Biology

Cody Koch, M.D., Ph.D.

Undergraduate Education: Drake University 2000, B.S. Biology and Masters of Public Administration

Medical Education: M.D., Ph.D. Medical Scientist Training Program (Combined MD/PhD program) Mayo Clinic Graduate and Medical School

Additional Training: Advanced fellowship through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Washington in Seattle.

Current Occupation(s): Plastic Surgeon

Location: Partner, Koch Facial Plastic Surgery and Spa, West Des Moines, IA

How Drake prepared you for a career in medicine?

Drake allowed me to pursue a broad based education both inside and outside the classroom.  In my opinion, outside the classroom is more important.  I was able to be involved in a diverse array of activities from student government, football, Greek system among many others.  Those experiences teach real world skills in interacting with a variety of different people and groups. 

Additionally, I was able to interact with my professors on an individual level.  These same professors supported me as I applied to internships and eventually medical school.  They helped me to pursue individualized learning experiences that were a vital part of my education and looked upon favorably by admissions committees  

Why did you want to join the Drake Alumni Physicians Board?

I want the opportunity to try and share my experiences so that others that are currently in the same place I once was can learn from those same experiences and avoid the mistakes I made

What is one piece of advice you would give like to give Drake pre-med students about a career in medicine?

Make yourself unique.  Admissions committees see hundreds if not thousands of applications from student who have excellent grades and test scores.  May yourself stand out.  They do not see lots of applications from someone who is an opera singer, a collegiate athlete, who speaks 5 languages or spent time in the Amazon with indigenous tribes.  These experiences get you and interview as well as what you talk about during an interview and makes you memorable.