WKU News

When Katy Hetzer, a pre-med student from Nashville, Tennessee, stepped onto the campus of Western Kentucky University (WKU), she already had her sights set on something bigger: a global education that would prepare her to care for patients across cultures and languages. Now entering her third semester at WKU, Katy is already making waves with her ambitious academic path, immersive study abroad experience, and deep commitment to service.

A Passion for Medicine and Spanish

Katy is pursuing a pre-med track with a major in Biology and a minor in Spanish—an intentional combination that reflects her desire to become a compassionate, culturally competent physician. Her recent study abroad program in Costa Rica, focused on Spanish for Health Professionals, was a perfect fit.

“I got to take two classes while I was down there,” Katy shared. “They taught us how to take vitals in Spanish, how to gather personal data during intake, and we acted out a lot of patient care scenarios. It was incredibly useful.”

Currently working as a tech at Med Center Health as well as in a pulmonology clinic, Katy is already applying her skills in real-world settings. In both of these positions, Katy is gaining valuable hands-on experience through the duties she performs and the on-site training she receives.

Embracing Global Learning

Katy’s decision to study abroad wasn’t just about academics—it was about immersion. Living with a host family in San José, she experienced Costa Rican culture firsthand. Her “Mama Tica” welcomed her and a roommate into her home, offering daily Spanish conversations over traditional meals like gallo pinto.

“It was definitely their house, their rules,” Katy laughed. “But it was such a great way to learn. My Spanish isn’t perfect, and my roommate didn’t speak any at all, so we relied on Google Translate a lot. But it really helped.”

From navigating public transportation to planning weekend trips across the country, Katy embraced the independence that came with international travel. “I feel so much more confident now,” she said. “I know how to get through customs, how to stay safe, and how to handle unexpected situations.”

Looking Ahead: Medicine, Research, and Service

Katy’s calendar is packed this semester. She’s applying to WKU’s Early Assurance Program (EAP) for medical school, aiming to secure an interview with the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. She’s also planning to join a research lab and volunteer at a local domestic abuse shelter.

Despite taking seven classes and working two jobs, Katy remains focused and grounded. “Time management,” she admitted. “You just have to do what you can and accept that.”

Her long-term goal? Possibly emergency medicine or other specialized fields that allow her to “know a lot about a lot.” She’s open to medical schools in Kentucky, Tennessee, and even Texas, where she has family ties and a legacy of scientific curiosity through her great-grandfather, a PhD in biology.

Advice for Fellow Students

Katy encourages other pre-med students not to shy away from study abroad. “It’s possible to fit it in, even with a packed schedule,” she said. “You just have to plan ahead and find the right program.”

Her journey is a testament to the power of combining academic rigor with cultural exploration. Whether she’s practicing Spanish with her host mom or assisting in a lung nodule clinic, Katy Hetzer is already making a difference—and she’s just getting started.