Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine for the United States Navy
Hubert, North Carolina
Biology major 2010
Underbrink is a third-year family medicine Resident physician at Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. He is also a naval officer, serving in this capacity. His duties mostly revolve around taking care of dependent families and military retirees in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Underbrink says over the past three years of residency training he has developed an interest in pain management, musculoskeletal conditions, and LGBT health.
How does your time at SPU connect to the work you’re doing today?
During my time at SPU, I received an impeccable education. Not only was I able to get into my top choice for medical school, but I also found myself ready to succeed in the next stage of my education. In my time at SPU, I was a peer adviser on Third Hill and had a seat as treasurer on the Emerson Hall Counsel. I apply the hard-learned leadership lessons from these offices on a daily basis in my job. On the inpatient ward, physicians need to be approachable and inclusive for the hospital staff just as a PA needs to be for his floor. When dorm residents or hospital staff feels heard and valued, we can all help each other to succeed.
Who made a difference in your SPU education?
The late Dr. Cynthia Fitch was my premed advisor and genetics professor at SPU. It is thanks in large part to her mentorship and personal attention that I was able to navigate the complicated and difficult process of applying to medical school. More than that, Dr. Fitch was a relentless cheerleader every step of the way. In her time at the University, she helped untold numbers of students reach their ultimate aspirations to become physicians. She is sorely missed.
What advice do you have for students about life after graduation?
Take any opportunity to work, intern, or volunteer doing what you want to do. Seattle has a lot to offer, and getting involved before you graduate is the best way to get a shoe in at your dream job or school.
