The Art and Science of Becoming a Physician

John Panzone ’21, M.D., is an orthopedic surgery resident at the University of Rochester, preparing for a career in hand or spine surgery. His work reflects a core of his Le Moyne education: caring for the whole person.

He knows that no two patients are alike. Even with the same diagnosis, each person’s experience (and path forward) is different.

“People are not just X-rays,” he says.

Ellie Sommers ’22, M.D.  is preparing to begin her residency in orthopedic surgery, where she hopes to help patients regain movement and improve their quality of life. Her approach to medicine is grounded in both science and a deep understanding of the people she serves.

At Le Moyne, she developed not only the scientific knowledge needed for medical school, but also an appreciation for the human side of care. “Sometimes the art in medicine is lost,” she says. “Le Moyne gave me a perspective on the humanity that I carry with me every day.”

Matt Civilette ’18, M.D., is a flight surgeon with the U.S. Navy, responsible for ensuring pilots are medically ready to perform in high-stakes environments. His role blends medicine, leadership, and adaptability in a setting unlike any traditional clinical practice.

He credits his Le Moyne education with shaping how he approaches patient care: seeing each individual not just as a diagnosis, but as a whole person. That perspective guides him in every interaction, whether in the clinic or aboard an aircraft carrier.

Phung Tran ’12, D.O., is a family medicine physician and practice owner dedicated to helping patients live as fully and independently as possible. Her work is guided by a simple question: how can she best support each person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being?

She combines strong scientific training with careful listening and thoughtful care, recognizing that each patient brings a unique set of experiences and needs. “Success means caring for patients and restoring them to function,” she says.

As an interventional pain physician, Steve Siano ’15, M.D., focuses on helping patients manage pain and restore function without surgery. His work requires both clinical expertise and the ability to connect with patients in meaningful ways.

That connection often starts with a simple question—sometimes even about their favorite Shakespeare play. It’s a reflection of his Le Moyne education, where science and the humanities came together to shape his approach to care.

Your path to medicine can start here. Grounded in a Jesuit liberal arts education, Le Moyne will prepare you with the scientific knowledge, critical thinking, and compassion needed to care for the whole person.