Open book . . . Dan Carr, SOM ’13
Each Wednesday, the Daily Voice introduces you to a student or resident at UMass Medical School. We’ve asked our subjects to answer a few questions that might reveal a little of their personalities. If you know someone who you’d like to see profiled, let us know at ummscommunications@umassmed.edu.
Why did you choose medical school, and why UMass Medical School?
I have always just wanted to be a doctor since I was little, though my reasons for it have changed from it being "cool" to it being a great way to learn about interesting science and technology, then I combined that with my drive to help others. UMass Medical School was my dream school for many reasons: national ranking, cost, location near my family and friends, resources, advice of other family friend physicians.
Describe yourself in six words or fewer.
Cool, calm, collected, comedic, caring, carnivore.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, name three things you would want.
A dog companion (I don't have one now and I want one), my grill and music.
If you could have dinner with a famous person, living or dead, who would that be and why?
Denzel Washington. Because "to protect the sheep, you gotta catch the wolf, and it takes a wolf to catch a wolf."
What person or experience made you decide to pursue a medical degree and why?
My mom has always supported my interest in medicine. She is head radiology technologist at Mt. Auburn Hospital in Cambridge and has introduced me to many people who helped to develop my interest in medicine.
What is the most interesting or challenging job (paid or unpaid) you’ve ever had, and why? What did it teach you about yourself?
I was an EMT during my year off before medical school. It was interesting because it allowed me to see how patients can be really unsure of what they are going through. Most patients complained about their health care and the doctors in charge of it because they didn't feel they had any role in their own care. This taught me about the challenges of medicine and the important role of communication.
What would your fellow students be surprised to learn about you?
The only thing that makes my blood pressure rise is awfully slow drivers in front of me.
If UMass Medical School had not been an option, what would you be doing right now?
Probably annoying the heck out of my parents by living at home and having no idea what else I would do with my life.
If you could change the world as a physician, what would you like to do?
End the childhood obesity problems in our country.
Most surprising thing you’ve discovered about medical school?
Getting involved in the class show really opened my eyes to how talented our class members are in so many different ways.
Most surprising thing you’ve discovered about Worcester?
How awesome and cheap the local golf is.