Grateful Tiger Conversation: Stephanie Clookey

Stephanie Clookey
Lawson E. Miller Jr. and Elsie Cross Miller Memorial Scholarship and Loan Fund
Second-year student
Plattsburgh, New York

Q: How has this scholarship assisted in your education?

A: I am grateful for the assistance this scholarship has provided in covering my tuition costs. As a first-generation college student, the decision to leave your job to incur enormous debt chasing your dream feels risky and daunting. This is particularly true for nontraditional students like me, who have other outside expenses. The generosity of the Miller Scholarship has alleviated some of the barriers to my educational aspirations.

Q: What are your career goals and future plans?

A: As a physician, I aspire to work in a rural, underserved community like the one I grew up in. Although I am not sure what area of medicine I want to enter specifically, I am leaning toward some form of primary care.

Q: What else can you tell us about yourself?

A: I have been an athlete my entire life. I was a collegiate athlete, and now I compete in Olympic weightlifting. In addition, I am a nature enthusiast. I consider time outdoors to be a crucial part of my wellness, and when I'm not studying or in the gym, you can find me in Missouri conservation areas or state parks with my fiancé and two dogs.

My decision to attend MU was inspired by the collegiality of the students, the cutting-edge PBL curriculum and MU's patient-centered approach. These characteristics of the School of Medicine aligned with my values, and I'm confident this environment will nurture my professional development.

Q: What message would you like to send your scholarship sponsor?

A: Thank you very much, Miller Memorial Scholarship Fund, for helping me achieve my lifelong dream of medicine. Your generosity has been greatly impactful on my financial wellness as I pursue a path in medicine. I am incredibly grateful for your gift to me.