Introducing Drew, a Second-year medical student at Noorda-COM!
When/how did you decide you wanted to be a doctor?
I’ve wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember, but the dream truly solidified when I was about 14. Since then, I’ve steered my life toward medicine in every way possible.
What motivates you every day on your journey to becoming a physician?
My beautiful wife and five children are my biggest motivation. They’ve sacrificed so much to help me chase this dream—we sold our home, left friends and family in Idaho, and moved to Utah (which has been amazing, by the way). This isn’t just my medical degree—it’s our medical degree. It’s been a family effort from the very beginning.
Drew’s family at Noorda-COM.
Why did you choose Noorda-COM?
Noorda-COM immediately stood out for its family-conscious, welcoming atmosphere—something I didn’t feel at any other school I interviewed with.
What is one thing you are most proud of?
I’m proud of my nontraditional path to medicine. I wasn’t ready for medical school in my early years, so I pursued a career in law enforcement instead. After nearly a decade as a State Trooper with the Idaho State Police, I felt called back to medicine. While working full-time, I completed my prerequisites and prepared for medical school. It’s been a long, challenging journey—but I’m proud to have made it here.
Drew being ‘pinned’ by his wife after being sworn in as a State Trooper by the Governor of Idaho.
Who has had the greatest impact on your life or medical journey?
Without question, my wife. People often ask, “How do you do medical school with five kids?” My answer: “My job is easy compared to hers.” She keeps everything running—raising our kids, managing the household, and supporting me every step of the way. I couldn’t do this without her.
What are you passionate about?
My family, BYU athletics, and the New York Yankees (I rarely miss a game).
Drew & Family.
How do you find balance in medical school?
“Balance” might be too generous a word—but I do believe in setting aside time every day for myself and others. When I’m on campus, I’m fully focused. When I go home, I hang up the “medical student” hat and put on the “dad/husband” hat. Other than a little OMT practice, I try not to bring school home. That separation keeps me grounded.
What is your favorite part of osteopathic medicine?
I love that osteopathic medicine focuses on the whole patient—not just symptoms. In many ways, it mirrors my past in law enforcement: investigating, digging deeper, and solving problems so people can feel their best overall.
What specialty of medicine are you most interested in?
Emergency medicine. My years as a first responder taught me to thrive in fast-paced, unpredictable environments, and the ER feels like a natural fit. That said, I’m keeping an open mind as I begin clinical rotations.
What is one of your favorite memories at Noorda-COM?
Some of my favorite moments have come from serving others—whether volunteering at the Volunteer Care Clinic or working with local kids through the Kaufusi’s Keikis program. Few things in life are as rewarding as putting what I’ve learned into practice to help others.
Drew showing a curious keiki how a blood pressure cuff works.
