Lydia West: From UAH Athletics to Rural Medicine

Lydia West is a senior at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), majoring in biology with a minor in chemistry. She is pursuing the pre-professional health concentration, which is preparing her not only for medical school but also for a future career in healthcare.

Originally from Crossville, Alabama, West was drawn to UAH not only by academics, but also by the athletic opportunities. 

“I chose to attend The University of Alabama in Huntsville because I was honored to receive a softball scholarship to play here, and I was also drawn by the university’s strong academic reputation, especially in science,” West says. “My goal is to pursue a healthcare career, and UAH has provided a great balance of academic challenge and athletic opportunity.”

West’s experience at UAH extends far beyond the classroom and the softball field. She is the President of the UAH Pre-Health Society and an active member of many other campus organizations.

“At UAH, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in several organizations that have played a significant role in my personal growth and preparation for a future career in healthcare,” she explains.

When asked about her leadership role as President of the Pre-Health Society, West says that her varied tasks all support fellow students pursuing careers in healthcare. “I help coordinate events, guest speakers, and volunteer opportunities that support students on pre-professional health tracks. This leadership role has strengthened my communication, organization, and teamwork skills—qualities that are essential in the healthcare field.”

As a pitcher on the UAH softball team, West has learned discipline and resilience. She is also involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), the Biological Society, and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), all of which have helped her stay engaged with the campus community and advocate for others.

West’s journey toward medicine was shaped early in life by a personal medical experience that gave her both perspective and purpose.

“At age 14, I was unexpectedly hit in the head with a softball, which led to me receiving a CT scan. That scan revealed I had been living with hydrocephalus—a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain. I was born with it, but it had never been detected before,” she recalls.

“Shortly after the diagnosis, I underwent ETV brain surgery. This life-changing experience not only gave me a new perspective on healthcare, but it also deepened my passion for medicine and inspired me to serve others the way I was treated—with compassion, urgency, and care.”

Following graduation, West plans to pursue the UAB Rural Medicine Program and become a primary care physician serving in underserved areas like rural Alabama.

“The UAH Office of Pre-Health Professions Advising has been incredibly helpful throughout my journey, providing guidance, support, and valuable resources that continue to keep me on track toward achieving my goals.”

One of the most impactful experiences West has had during her time at UAH was her recent participation in the Huntsville Rural Pre-Medical Internship Program.

“The Huntsville Rural Pre-Medical Internship Program gave us the chance to spend four weeks in Huntsville and two weeks shadowing a physician near our hometown,” West explains. “During our time in Huntsville, we got to shadow different doctors, visit hospitals, and attend seminars that focused on rural healthcare.”

“The last two weeks back home made the experience even more meaningful, since we got to see how everything we learned applied to the communities we’re actually from. It opened my eyes to both the struggles and the rewards of working in rural medicine.”

West first learned about the program during UAH’s Health Careers Day, where she met Dr. David Bramm, who introduced her to both the internship and the UAB Rural Medicine Program. The experience reaffirmed her goals.

“Growing up in a small town, I’ve seen how limited access to care affects families, and this program confirmed my goal of becoming a primary care doctor in an underserved area.”

One of the defining moments of West’s academic career at UAH came through a class many students find intimidating: Organic Chemistry.

“I had always heard how difficult the course was, and many people told me I would never be able to earn an A. Instead of letting that discourage me, I accepted the challenge.”

West credits the PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions) program for helping her succeed.

“Through hard work and persistence, I earned an A in both Organic Chemistry I and II, which boosted my confidence and showed me I was capable of handling rigorous coursework.”

Another class that stood out was Genetics with Dr. Ng.

“His teaching style made the material engaging and pushed me to think critically. He sparked my interest in how genetic conditions develop and are passed on, which has helped shape my curiosity and motivation to understand the science behind patient care.”

West explains that being a student athlete has taught her strong time management skills. “I’ve gained valuable experiences through clinical exposure, leadership roles, and community service that have helped shape my interest in healthcare and strengthened my goal of becoming a physician.”

West’s advice to students pursuing pre-health careers at UAH reflects both her perseverance and her practical mindset. “If I could give one piece of advice to a prospective UAH student pursuing pre-health goals, it would be to stay focused, work hard, and never give up on your personal goals even when things get tough. The pre-health track is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.”

“Don’t compare yourself to other students. Everyone has a different path, and success looks different for everyone. What matters most is your determination and how you respond to setbacks.”

“Stay consistent, use the resources available (like tutoring and PASS sessions), and surround yourself with people who support your goals. If you're willing to put in the effort, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.”

Lydia West’s time at UAH has been marked by purpose, resilience, and leadership. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or preparing to serve rural communities, she continues to embody the spirit of determination and compassion that will undoubtedly make her an exceptional physician.