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Profiles

Name: Zachary Williamson
Class Year: 2012
Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Undergraduate Institution: SUNY Potsdam
Degree: BA Math/Physics
Hobbies: Disc golf, snowboarding, reading
Favorite Movie: Life as a House

Scholarships/Awards Received: Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Education Foundation Scholarship, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Army Lapel Pin: Department of the Army, Outstanding Tutor Award: Student Success Services, Sophomore Mathematics Alumni Award for Excellence in Mathematics: Department of Mathematics at SUNY Potsdam.

What influenced your decision to pursue a career in Medicine?
My military career exposed me to a variety of standards of living and since that time, I have known I wanted to pursue a career in which I could help improve the lives of other people. As an undergraduate I became very ill. After I was cured, my doctor asked me the question, "have you ever considered a career in medicine?" I left his office with my head spinning and my dreams came into focus.

What has been your most gratifying moment in medical school so far?
I think many people have already said, "to have held a human heart in my hand" and it was a powerful moment for me. However, I think my most gratifying moment was when my 8-year-old daughter asked me how the heart worked and I knew the answer (sort of).

What faculty or staff member has most positively affected your experience at Upstate Medical University thus far? Why?
Upstate has a wonderful staff and they have all been incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and motivating. I will have to say that Dr. Poole has been one of the best. He has gone the extra mile on several occasions, answered my emails, and shown his love for and expertise in his field.

What has been your most challenging aspect of medical school thus far?
Volume, definitely volume. As a math and physics major it was usually a handful of extremely difficult problems to solve. Now the material is not only difficult but voluminous – though with perseverance I am seeing my ability to handle it increase rapidly (which they must know happens because they just add to it every unit). But, honestly, I love it.

If you could pass along any advice to an incoming Upstate Medical University medical student, what would it be?
Hit the ground running, get in a study group, and don't hesitate to ask questions or ask for help.

What experience in medical school has surprised you the most?
I was surprised to find how useful my math and physics background has been with physiology. Of course, I wouldn't suggest skipping your biochemistry classes to take calculus.

What are your aspirations following medical school?
I’d like to work in a major city, do as much community outreach as I can, and perhaps join an organization like Doctors without Borders.

What do you do in your spare time?
What spare time? Well, I suppose when I do have time, I like to read or go see a movie.

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