MONMOUTH, ILLINOIS (November 17, 2025) — For Monmouth College senior Isaac Guadarrama, the path to medicine has always been about more than science, it's about people. Originally a science education major, Guadarrama entered college with a passion for mentoring and guiding others. But as he explored how science could intersect with service, he discovered that biochemistry provided the foundation he needed to pursue his growing interest in medicine.
"I loved mentoring and teaching others, and I've always had a passion for science," said Guadarrama, who's from Beardstown, Illinois.
"Over time, as I started considering a career in medicine, I realized that biochemistry aligned more closely with my professional goals."
That shift was shaped by key influences at Monmouth, especially his adviser, chemistry professor Laura Moore.
"She was the first person to suggest that I consider medicine during my freshman year," he recalled.
"Her support really helped me believe I could pursue it."
In addition to his academic growth, Guadarrama found purpose in making science accessible to others.
During the 2024-25 academic year, he participated in the STEM Ambassador course, which emphasized outreach and engagement with younger students. Alongside a few classmates, Guadarrama participated in an outreach program, visiting rural Title 1 middle schools in the region to teach lessons on preventative health, including interactive demonstrations.
"We wanted to show students that health and science are for everyone," he explained.
"That experience reminded me how powerful education can be in shaping healthier communities."
Mentorship as a calling
Mentorship has been at the heart of Guadarrama's Monmouth experience. He has served as a mentor in the First-Year Experience program since his sophomore year and as a lead mentor for the past two years.
"I started mentoring because I knew I enjoyed helping others and the transfer of knowledge," he said.
"It's been incredibly rewarding to guide new students as they adjust to college life and find their place at Monmouth."Guadarrama also served as a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) mentor, further combining his interests in science and mentorship by helping peers develop their research and academic skills.
"Being an HHMI mentor taught me the importance of collaboration and how leadership in science often means creating opportunities for others to grow," he said.
Guadarrama's passion for medicine was strengthened through hands-on experience at the University of Iowa, where he was selected for two competitive summer programs. In 2024, he joined the Summer Health Professions Education Program, attending lectures, shadowing physicians, and participating in simulations.
"The program introduced me to mentors who encouraged me to pursue research," he said.
Those connections led to his participation in the Beginning/Early-Stage Translational research program in 2025, where he conducted studies on cardiometabolic disease in young adults.
"Through that experience, I learned how scientific research connects to patient outcomes and how early prevention can improve long-term health," he said.
"Both programs gave me a clearer sense of my purpose in medicine and deepened my commitment to serving others through science and care."
In addition to his academic and research achievements, Guadarrama has been an active member of the Scots Student Senate, Pre-Health Society, American Chemical Society, the Mortar Board and Tri Beta honor societies, and the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, which he served as president. Balancing leadership, research and academics, he said, comes down to time management and perspective.
"I've learned how to prioritize my responsibilities and make time for what matters most," he said. "Having friends who also value academics made it easier to stay focused and still enjoy everything college has to offer."Guadarrama applied to medical school during the spring of his junior year, choosing not to take a gap year.
"The application cycle is still ongoing, but I've received seven interview invitations so far," he said. "I feel confident that I'll find the right fit and am excited to take the next step toward becoming a physician."
As he reflects on his years at Monmouth, Guadarrama says what stands out most are the relationships and moments shared with others.
"Whether it was playing poker late at night or watching movies in Peterson Theater, those are the memories that make Monmouth special," he said. "It's not a flashy school, but every student and every faculty and staff member truly cares and embodies the college's mission."
That sense of belonging, he said, is what has shaped him most.
"Monmouth has given me the tools, confidence and community to pursue my goals," he said.
"I feel ready for what's next and grateful for how far I've come."
