5 questions with medicine’s McKenzie Chappell, Class of 2026
As commencement approaches for Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine students, the excitement of what lies ahead is matched by the gratitude to the people, classes and clinicals that made a difference along the way—because the journey of earning one’s degree is just as important and impactful as the destination of a healthcare career.
To capture that experience, we spoke with several School of Medicine graduates as they prepare to close this chapter and step into the next.
Read on to learn about McKenzie Chappell, a Doctor of Medicine (MD) candidate from Painesville, Ohio.
Answers have been lightly edited.
What initially drew you to CWRU?
My path to CWRU started long before I even knew I wanted to be a physician. At 11 years old, I was diagnosed with epilepsy at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital. I spent the next decade seeing a wonderful child neurologist who encouraged me and reminded me that I am more than a girl with epilepsy. When it came time to apply for medical school, I knew how much CWRU values students with different life experiences. Beyond that, I wanted to learn from and give back to the wonderful community that took care of me so long ago—and being close to my family was certainly a perk too.
What course or campus experience shaped your education most?
During my first year, I met some incredible classmates who also live with chronic illnesses. Recognizing how difficult it is to navigate medical school and the world of medicine while you are also a patient, we co-founded an affinity group called Student, Doctor, Patient. It was an amazing way to connect with classmates going through similar experiences and to support each other.
What is your favorite memory as a student at CWRU?
Graduating! (Kidding.) My favorite memory is definitely making bedazzled coasters in the call room while working nights at Rainbow. I absolutely loved getting to spend time with my team members in between caring for patients—everyone was so welcoming and kind, and they definitely made my stretch of nights much more pleasant!
What’s next for you after graduation?
Professionally, I will be starting child neurology residency at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, which I am thrilled about. Personally, I'm getting married!
What advice would you give to new students in your program?
Follow your own path. There are so many amazing people doing amazing things that it can feel like you're behind or not doing enough. Find your support group (whether that be classmates, friends outside of medicine, family, or even pets) and lean on them. Medical school is an exciting journey with plenty of highs and lows. Just remember that you've already made it this far, and that is an accomplishment worth celebrating.
