Pediatrician Scott M. Spicer '01 wants to encourage students to consider St. Lawrence if they want to go on to medical school. He should know. He credits the opportunities he had as an undergraduate with preparing him for medical school and his career as a doctor.

"There are so many opportunities for students at St. Lawrence," the biology major says. "I was definitely prepared for both medical school and for my career, and the opportunity to conduct an honors research project with Prof. David Hornung was especially rewarding. By working as a first responder on campus, I was able to help people and gain even more experience. St. Lawrence was a good match for me. Students are encouraged to explore what they can do, and they get the support they need to achieve great things. A lot of my friends who went there are doing well in their chosen fields, too."

Spicer grew up just a few miles from Canton. While an undergraduate, he was awarded a University Fellowship, which allowed him to pursue independent study with a professor during the summer. In addition, Spicer served as a member of the Potsdam, Canton and Colton volunteer fire departments and rescue squads, and was a member of the University's First Response Team. He was elected to Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) leadership honorary and Phi Beta Kappa, and was a Resident Assistant and member of the Pep Band. He earned his medical degree at State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, and completed his pediatric residency at Geisinger Medical Center. Spicer is a member of the medical staff at Canton-Potsdam Hospital, about 11 miles from his alma mater.

Spicer adds that he's especially happy that he was able to return to the area to practice, because it's what he always wanted to do. "I wanted to come back to the area where I grew up," he says. "I love the community and the environment – I love the winters!"