Kinesiology BS alum pursues medical school: How his degree laid the foundation for medicine
Eric Krohn is a kinesiology BS alum from the School of Kinesiology. Read about his experiences as an undergraduate and how they prepared him for medical school below.
This Fall, Eric Krohn will take a big step towards his future as a physician as he joins the Class of 2029 at Kansas City University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine. His path started years ago in Maple Grove, Minnesota, where his passion for physical activity and human performance started through high school sports.
“Through my experiences in high school, particularly my participation in sports and exercise programs, I observed the positive physical, mental, and social effects of being active. This motivated me to learn more about how and why the body works the way it does.”
As a result, Krohn enrolled in the School of Kinesiology’s Kinesiology BS program at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. He attributes his desire to pursue a career in medicine to the supportive environment, coursework, and professors he encountered during his years in the program.
“One unforgettable memory was having the chance to shadow in an operating room during a neurosurgical case involving the placement of a deep brain stimulator for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.”
Hands-on opportunities were a key role in Krohn’s academic experience. After he completed a course in human anatomy, he talked to his professor about gaining more understanding with this subject. This led to Krohn having a position in the Anatomy lab and at TRIA Orthopedics Surgical Simulation Lab. These opportunities helped him connect to surgeons, medical device representatives, and researchers to open even more doors than he ever thought was imaginable. Additionally, he had the opportunity to go on a medical mission trip to Honduras with faculty members.
Krohn had many other exciting experiences outside of the classroom. He studied abroad in Munich, Germany, and was an athletic medicine intern. As an intern, he collaborated with other students on the Red Bull Crashed Ice event and the athletic training team for the Minnesota Wild.
“My education at the University of Minnesota, particularly in the kinesiology program, has equipped me for the academic challenges ahead and has fostered my ongoing curiosity”.
After graduating from the School of Kinesiology as a first-generation college student, Krohn has continued to find environments that support his interests and desired career in medicine. He’s continued to work in surgery centers and transitional care units, and most recently as a scribe in the Hematology/Oncology Department at Children’s Minnesota.
As Krohn prepares for his next chapter, he is excited to earn a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree (D.O.) from Kansas City University, which aligns with his background in kinesiology and desire to provide holistic patient care. For those who are considering a similar path, Eric offers these helpful tips:
- “Reflect on if this is what you want to pursue because it is a long journey ahead, even if you go straight from undergrad to medical school. Only you can decide if that is worth it for you.
- Don’t be afraid to reach out to others for help and guidance.
- Ensure your application is ready to be reviewed, and try not to rely on “checking the boxes” alone for activities and research.”