Veterans Day Profile: Kyle Avery

Veterans Day honors those who have served in the United States military. In recognition of their commitment and sacrifice, the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix will share a few stories of medical students who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. military.

Meet Kyle Avery

After graduating from high school, Kyle Avery joined the U.S. Army as a medic, serving for six years before commissioning as an officer through the Health Professions Scholarship Program.

While in active duty, Avery earned his bachelor’s degree in health science at Purdue Global University. Later, he earned his master’s degree in biology at George Mason University.

Now a medical student at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, Avery will graduate from the MD/MPH program in May 2026.

Wanting to be part of something bigger than himself, Avery decided to serve in the Army; a period he said was great for learning life skills and developing leadership capabilities.

“The military instilled discipline in me, which is nice. As a medical student, you need it for studying and working hard,” Avery said.

Avery considered the transition between the military and medical school relatively smooth. For him, the first couple of years in medical school involved more didactics and less work, while his third and fourth years have felt more like work.

Through his time serving in the military, Avery developed resilience, responsibility and discipline — all of which have been helpful in his time as a medical student. Those formative years in service also shaped his view of medicine. Exposed to trauma and emergency care, he now understands the spectrum of medicine covers more than those two topics.

For fellow service members interested in pursuing medical school, Avery recommended understanding the sacrifices needed for the profession and to make sure they know they’re doing it for the right reasons.

“Do your research about which residencies are available in the military, their locations and how many slots are available,” Avery said. “This will effect you when you apply through their match.”