IUPUI—an ‘eight-year plan’ bears fruit on Mother’s Day

By Mary Hardin

In the parlance of some medical students, Hawkins was on the “eight-year plan” when she began her studies at the IU School of Medicine in 1994, meaning she had her sights set on obtaining doctorates that would allow her to pursue research as well as practice medicine. In March 2001, the Bicknell native earned her Ph.D in biochemistry and molecular biology.

On Sunday, May 12—Mother’s Day—Hawkins was among the 272 IUSM students who receive their medical degrees at the RCA Dome. They joined in the processional along with all IUPUI graduates on a rainy afternoon.

Immediately following that ceremony and with their families and friends looking on, the Class of 2002 took the Physician Oath, a time-honored tradition in which new physicians pledge to use their knowledge and act compassionately on behalf of their patients.

There will be little respite for most of the newly graduated physicians as they prepare for further training and internships. Last March, members of the Class of 2002 were matched to residency programs in Indiana and 34 other states, which they will begin this month and throughout the summer.

For Hawkins, that will mean she and her husband, Britt Hutchinson, will pack their bags and head for Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, where she begins a residency in obstetrics and gynecology.