Jesse transferred to Northwestern from the University of Iowa because he was looking for an education that would build both his mind and his faith. In addition to getting great preparation for medical school, he also wanted to pursue his other passions: music and service. He plays trumpet in the Symphonic and Jazz bands and was a member of Northwestern’s Summer of Service team, spending the summer before his senior year working and ministering at an eye clinic in Ghana, Africa. He also has been a summer research assistant to a Northwestern biology professor, and he’s the president of the Future Physicians Club.

Seeing the future
“I’ve been fascinated by the study of science since elementary school, and I had a phenomenal biology teacher in high school. The study of life is so vast and complex, with so much opportunity for learning and discovery. My interest lies particularly in human biology because I want to work in the medical field; my dream is to become an ophthalmologist—a medical doctor who specializes in vision problems and other eye disorders.”

Signs of a creator
“Some might think studying the sciences—investigating the unknown and unexplainable—could lead a person away from his faith. For me it’s been the opposite. Studying God’s creation through biology has empowered and strengthened my faith by opening a huge window into the true complexity of life as God created it. Just simply being alive involves countless processes working together in unimaginable precision—something I would argue points to an all-powerful, wonderful creator God. The more I learn, the more I see God’s hand in all things.”

Tough classes. Caring teachers.
“Northwestern’s biology department is academically rigorous, but the professors are readily available to students. I’ve never been intimidated by having to ask for help or advice. The professors are very welcoming and have increased my own learning, passion and interest in biology by asking me questions. The department offers a huge variety of classes, and the professors’ enthusiasm results in a great learning environment for students. ”

Scientific inquiry
“Professors integrate their faith with our learning first by just investing so much in us. They provide opportunities for us to discuss our Christian faith and ask how it fits with what we are learning. I’ve discovered that many times there aren’t right or wrong answers to certain issues—what’s most important is that we talk about our faith openly and without fear of judgment so we can continue to build relationships with each other and with God.”

Healing process
“I think everyone is on a lifelong journey to becoming the person God wants them to be. For me, I’m striving to be a compassionate learner and servant because I want to be a physician who takes time to truly listen to, learn from and understand each patient as one of God’s own. I know health care professionals tend to be extremely busy and often find it difficult to treat every patient as a unique individual. But to me, understanding patients’ feelings and concerns on an emotional level is just as important as understanding the biology of their ailment. Medicine involves the heart as much as the mind.”

Campus spirit
“At Northwestern, I’ve learned so much about community and what it means to be a good neighbor by exemplifying the love of Christ. There seems to be a place for everyone here, and a strong sense of belonging. The encouragement I’ve received from professors, staff and friends to continue my journey toward becoming the person God wants me to be has changed my life. I’ve been energized by the spirit I feel on campus to show God’s love to all people I encounter throughout life. I’m just so grateful for what I’ve learned and experienced here.”