Dialogues

Aug 6, 2025, 08:22

Empowering Oncologists: How my cancer journey fueled my passion for becoming an Oncologist?

In this episode of Empowering Oncologists, Dr. Jasmine Kamboj interviews Zachary Schroeder, a medical school graduate and the founder of the Rural Cancer Institute. Zach shares his personal journey, from his diagnosis with stage 3 melanoma to his passion for increasing access to cancer care in rural communities. He talks about the challenges of balancing medical school and cancer treatment, the importance of advocacy, and how his experiences shaped his mission.

Zach explains how the Rural Cancer Institute works to bridge the gap in healthcare access for underserved rural populations and his efforts behind launching Rural Cancer Awareness Day. He also offers advice for those considering a medical career, emphasizing the value of the journey in medicine rather than focusing solely on the destination.

Key Highlights:

Zach’s experience growing up in rural Kansas and the lack of healthcare access
Balancing a cancer diagnosis with medical school and life responsibilities
Founding the Rural Cancer Institute to advocate for rural cancer care
Advice for students considering a career in medicine: embracing the journey
How personal experiences with illness can shape advocacy and policy change

00:00 Introduction
01:32 Zachary Schroeder’s journey to medicine
03:39 Zach’s life-changing melanoma diagnosis at 21
06:27 Zach’s story of resilience during his cancer treatment
07:11 Rural Cancer Awareness Day: How it started
09:03 The Rural Cancer Institute: Vision & mission
13:17 Inaugural Rural Cancer Conference: Success and challenges
15:26 Planning a conference while in medical school
18:08 Advice for high schoolers and undergrads considering medicine
19:52 Reflections on the journey of medical school and personal growth
30:55 Final advice on navigating the medical journey
33:42 Conclusion and closing remarks from Jasmine Kamboj and Zachary Schroeder