Matthew Corey, MD ’11
Matthew Corey is grateful for the supportive atmosphere at The Jacobs School.
Why did you decide to become a physician?
I wanted a more intellectually stimulating and socially conscious career than the business world was giving me.
Why did you choose UB?
The school gave me such a warm welcome when I toured as an applicant. The comprehensive nature of the curriculum—very thorough from basic to advanced—seemed well-suited to a student with little biomedical course experience.
What have you done that connects you to the Buffalo community?
In my preclinical years, I volunteered at a refugee clinic. We helped provide a medical home for asylum seekers from Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia. The histories are wrenching to hear. Almost all of the patients have lost a close relative to violence.
What drew you to this experience?
I could never just show up and get taught. UB Medical School allows you to contribute knowledge—not just consume it.
How has your community service helped shape your medical interests?
It definitely makes primary care a more attractive and viable option. The need for high-quality, basic healthcare in Western New York is great. In 2010, we sent 42 graduating seniors into internal medicine, family medicine and pediatrics.
How does the Jacobs School emphasize and encourage community service?
The faculty show great pride in our record of service and extol our volunteer experiences to residencies during application season. I think it is a great idea. Residencies are looking for candidates who show a genuine, unforced spirit of altruism.
Have you taken on student leadership roles?
I connected with medical students across the country and the world by running for the office of student representative to the American Association of Medical Colleges. The Buffalo administration likes to experiment with new modes of learning, and the AAMC reps bring back innovative ideas from participating schools.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself?
I am in my 30s, and many friends were shocked when I said I was becoming a physician. But UB gave me a great sense of belonging and support. When I struggled with biochemistry and anatomy, the administration gave me support instead of advising me to quit. I will always be grateful!