I commissioned into the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant the month before I started medical school at UNE, which was nearly 4 years ago! I am so excited to be promoted to the rank of Captain. I am a Health Professions Scholarship Program recipient, which means that I will serve a number of years as an Active Duty physician in our military, in exchange for financial support to cover the cost of my medical education. This is something I am so proud to do, and I am very excited for the road that lies ahead.
The military has provided me with numerous, unique experiences and opportunities so far. I have attended several military-specific trainings, including but not limited to Commissioned Officer Training (what some people might think of as “boot camp” for doctors, lawyers, nurses, etc.) between my first and second years of medical school. I have also completed two Aerospace Medicine courses through the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine. One of the most memorable experiences I have had was learning to fly a plane, experience an altitude chamber, and multiple flight simulation experiences. I have had the opportunity to learn about multiple different types of aircraft, and health conditions and considerations seen specifically in the U.S. military. I loved these experiences so much, that I have actually decided to become a flight surgeon for the Air Force following the completion of residency. Since three of my aunts and uncles were pilots in the Air Force, I am particularly proud that I will be caring for this population of Airmen. I am so excited to have matched to my top choice residency program in the Washington, DC area, and I cannot wait to see where my military career will take me.
CAPT LAUREN PALITZ FERGUSON, DO '20 (UNITED STATES AIR
FORCE)