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New Trier seniors: Morrison sets sights on medical career
Molly Morrison
Updated: June 19, 2012 9:01AM
New Trier athlete Molly Morrison had an inkling she wanted to pursue a medical career in orthopedics and sports medicine.
But it wasn’t until she spent four weeks shadowing an orthopedic surgeon that her career goal really came into focus. “I’m really glad I took advantage of the opportunity,” said Morrison, 17, who shadowed Dr. Steven Levin, an orthopedic surgeon and sports physician, for her elective Senior Project. Levin works mostly out of Evanston and Glenbrook hospitals, part of the NorthShore University HealthSystem.
“What I loved about it was that every day was different,” said Morrison, who experienced a range of patient issues, from torn rotator cuffs and shoulders to ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and menisci knee injuries. “There was also a lot of arthritis,” she said, noting the patients spanned all age groups and most led active lives.
The Northfield teen and fast-pitch softball catcher is headed to Georgetown University this fall on an athletic scholarship. She plans to pursue pre-medicine.
In addition to playing softball, volleyball and basketball at New Trier, the six-foot Morrison has played for the Illinois Chill traveling softball league since the age of 8.
Chill head coach Pat Morris credited her intelligence, work ethic and determination for her success. “I knew eight years ago that Molly had a lot of God-given talent. But unless you are around her a lot, you don’t really pick up how unbelievably determined she is. Mentally, she is one of the toughest players I have ever seen.” Morrison also coaches Special Olympics in basketball and volleyball.
Morrison realizes she’s been fortunate growing up on the North Shore and wants to give back, perhaps by joining Doctors Without Borders upon completing her medical training and residency in about 14 or 15 years. “I’m determined to do something meaningful with my life, and nothing defines meaningful more than helping other people,” said Morrison.
