Why I chose UW: Megan Barthels, MD

Meet Megan Barthels, MD (she/her), class of 2026.

Q: Hometown?
A: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Q: What’s your educational background prior to residency?
A: I earned my BSN from Valparaiso University in Indiana and completed my MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee.

Q: Why did you choose the University of Wisconsin residency program?
A: I chose UW first and foremost because of the supportive people. I also was impressed by the diverse training environments that the residents are exposed to and felt like this would prepare to practice in just about any setting.

Q: What are some of your medical interests?
A: Ultrasound and wilderness medicine

Q: What job would you do if you weren’t a physician?
A: I would be a nature guide that leads hiking endeavors in the mountains and forests.

Q: What activities keep you busy and grounded outside of work?
A: Some of my favorite hobbies include running, biking, and climbing. Perhaps my favorite would be spending a long day on a trail with my dog, Colby, in addition to spending time with family and friends.

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