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With a passion for endocrinology, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2025 graduate Ashley Gerard is moving on to a residency in internal medicine at OhioHealth Doctors Hospital. Gerard, who is from Lewis Center, Ohio, received a bachelor's degree in biology from Butler University.  

What are you most excited about as you take your next step in your career?

Having a larger responsibility and influence in my patients' health. I am excited to work in collaboration with my patients to develop treatment plans that work best for them.

If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be?

Struggles are only temporary and help you grow to become a stronger individual and a place of strength for those who may feel weak.

What led you to a career in medicine?

I have always felt drawn toward the sciences. I realized after many shadowing experiences in different medical careers that allowed me to see I thrive in situations where I can interact and collaborate with people to make a true difference in their lives. Also, having seen the negative sides of healthcare and experiencing physicians that were subpar, I see an opportunity to provide my own insights and care especially when considering autoimmune or more silent diseases.

How would you describe your time at the Heritage College?

A really exciting and at the same time terrifying roller coaster. It was a time of experiencing many new things and a time for me to challenge myself to broaden my life experiences.

Looking back on medical school, what were your most important experiences?

Getting to be involved with the AOA on a national level through the Bureau of Emerging Leaders. Having the opportunity to get involved in teaching by being an OMM Honors TA. Experiencing an Endocrinology rotation for the first time and finding a true passion in this subject.

Tell us about your inspirations in life.

My family is my biggest inspiration. I feel very fortunate to be extremely close to my family and have the ability to be around them often. My mom especially has always been one of my best friends and biggest cheerleaders. She helped introduce me to the world of medicine and see that I have great potential.

Were you involved in research? If so, could you share more about what you worked on?

Yes. I worked on a couple of different projects throughout med school. I did a quality improvement project at Doctors where I created an educational document for patients regarding an OhioHealth initiative known as WE MOVE. This helps encourage appropriate patient movement while they are in the hospital.

I also worked on a case report with Dr. Foster where we had found two cadavers with Poland Syndrome and found they had an extra ligament replacing the pec minor muscle.

Finally, I worked on a OMM project with another HCOM student and Dr. Eilerman. This project explored introducing an OMT bootcamp during residency orientation and how it impacts different resident specialties in their use and understanding of OMT.

Who has helped you along the way? Is there anyone you want to recognize?

One of my biggest supporters throughout med school is my husband, Jake. He is a veterinarian and we spent many nights helping each other learn during our preclinical years. It also was really helpful always having someone around who understands what it means to be in medicine and what challenges we may face.

What hobbies do you have?

I have a very creative mind and love to host themed events. From Halloween parties to murder mystery dinner parties to game nights we have done them all. If I am not planning a party with my mom I am usually planning our next vacation, which typically consists of a Disney trip or cruise. Also, I love hanging out with my two dogs, Finn and Nala.

What didn't I ask that you'd like to share?

My favorite memory from HCOM: Spending my weekends during preclinical years with my best friends Shannon and Gage studying for RATs and exams in "our" study room on the third floor while slowly going loopy and insane.