Discovering New Passions Through Rural Medicine
Discovering New Passions Through Rural Medicine
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Published: February 02, 2026
| Categories:
Health,
Career,
Innovation
Reflections on My Summer Preceptorship
This summer, I had the privilege of participating in a six-week rural health preceptorship at Union Hospital, an experience designed to immerse medical students in the unique challenges and rewards of rural healthcare. The program exposed me to a wide variety of clinical settings and highlighted the profound impact physicians can have in communities where access to care is often limited.
The Multi-faceted Nature of Rural Healthcare
Over the course of the preceptorship, I shadowed physicians across multiple specialties, including internal medicine, family medicine, general surgery, orthopedics, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and emergency medicine. Each rotation offered a new perspective on practicing in a rural environment, where physicians often serve as both specialists and primary care providers while actively engaging with the community. Whether during clinic visits, hospital rounds, or surgical consults, I observed how deeply connected rural physicians are to their patients’ lives, not just as healthcare providers but as trusted members of the community.
A Memorable Moment in Obstetrics
One of the most memorable experiences of the summer came during my rotation in obstetrics and gynecology, when I had the chance to scrub into a cesarean section for the first time. Feeling the umbilical cord pulse just before it was clamped was a moment I will never forget. It was a tangible reminder of the miracle of life and the privilege of participating in a patient’s most intimate and vulnerable moments. That experience deepened my appreciation for the role a physician plays in guiding the delicate and profound process of bringing new life into the world and underscored the importance of ensuring access to maternal care in rural communities.
Teamwork in Emergency Medicine
Another transformative part of the preceptorship was my exposure to emergency medicine, a specialty I had not previously considered. Spending time in the emergency department, I witnessed how physicians, nurses, and the care team collaborated to handle everything from minor lacerations to severe trauma cases. I also had the chance to ride along in an ambulance with the paramedics, gaining firsthand insight into the critical role of pre-hospital care and the difference it can make in a patient’s outcome. These experiences gave me a deeper appreciation for how patient care depends on strong collaboration among physicians, nurses, technicians, paramedics, and others who play essential roles in supporting patient care.
Engaging With Rural Health Advocates
In addition to clinical work, I had the opportunity to attend the Indiana Rural Health Association Conference in French Lick, Indiana, where I met physicians, medical students, and community leaders committed to advancing healthcare in rural areas. The conference emphasized the ongoing need for advocacy, innovation, and collaboration to address the unique barriers rural communities face. I am especially grateful to Marian University Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine for sponsoring my attendance and for supporting programs that encourage students to explore the intersection of medicine and community service.
In Summary
Reflecting on my time in the preceptorship, I feel both inspired and challenged. I gained invaluable clinical experience, but more importantly, I developed a deeper understanding of what it truly means to serve. Rural medicine challenges physicians to be problem solvers, educators, and advocates for their communities, all while maintaining a commitment to compassion, integrity, and collaboration. This experience reinforced how essential teamwork is across the healthcare system to ensure patients receive timely, effective care.
While I am still exploring which specialty I may ultimately pursue, I know the lessons I learned this summer will continue to shape my dedication to serving communities in need and advancing the mission of Marian University Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine.
About the Author
Thuwebat Adebayo is a second-year osteopathic medical student at the Marian University Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine. As an immigrant from Nigeria, she is passionate about healthcare access and representation in medically underserved communities. She is also involved in leadership through the Student American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics chapter at MU-WCOM. Outside of medicine, she enjoys spending time with family and attending concerts.
About Franc Notes
Discover the voices of Marian University's health professions students through "Franc Notes", a vibrant, student-led blog that embodies our Franciscan commitment to community, reflection, and compassionate service. Inspired by the rhythm of "SOAP notes," it features weekly insights—from "DO Diaries" interviews with physicians to summer reflections and program spotlights—fostering collaboration across disciplines."
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