Meet Katie Pursley

Crafting a new medical legacy 

Over the next four years, we will follow members of the inaugural class of The Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine. These students, each with their unique backgrounds, aspirations and perspectives, are not just pursuing their dreams of becoming physicians — they're helping to shape the future of medical education at Belmont University.  

From their first days of classes to their experiences in clinical rotations, we'll follow their triumphs, challenges and growth as they blaze the trail for future generations of Belmont-educated doctors. Their stories offer a window into the exciting world of medical education and the innovative approach of Belmont's newest college. 

Meet Katie Pursley, one of the trailblazing students in the inaugural Class of 2028 at Belmont University's Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine. With a background in clinical research and a passion for innovation, she exemplifies the forward-thinking spirit of Belmont's new medical program. 

Embracing the Opportunity to Shape Medical Education 

For Pursley, choosing Belmont wasn't just about pursuing a degree—it was about seizing a unique opportunity to shape the future of medical education. "The opportunity to attend a medical school that was just getting started is unmatched," she explained. "The blank canvas really drew me in as someone who finds a 'this is just the way we have always done it' mentality to be extremely limiting and constricting." 

Pursley's experience with building new programs extends beyond medicine. In college, she joined the women's rugby team in its second year as a varsity sport. "We got to build the team culture, write our names in the history books and create something that would last for generations," she recalled. "Building that legacy is something I can cherish forever and I look forward to doing the same thing here at Belmont." 

A Balanced Approach to Medical Education 

When it comes to managing the demands of medical school, Pursley offers a refreshing perspective. "I take self-care just as seriously—probably more seriously—than studying," she said. "The diminishing returns of studying for long hours at the expense of sleep, meals, exercise and downtime are not worth it." 

Her strategy involves flexibility in study scheduling combined with non-negotiable self-care practices. "I have a few self-care practices such as mindfulness, reading and consistent sleep times that are non-negotiables for me. This balanced approach challenges the conventional image of the overwhelmed medical student and offers a sustainable model for long-term success. 

Addressing Health Care Disparities 

Before medical school, Pursley worked as a clinical research coordinator, gaining valuable experience in patient interaction. Now, she's eager to expand her role in patient care. "I can't wait to start preceptorships," she said. "I previously worked as a clinical research coordinator and was able to interact with patients quite a lot in that setting, but I was very limited in what I could do with those patients. I cannot wait to be able to work with them more directly."  

Looking beyond her medical education, Pursley has set her sights on addressing critical issues in healthcare delivery. "I am mainly interested in seeing how we can better distribute healthcare to vulnerable populations and disenfranchised individuals.” Her interests span several areas, including pediatrics, healthcare for the uninsured and unhoused and healthcare for the LGBTQIA+ community. 

Goals for the Medical School Journey 

As she embarks on this four-year journey, Pursley has clear objectives in mind. "I hope to say that I received a comprehensive education, formed lifelong friendships and left my mark on this school," she shared. Her approach combines academic rigor with a commitment to personal development and community impact. 

While Pursley is deeply committed to her medical studies, she also maintains a well-rounded personality. In a lighthearted revelation, she shares, "I LOVE Taylor Swift and have a huge flag of her hanging in my bedroom!" This blend of serious academic pursuit and personal interests contributes to Pursley’s well-balanced approach to medical education. 

As Pursley begins her journey at Belmont University's Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine, she embodies the innovative spirit and holistic approach that the program aims to foster. Her commitment to balancing rigorous study with self-care, her passion for addressing healthcare disparities and her enthusiasm for shaping a new medical education paradigm make her an exemplary representative of the inaugural class. Pursley 's journey at Belmont promises not only to transform her into a skilled physician but also to contribute to the evolving landscape of medical education and healthcare delivery.