Jonathon Lewis, a second-year medical student at the University of Louisville School of Medicine recently represented the ULSOM at the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) RISE Conference: Developing Future Leaders in Academic Medicine & Science for 2nd-year Medical Students. Before joining ULSOM, Jonathon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience and the University of Michigan with a Master of Science in Physiology. Jonathon now serves as the Vice President of the Class of 2027 and Course Representative for Neuro Anatomy.

ULSOM: What has been your inspiration to pursue medical school?

Lewis: I had always been drawn towards science and math growing up, but in the fourth grade, I began to experience heel pain. The pain would only worsen, and it eventually reached the point where I had to consult an orthopedic doctor. He told me that I was diagnosed with Sever's disease, which is a common growth plate disease in active young people, and that I would need to sit out for the rest of my current football season. At the time, I was heartbroken, as I loved football more than anything, so I began to sob uncontrollably in his office. He comforted me by saying that if I kept my good grades, I could take over for him one day. To a sad 4th grader, his words did not mean much, but as I grew up and began researching all the cool things an orthopedic surgeon does, I became fascinated with the career. Finally, after shadowing doctors throughout high school, I decided to attend medical school. 

ULSOM: How would you describe your medical school experience up to this point? 

Lewis: My experience has been fantastic. I love my classmates and teachers here at Louisville. Everyone is so supportive, welcoming, and easy to talk to. Our class shares tons of materials that help digest the content. I feel that I have been able to keep up with the things I love, like going to the gym while maintaining a social life and heavy workload. 

ULSOM: What are your goals as a future physician?

Lewis: I have lofty goals for my future as a physician. One of my main drivers for getting through medical school is to help bridge the health inequity gap in underserved populations. In 2021, I worked as a scribe in South Side Chicago, where I witnessed the closing of Mercy Hospital. It was the community's only hospital that provided comprehensive specialty care. Due to Mercy's closing, patients who came to our medical clinic needed to be referred to hospitals that were referred to hospitals that were now 30–40-minute drives away from them. Since many relied on public transportation, their commutes to receive care lasted upwards of an hour. They also reported to me that their issues were not taken seriously once they went to these hospitals. Ultimately, I want to become an orthopedic surgeon and use my resources and network to help create medical infrastructure for those with limited access. 

ULSOM: How did your recent experience at the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) RISE Conference: Developing Future Leaders in Academic Medicine & Science for 2nd-year Medical Students impact you as a future physician?

Lewis: My recent experience at the RISE conference was eye-opening. I got to meet so many outstanding students across the country who were very driven and inspirational. I tried my best to learn as much as possible from them. The program highlighted the importance of maintaining your purpose and meaning as a physician, which was refreshing. As a medical student, your academic workload can often consume you. I learned how to heighten my emotional intelligence to help better lead my staff and those around me as a future physician. This program also supplied me with a network of future leading physicians who are all eager to make a positive impact on this world. 

ULSOM: As you continue your progression through medical school, what other opportunities excite you?

Lewis: Through the RISE conference, I was able to connect with Dr. Geoffrey Young, who is working on implementing the AAMC's action plan to increase the diversity of medical school applicants and matriculants. I'm very excited at the possibility of working with him and helping to diversify the medical field. As a member of UofL SOM's Distinction in Business track, I'm excited to continue to learn more about the business side of medicine and continue to take part in projects that shape our community. I'm also happy to have the opportunity to continue networking with orthopedic surgeons and sports science physicians and to grow my research background.  

The University of Louisville School of Medicine proudly recognizes Lewis for his achievements and commends him for his dedication to learning and growth throughout his tenure in medical school.