History major Glynn Horkott loves stories. It’s what drew her to a career in medicine.
Horkott graduated in December with minors in philosophy and chemistry and acceptance letters to five medical schools. She starts medical school in Virginia in July.
“I have a passion for learning about people’s stories. That’s why I went into history,” Horkott said. “Being a physician is the best way for me to impact people’s stories.”
Horkott is the daughter of David Horkott, associate professor of philosophy, and fiancé of Dillon Reno ’18, who is also studying to be a doctor.
During her sophomore year, Horkott determined becoming a physician would be the best use of her skills and caring personality. She started volunteering weekly at the Community Health Center of West Palm Beach, where, years later, she still performs rapid HIV tests, takes vitals and interviews and registers patients.
Horkott never considered changing her major from history, which has always been her passion. Although it was challenging to study Hitler’s Germany one hour and biochemistry the next, Horkott’s humanities education — especially the Frederick M. Supper Honors Program’s Great Books curriculum — strengthened her medical school applications, she said.
Some medical schools are even beginning to integrate the humanities into their coursework.
“It is a humanistic background that they’re seeking in new physicians,” Horkott said.
Many people are surprised by Horkott’s pathway to medical school, but to other students considering it she says: “It’s possible. You just have to fulfill the prerequisites.”
