Julie Owen is a senior at the University of Oklahoma where she is a biology major on a pre-medical track. Her plan is to graduate in May of 2022. Deciding to enter the medical field is a big decision. One Owen made in part when she was very young but solidified her decision as a student at Oklahoma.
“Whether it was my science fair projects in elementary school or heading across the country to Maryland, to attend a National Youth Leadership Forum on Advanced Medicine and Health Care on the campus of Johns Hopkins University, I have always had a deep love for science and all things medicine,” Owen said. “At the University of Oklahoma, I have begun to focus more intensely on my medical path while volunteering with the Oklahoma Blood Institute and the opportunity to job shadow successful physicians in the community provided me with more knowledge on the work atmosphere and life of a doctor.”
Owen is an active student and former athlete at OU. She was a member of the rowing team and enjoyed much success competing with her teammates.
“I still remember exactly where I was sitting when I jokingly told my mom I was going to try out for the rowing team. Little did I know not only would I make the team but have the opportunity to medal at the Big 12 rowing regatta in Tennessee. Being a part of the OU rowing team, I was able to meet lifelong friends, travel all over the country and push myself mentally and physically,” said Owen.
Over the summer, Owen was given the opportunity to work with the University of Oklahoma Sports Medicine team as an intern.
“Having worked with athletics for the past two years in the nutrition department, I was excited for a new experience. I am able to assist pre practice/game athlete preparations as well as post game/practice rehabilitation. Being on the sidelines with the team during such an exciting season, truly has created a special family bond. I am able to see a new side of not only the athletic department but the medical field as well,” said Owen.
Recently, Owen was the recipient of the NW Oklahoma Osteopathic Foundation scholarship.
“This scholarship has provided me with numerous resources, contacts and support through my premedical process each of which I am extremely thankful for. When I first received this scholarship, I was so excited about the thought of a mentorship program and the opportunities it will provide, and it has done just that. I have had the opportunity to meet a number of physicians in the area as well as other students on the same path as me. As one of the older students to receive the scholarship now, I can’t help but feel excited for the new younger students and the opportunities that lie ahead of them,” Owen said. “During the Northwest Osteopathic Society meetings, I have had the opportunity to hear from physicians in the surrounding areas as well as representatives from health centers across the state. The meetings present a perfect time to network, meet physicians and share thoughts, ideas, and advice. Each of the members of Northwest Osteopathic Foundation have offered words of advice, encouragement, and the opportunity for me to contact them during my pre-medical career path.
Owen said she is thankful for the many amazing people who have supported her.
“I would not be where I am today without the amazing support of each of them. Whether it was helping me study for the MCAT or being my plus one at the one of the Northwest Osteopathic meetings on a weekday, my family and friends constantly support my dreams,” Owen said. “While furthering my education in college, the mentorship I received through Northwest Osteopathic Foundation. Executive Director Anita Luetkemeyer and Board of Directors President Dr. Jonathan Bushman, DO, have supported me through scholarships while encouraging me and providing lifelong tools and advice as I continue my medical journey.
