George F. Bonadurer III

Why did you choose research as a career?

Advancements in medicine cannot be accomplished without meaningful research.

A career in research will provide me with the opportunity to carry out scientific investigations to seek answers to questions that can lead to improvements in patient health and outcomes not only for the individual patient but also for the population as a whole. It will also allow me to broaden my knowledge base and develop my critical thinking skills so I can provide better care to my patients.

I find the complexities and challenges of conducting research to be both intriguing and rewarding, and I am looking forward to carrying it out throughout my career.

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences?

Mayo Clinic is a world-renowned academic medical center at the forefront of patient care and research. Mayo's commitment to patient care and the important role research plays in it is exemplified in the training and education offered through Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.

That commitment — along with the incredible facilities, faculty and resources of Mayo Clinic — will help to ensure that I achieve my goal of becoming an emerging physician-scientist.

Why did you choose the clinical and translational science track?

As a prospective physician-scientist, my goal is to be able to spend time in both patient care and research. I knew that the clinical and translational science track would provide me with the skills to achieve that goal. In particular, performing clinical and translational research is the ideal way to see the direct impact of my scientific pursuits on actual patients' lives.

What do you like about Rochester?

Having grown up in the Midwest, I feel right at home in Rochester and have found it to be the ideal place to study medicine. The people of Rochester are very welcoming and friendly, and there is no shortage of ways to get involved in the community.

Also, there is so much to do in and around Rochester, from the excellent parks and trails to the social atmosphere of the downtown area. Overall, Rochester's active and lively aspects, while still maintaining a small-town feel, are a perfect fit for me.

What are your plans for the future?

My plan is to finish medical school and, after residency, to be part of an academic medical institution where I can pursue my interests in patient care, research and teaching.