David Kobe (BIO ’24) wanted to become a medical professional ever since he was a kid. “You kind of flip flop between careers when you’re young,” Kobe reflected. “When I was maybe ten, my dad suggested, ‘Why not be a doctor?’”
Kobe took his father’s advice to heart and decided to pursue medicine. This decision fueled him to get a head start on the courses he knew he would have to take, completing many of his chemistry pre-requisites in high school. As a biology major, Kobe is fascinated with the physiology of the human body and loves discovering the intricacies of how it works at a biochemical and cellular level.
One of his favorite BYU experiences was studying freshwater fish in Ghana and completing humanitarian work with Dr. Mark Belk. He valued the opportunity to have an impact on the community by testing people for malaria in local medical clinics.
"I loved helping the people, especially the little children who needed testing," he shares. The interactions with the locals deeply impacted Kobe. "I loved seeing how I could help as those who were diagnosed with malaria were able to receive medications to treat the disease," reflects Kobe. "This was something that solidified my desire to enter medicine as it allows me to use science in a way that it benefits those I come into contact with."
Kobe serves on the leadership board of Y-Chem, BYU’s chapter of the American Chemical Society. As a student-run organization, Kobe values interacting with students who are as passionate about chemistry and science as he is.
BYU was always Kobe’s “number one option.” His favorite aspect of attending BYU is the focus on faith and science in his courses. “The professors in the biology department stress that you can have religion and science," he says. "They're not mutually exclusive.” He appreciates the emphasis on evolution and biodiversity in explaining God’s creation process. This outlook helps him to see God’s hand in all things.
Kobe is currently in the process of applying for medical school. He is grateful for all of the experiences he's had at BYU. They have prepared him for the next step in his journey toward achieving his dream of becoming a doctor.
