White Coat Profile: Marcus Orzabal

The White Coat Ceremony marks the first time a medical student will don his or her white coat, the defining symbol of a physician. The coat bestows a great honor on each student, and with it comes a responsibility to uphold the trust of every patient they will encounter. The Class of 2027 will receive their white coats on July 14 during a ceremony that begins at 3:30 p.m. in the West Ballroom of the Phoenix Convention Center downtown.

Meet Marcus Orzabal

Marcus Orzabal is originally from College Station, TX, where he spent the first 26 years of his life. Following in the footsteps of his family, he attended Texas A&M University for his BS in chemistry. He also obtained his PhD in biomedical sciences from there.

When Orzabal began his undergrad degree, he planned on pursuing a career in engineering; but as his studies and research work progressed, he discovered he had a passion for medicine.

Orzabal credits his family — including his two younger sisters, Gabbi and Christina — his partner, Matt, and his friends as being his biggest supporters.

Path toward Medicine

What was the spark that led you to become a physician?

I first became interested in medicine while conducting research as an undergraduate. I studied how alcohol impacts fetal development at the physiological level. Seeing the connection between basic science research and the clinical outcomes made me want to invest in learning more about medicine.

As a scientist, it is my hope that I can use my research skills to develop new medical technologies and treatments for the future. 

Did you do any volunteering in health fields prior to medical school?

After finding that enthusiasm for medicine, I took up a volunteer position at a local hospital that offered different types of physical therapies. I was able to work with patients of all ages and was able to follow them throughout their recovery process. Getting to know the patients and be a part of their health journey was extremely rewarding and further drove my interest in becoming a physician. 

The College of Medicine – Phoenix

Why did you choose the College of Medicine – Phoenix?

I was first intrigued by the College of Medicine – Phoenix’s innovative curriculum and the focus on research in medicine. After I came for the interview, I was pleasantly surprised by how involved the administration was and how much they cared about the students. I felt like the College of Medicine – Phoenix would give me the most support and opportunities on my medical journey. 

What excites you most about beginning medical school?

I am most excited to continue learning about my favorite subject, the human body, but I am also excited to get to know all my new classmates and friends. I love to meet new people, and I could not imagine having any other career except medicine. 

Significance of the White Coat

What does the white coat mean to you?

The white coat means a commitment to learning and using our knowledge to serve our communities. It also means being an advocate for those in need and supporting people through some of the most difficult times in their lives.