Integrating Faith into the Medical Field: DBU Alumna Chloe Harris

"Ultimately, my goal is to integrate my passion for medicine with my faith, bringing healing not only to bodies but also to souls. I aim to facilitate transformative experiences in the lives of those I serve, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in every interaction," says alumna Chloe Harris, who graduated summa cum laude from DBU in May 2022 with bachelor's degrees in biology and Spanish. During her time at DBU, Chloe was involved with Tri-Beta and Alpha Delta Kappa where she encountered life-long friends that continue to hold her accountable in her faith journey even after graduating from DBU.

Originally, Chloe planned to attend a large university known for its pre-med program, where she hoped to make a name for herself, but the Lord intervened with a different plan. Chloe's mother came across an advertisement for DBU which caused her to reconsider her decision. "Admittedly, my decision to enroll was largely based on the assumption that DBU would accept more of my transfer credits than other institutions. However, over three transformative years, God molded my heart and reshaped my priorities. I found myself compelled to shine the light of Jesus, a stark contrast to my previous pursuit of personal success." Chloe noted that DBU is more than just an academic institution, it is also a fertile ground for spiritual growth. Throughout her time on University Hill, she witnessed what it means to live out one's faith and she experienced the richness of a Gospel-centered community with other students and with faculty and staff.

Currently, Chloe is in her second semester of medical school at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. After graduation, she plans to pursue a medical residency in plastic surgery which has the potential to last five years. Chloe is seeking the Lord for patience in this season as she is eager to fulfill God's calling in her life. Her long-time goal consists of establishing a practice within the United States, while also dedicating time to participate in international missions. "In many countries, individuals with facial deformities face not only physical challenges but also social ostracization. I desire to play a role in reintegrating them into their communities, offering them a chance at a new life and sharing the Gospel and its message of hope and redemption that transcends physical restoration."

As Chloe transitioned into attending medical school, she looked back at the education she received in the pre-med program at DBU. "Now surrounded by peers from various renowned pre-med programs, I've noticed areas where DBU's curriculum delved deeper, giving me a competitive edge. It's a testament to the quality of education offered at DBU. If you're willing to invest the effort and dedication, the university equips you exceptionally well for the challenges ahead." Chloe has deep gratitude for the DBU faculty and staff and the major impact they had on her spiritual and professional life.

Amidst this season of waiting, she recognizes that her current surroundings are also a vast mission field. God presents opportunities to demonstrate the joy of the Lord every day, no matter where Chloe is. She is striving to make the most of the opportunities before her now, knowing that it lays a foundation for greater responsibility in the future. "I embrace this transformative process, knowing that true change occurs outside our comfort zones. With anticipation, I look forward to witnessing how God can work through me in this field to bring about healing and restoration."

Alongside attending medical school, Chloe is also planning for her upcoming marriage. Chloe met her fiancé, Lukas Bogden, in January 2021 during Organic Chemistry II on the DBU campus. Their friendship deepened throughout various science classes, Greek Life formals, and campus life events. Not long after becoming close friends, Chloe noticed Lukas' heart for God and began to see him in a new life, which led to them pursuing a relationship with one another. On May 17, 2023, they became engaged and attended pre-marital counseling at DBU shortly after. Chloe and Lukas are eager to use their marriage as a ministry opportunity.