Recent SLCC graduate Preston Waddle decided to dedicate his life to service through the medical field. He didn’t make that decision on a whim. Instead, it was the result of a slow-building certainty inspired by an early interest in healthcare and confirmed during his clinicals as a surgical technician, a religious mission in Ohio, and an opportunity to study abroad in Mexico. That wide-ranging experience taught him that effective healthcare depends as much on providing access, empathy, and education as it does on providing medical expertise.
From a young age, Preston aspired to enter the medical field, driven by his father's example, who is a nurse. While in high school, he earned his Surgical Technician certificate from SLCC and began working at Intermountain Medical Center, earning his board certification during his senior year.
After graduating, Preston served a two-year religious mission in Ohio, where his passion for healthcare intensified. He witnessed firsthand how individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds often faced health issues due to a lack of resources and knowledge about healthcare. This experience solidified his vision for his future in medicine.
Upon returning, he continued working as a surgical technician while pursuing an associate of science degree, with his sights set on medical school.
During his second-to-last semester at SLCC, Preston discovered a study abroad opportunity in Mexico City, encouraged by Carolina Bloem, the director of the Center for Latin American Studies. Despite initial hesitations regarding finances and timing, he couldn’t resist the chance.
“During my time studying abroad, I realized that this is a multidisciplinary opportunity which broadened my perspective,” he stated. His time in Mexico helped him understand the cultural barriers that prevent people from seeking medical help, deepening his empathy for those he aims to serve in his future career.
Preston envisions himself as a physician who not only heals bodies but also engages in community health education. He believes it’s crucial that individuals feel comfortable discussing their health concerns with doctors. Ultimately, his experiences as a missionary and studying abroad shaped his understanding of the important link between cultural experiences and compassionate, sensitive care in medicine.