From an early age, Margeaux LaCavera, DO ‘21, played the role of doctor with her two
siblings. “When we were little,” she recalls, “I would be the doctor, my middle sister
was the patient, and my youngest sister was the nurse.”
Their roles are now reality as Margeaux has earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, while her middle sister is an English teacher, and her youngest sister is an ICU nurse like their mother. Her siblings inspire her.
“Education is how we change the world,” she believes, “And nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system,” she said, adding “And I am always greatly inspired by individuals who challenge injustice and fight hate with the power of love.”
LaCavera said, “My parents always encouraged us to pursue careers that give back to others. The desire to help humanity was instilled in me at an early age and they have helped get me here.”
A Gwinnett County resident who graduated from Grayson High School, LaCavera matched into internal medicine at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. She earned an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, and a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences from PCOM Georgia. While at PCOM, she enjoyed residing with her family, while saving money on living expenses.
She said she chose a career in osteopathic medicine because “I always wanted to dig into the intricacies of science and have a deeper understanding of everything I could.” She added, “I love being a student and I wanted a career where I can be a lifelong learner and be challenged continuously. Medicine is that career.”
During her career, which may include a fellowship in critical care, LaCavera plans to help improve the quality of her patients’ lives. “I strive to be an individual who is known for authenticity. I want both my patients and peers to feel comfortable around me which, in turn, will help produce better care,” she said.
She relaxes through her favorite hobby of thrift shopping. “I think thrifting is a fun and sustainable way to put together outfits and décor. The textile industry is a large contributor of waste and pollution in the world, and I try to be conscious of my overall footprint – all while getting a good deal!” she said.
Her advice to those following in her footsteps – “With humility, you will meet success. It takes strength to ask for help and admit you don’t know something, but it will take you far and it may save someone’s life one day.” Her motto – “Always be grateful.”
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