“One of the most meaningful parts of my education at Midwestern University has been seeing how passionate my professors are about what they do.”
Name: Audrey Diaz
Program/Year: Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine, Class of 2027
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Undergraduate degree (college/university and degree earned): Baylor University, B.S. in Biology
What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?
I’ve always been drawn to science, especially subjects that involve critical thinking and problem solving. I enjoy figuring things out, whether it’s understanding how a system works or putting pieces together to solve a problem. Healthcare brings those interests together in a meaningful way. Learning how the body works — from the larger systems like circulation to the tiny organisms that help keep us healthy — has been both challenging and fascinating. What truly inspired me was realizing that this knowledge can be used to help others. The idea of using what I’ve learned to improve someone’s health and quality of life is what made me want to pursue a career in healthcare.
How did your background and history factor into your career?
My grandfather was an orthopedic surgeon in another country and my father and uncle both work in business operations within healthcare. I grew up hearing them talk about their work, and even though it wasn’t clinical, it got me used to seeing healthcare as something important and interesting.
What stood out to me most was how much they enjoyed what they did. That stuck with me and when I started thinking about what I wanted to do, medicine felt like something I could see myself being part of, too.
Why did you decide to attend Midwestern University?
During my interview at Midwestern University, I had lunch with a group of Midwestern students. What stood out most was how genuinely happy and excited they seemed. It made me feel like this was a place where people were supported and enjoyed being. I was also impressed by the podiatry lab and how hands-on the program felt. The campus itself is beautiful, with native plants and a reflection pool that make it feel peaceful and grounding.
What about your Midwestern University education do you want to carry forward in your career?
One of the most meaningful parts of my education at Midwestern University has been seeing how passionate the professors are about what they do. It’s clear that they genuinely love their work, and that energy shows in the way they teach and talk about their fields. The podiatry faculty has had a particularly huge impact on me. Their excitement for the field, their dedication to helping students learn, and the way they go above and beyond has shaped the kind of provider I want to be. I hope to carry that same level of passion, curiosity, and commitment into my own career.
