Veterans Day Profile: Kate Goren

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 Kate Goren

Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kate Goren is an active-duty United States Air Force veteran. She is trained as an airborne Arabic linguist and served for seven years while stationed in Omaha, Nebraska, and Mildenhall, United Kingdom.

Goren joined the military with the goal of creating a stable life and building a strong foundation of discipline and opportunity. During her time in the military, she completed her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences at Arizona State University. 

“My service allowed me to pursue an education, travel and form lifelong friendships,” Goren said. “The transition out of the military was challenging after spending my entire adult life in that environment, but the support of my family and friends made the process easier.”

Initially, Goren planned to attend veterinary school and transitioned into civilian life through an internship at a veterinary hospital. She quickly realized, however, that her true passion was to pursue a career in medicine and serve patients.

Goren’s military experiences helped broaden her worldview, deepened her cultural understanding and helped shape her into a better person, which she said will help her become a better medical student and future physician. 

“The military taught me resilience and adaptability that I did not know I was capable of,” she said. “These qualities have prepared me not only for the mental and academic rigor of medical school, but for every aspect of life.”

If fellow service members want to take the same leap she did, Goren advises them to just trust their instincts and be confident in their skillset.

“Military service provides a unique perspective and an invaluable set of experiences, and it is important to use them to your advantage,” Goren said. “You will find fellow veterans along the way and a strong network of support. You have already faced and overcome incredible challenges in the service, and you can absolutely conquer this one, too.”