The AMA “Members Move Medicine” series profiles a wide variety of doctors, offering a glimpse into the passions of women and men navigating new courses in American medicine.
On the move with: Aaron Wolbrueck, pursuing DO and MPH degrees at the University of North Texas Health Science Center-Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth.
AMA member since: 2016.
What inspired me to pursue a career in medicine: I’ve always had a passion for science and helping others, and the combination of the two factors has made me want to be a doctor since I was 7 years old. The trust and relationship that physicians can build with their patients is irreplaceable and I can’t wait to be a part of something greater than myself. Being able to medically care for others is a passion and I hope to be able to do it around the world.
How I move medicine: Over the last two years, I’ve tried to be as involved as I possibly can with the AMA and Texas Medical Association, starting off as my school’s delegate at the 2016 Interim Meeting and learning about the in and outs of resolutions and policy development.
From there, I was inspired to grow within the AMA as I grew as a student, serving with the AMA Medical Student Section Committee on Long Range Planning and on my region executive board as secretary/treasurer. Then, I was elected to represent my region as an alternate delegate at two AMA House of Delegates meetings.
In these roles, I have had the chance to vote on policy, assist others in writing resolutions, form reports to change my section’s structure, and interact with a congressman to have a direct voice.
Career highlights: So far, it is being selected as a Health Professions Scholarship Program recipient from the U.S. Air Force and commissioning into the military. When I graduate medical school, I will be commissioned as a captain in the Air Force and get to treat those who serve our country.
Advice I’d give to those interested in pursuing a career in medicine: Never give up on your aspirations, and learn from your mistakes along the way as a means of improving yourself. Adaptability and determination have been my two biggest allies throughout medical school. Most importantly, never be afraid to ask for help from others or to connect with a mentor to improve yourself.
Aspect of my work that means the most: Working with the underserved population of Fort Worth and Arlington through various clinics. Being able to provide free health care and screenings in these settings has allowed us to improve and monitor the health of those that don’t have the resources or access to routine medical care.
Visit MembershipMovesMedicine.com to learn more about other AMA members who are relentlessly moving medicine through advocacy, education, patient care and practice innovation, and join or renew today.
