years.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your long-term professional goals, and how do you see the combination of your HHP background and your medical degree shaping your career path?
Ethan Stallman: My long-term goal is to practice medicine with a whole-person philosophy to improve the overall health of my patients. I also hope to contribute to medical education, advocate for healthcare improvements, and continue volunteering to serve underserved communities. My HHP background provided me with a strong foundation in physiology and anatomy, which will be invaluable as I work toward these goals.