 Alumni
Interviews:
Maryl Johnson, M.D.
Research is the heart of the matter
“The University of Iowa showed me there was more to being a medical doctor than simply a family physician.”
Maryl Johnson always knew she wanted to work in medicine. However, as a small girl growing up in rural Northwest Iowa, Johnson had little exposure to the possibilities within medical professions. It was not surprising Johnson aspired to be a family physician, the only medical profession she knew. Fortunately, Johnson attended a medical school that would open her eyes to opportunities other than family medicine. That school, the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, marked the beginning of Johnson’s career in clinical research.
“The University of Iowa showed me there was more to being a medical doctor than simply a family physician.”
While attending Iowa, a University recognized for research, Johnson soon developed a strong desire to learn more about the field of research. As a fellow at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Johnson encountered many diverse patients. One patient hospitalized for heart failure caught her attention. Heart transplant surgery soon became her fascination and Johnson was eager to learn more. She decided to pursue a career in cardiac transplant research based on her concern for transplant patients and background in clinical research.
As of July 2002, Johnson has been involved at the University of Wisconsin, Madison as a heart failure transplant cardiologist. She maintains a busy schedule including clinical practice with research and bedside teaching of residents and fellows. Her research has helped the medical community better understand heart transplant surgery in terms of transplant populations, patient outcomes, and the aftermath of the patient and donor following the transplant surgery.
Reflecting back on her experiences at Iowa, Johnson remembers each and every friend and mentor that originated from the University. “The Faculty,” she explains, “was extremely nurturing. They showed you the right doors to go through and slammed the right doors in your face when going the wrong way.” More than anything, Johnson appreciates the support the faculty provided and the opportunities they offered.
If it were not for the variety of medical specialty areas the University provides Johnson would never have been able to experience different aspects of medicine. Johnson has the University of Iowa to thank for exposing her to the vast opportunities available in medicine. |
view
read
alumni interviews
view
photo albums
Back
to Alumni Interviews Page