Samantha Bush (DO '20) 
Match Day 2020

March 24, 2020

In the midst of a global pandemic, students from the class of 2020 celebrated one of the most exciting days in their professional journey—match day. Here they share their personal match story, what has inspired them along the way and what advice they would give to students starting the journey today.

What is your name, program and anticipated graduation year?

Samantha Bush, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Class of 2020

What inspired you to go into medicine?

My dad's amazing doctor who cared for him during his bladder cancer treatments. After having some issues with his treatment with his first doctor, he got a second opinion. His second urologist's care was compassionate and comprehensive during a time of fear and uncertainty for our family. My dad has made a full recovery and is doing great now!

Where did you match?

Lancaster General Hospital

What specialty have you chosen to pursue and why?

Technology has changed the way we practice medicine, yet the human element to medicine has changed very little over time. I have always admired the idea of the traditional community doctor who “does it all” and plays a pivotal role in the patient's health care. For me the specialty that most closely aligns with how I aspire to practice is family medicine. Family medicine doctors have a special role in their patient’s care because of the relationships they build with them. They listen to their patient’s needs and monitor their care through consistent follow up and communication. The diversity of knowledge and breadth of skills combined with compassion and empathy allows for a holistic approach to patient care.

As I rotated through each specialty, I observed the precision of the surgeons, the detailed history taking of the psychiatrists, the creative thinking of the internists and dedication of the obstetricians. I enjoy learning new skills and have many interests, whether they be hobbies or subjects in school. After completing my family medicine rotations, I realized that I need to pursue a career that lets me utilize each of the skills from the various specialties. During my rotations, what I found most striking was the relationships built by the family medicine physicians.

My experience with family medicine thus far has been amazing. I have enjoyed working with and learning from physicians who genuinely care about their patients’ wellbeing. Within family medicine my interests are in geriatrics, OMT, and women's health. I hope one day to be a clinically well-rounded physician who can provide the best care to my patients. I am so excited to start this next chapter of my life!

How did you feel when you matched?

Elated, surprised, emotional. I definitely cried.

What advice would you give to year one medical students starting their journey?

Don't sweat the small stuff. Everything happens for a reason. You are exactly where you are meant to be. Smile, be kind, work hard and have fun.

What is one memory you will take with you from PCOM?

All of the late night studying and eating junk food with my best friend and classmate Peter Keares. He is the reason I survived my first two years of med school and I am eternally grateful to have a friend like him in my life.