Class of 2026 graduate profile: Jack Spero

For Class of 2026 graduate Jack Spero, one of the defining moments of medical school was his participation in a selective clerkship that immerses students in a family medicine practice. In traditional clerkships, medical students rotate through specialties every few weeks, but the Continuity in Family Medicine: Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship, which is offered by the Office of Rural and Underserved Programs at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, gives students the opportunity to spend a year at the same practice. Being in one place allows students like Spero to see the realities of family medicine and get to know patients. Maybe then, it's no surprise that Spero, a Cleveland native and graduate of The Ohio State University, recently learned he would be doing his residency at the family medicine program at Northwell Plainview Hospital on Long Island, New York. 

What are you most excited about as you take your next step in your career?

Having more responsibility in patient care.

If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be?

As it has been said, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react.”

What led you to a career in medicine?

Advocating and assisting people in their pursuit to achieve their individualized health goals has always been a goal of mine.

How would you describe your time at HCOM? 

A great opportunity to grow personally, academically and professionally.

Looking back on medical school, what were your most important experiences?

Participating in the Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship in Family Medicine during third year and building continuity of care with patients, developing a professional relationship with my preceptor, as well as collaborating with an interdisciplinary team.

How did your involvement in the Rural and Urban Pathways (RUSP) program affect your medical education and career?

RUSP introduced me to a physician mentor who guided me through a variety of family medicine related opportunities, such as the Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship and the LeRoy Rodgers Summer Preceptorship.

Tell us about your inspirations in life.

I am inspired by my parents’ work ethic, loyalty to their family and zest for life. They inspire me to be the best person I can be each and every day.

Were you involved in research? If so, could you share more about what you worked on?

As part of the Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship, I was involved in a quality improvement project that focused on treatment for latent tuberculosis infection, culminating in presenting the project at the Family Medicine Education Consortium. The results demonstrated that patients living with latent tuberculosis and who had an established primary care provider (PCP) were more likely to complete treatment for the condition than patients who did not have an established PCP.

Who has helped you along the way? Is there anyone you want to recognize?

In addition to my parents, who have given me endless support, I wish to recognize my preceptor, Dr. Stephanie Deuley, for her wisdom and encouragement during my medical school years.

What hobbies do you have?

Long walks with my dog while listening to podcasts, running, reading and spending time with family and friends.

What didn’t I ask that you’d like to share?

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Heritage College for all the support and encouragement over the past four years.