Former Concordia Athlete Pursues Medical Career

BRONXVILLE, N.Y. -- Yonkers native and former Concordia College softball star Daria Iazzetti-Falkowitz, who recently graduated from medical school, attributes much of her success in life to her experience as a student/athlete.

"Athletics was also important to me and the Athletics Department at Concordia was unlike anywhere else I had been," Iazzetti-Falkowitz said about her choice of Concordia, where she graduated from in 2006.  "The players from all the men and women’s teams were close knit. I’m happy to say that I went with my gut when I chose Concordia and I wasn't disappointed."

Daria, who graduated from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and works at Staten Island University Hospital, passed her medical boards and is currently a resident pursuing a career in emergency medicine. Her desire to pursue a medical career began at a very young age and grew when she volunteered at an ambulance corp as a teen.

"I’d like to do some international work in the future, and make a difference in countries that are not as fortunate as us in terms of medical care," she said. "I’d also like to possibly pursue a fellowship in toxicology and continue to challenge myself academically.

Iazzetti-Falkowitz's softball memories don't include scores and games won and lost, but the relationships she built that have lasted. she recalled the times she spent with the team traveling to away games and spring break in the Winnebago.

"Twelve hours with 15 girls in a mobile home is always interesting," Iazzetti-Falkowitz said. "My favorite memories all surround the softball team and the sorority that I was a part of. Both gave me a community to belong to. I made great friends and established myself with an amazing support system. I can’t imagine college without them."

Daria attributes the discipline of playing a sport while attending college as a motivator that helped her become a better student.

"I had to spend more time studying than most students, but I was okay with that," she said. "I wouldn’t change anything because it really helped me to build the time management skills and work ethic that has made me successful as a doctor."

And the recently certified Dr. Iazzetti-Falkowitz offered some sincere advice to college students.

"Treasure every moment in college," the young doctor said. "I look back on my memories playing softball now and I didn't realize at the time how precious the time was. And don't forget why you chose to go to college in the first place. Not everyone wants to be a doctor and that’s absolutely fine, but everyone goes to college to get an education and pursue a career that they are passionate about."

 

 

 

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