Members of the class are inquisitive, accomplished and serious, yet fun-loving, friendly and unpretentious. They include musicians, singers, soccer players, bicycle riders, ultimate players, crew rowers, fly fishermen, Irish dancers and lots of runners. Many have been tutors, community and emergency room volunteers, while others have volunteered for widely known groups such as Teach for America, Habitat for Humanity, Relay for Life, American Cancer Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Special Olympics. The class also includes several students who were on their own and had to work a lot to fund their undergraduate educations.
Several came with international experiences in places such as Malawi, the Marshall Islands, Asia, South America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Latin America.
And all of them are serious about learning, discovery and using medicine to help others. Every year, incoming students document these passions as they don their first white coats.
Learn more about our students’ backgrounds and academics »
Meet our students
Our students have many different reasons and motivations for why they are here. Learn more about what made them want to become doctors and why they chose to come to medical school here at Washington University.
The Many Dimensions of an Entering Class
Each year, incoming students share brief self-introductions with their classmates and the School of Medicine community as they prepare for orientation. Alongside their hometowns and academic backgrounds, they offer glimpses into who they are beyond the classroom—highlighting hobbies, talents, personal quirks, favorite music, and what drew them to WashU Medicine.
The result is always the same: a collection of stories that is equal parts inspiring, surprising, and often unintentionally funny. Together, these snapshots reflect a community defined not only by academic excellence, but by curiosity, creativity, and individuality.
Among our students are those who have swum with sharks, training in athletics at a competitive/professional level, or shared a meal with a childhood science icon. Others bring quieter but equally memorable traits—like a love of building intricate LEGO sets, an ability to recite U.S. presidents in order (sometimes with an accent), or a deep appreciation for Highland cows.
Musical and artistic expression often rings strong. Some students play instruments like the ukulele or piano, while others enjoy singing across genres or creating handmade cards for special occasions. There are poets, calligraphers, and even those who dabble in niche academic interests well outside the traditional medical curriculum.
Backgrounds span the globe and a wide range of life experiences. Students arrive from small rural towns and major international cities alike. Some grew up on farms, others across multiple countries, and many bring unique cultural perspectives—including multilingualism and global travel. These varied paths enrich both the classroom and the community.
A number of students share unexpected or humorous personal details—talents like ear-wiggling or mirrored handwriting, stories of unusual childhood fears, or admissions of being able to nap almost anywhere. Others highlight significant accomplishments, from military service to performing arts appearances, endurance athletics, or ambitious personal goals achieved over time.
Food, hobbies, and pets also play a central role in students’ lives. Culinary skills range from baking pastries to preparing international dishes, while hobbies include everything from aeromodeling to philosophy. Many students are devoted pet owners—sometimes of more than one species—and proudly share stories of their companions.
Athletics and physical pursuits are equally diverse. Students have backgrounds in team sports, dance, martial arts, and endurance competitions, while others simply enjoy staying active in their own way. A shared theme is balance—finding time for both personal passions and professional growth.
When asked to describe themselves in a single word, common themes emerge: curious, resilient, optimistic, adventurous, and genuine. These qualities mirror what we see throughout the community—individuals who are not only driven, but thoughtful and collaborative.
Students also reflect on what drew them to WashU Medicine. Many point to the supportive environment, the collaborative culture, and the opportunity to explore their interests through innovative curricular experiences. Just as often, they mention the people—future classmates and faculty who made a lasting impression during the admissions process.
While some arrive with a clear vision of their future specialty, many remain open to discovery. That openness—to new ideas, new paths, and new perspectives—is part of what defines the learning environment here.
Taken together, these profiles offer a simple but powerful reminder: there is no single path to medicine, and no single way to belong here. The strength of our community lies in the individuality of each student—and in the shared commitment to learning, growth, and care for others.
