For Galen Daniels, wanting to return to his hometown of Moulton after college was never in question. His passion for science, medicine and rural Iowa go hand-in–hand. While still in high school at Moulton-Udell, Galen developed a love for learning and a passion for science. Though neither parent has a college degree, they both supported Galen and made higher education a top priority. However, it was not until he attended Indian Hills Community College that he was encouraged to continue his education and pursue his dream of practicing medicine.

Galen completed his AA/AS at Indian Hills and went on to get a BS in Biology from Simpson College and a MS in Physician Assistant Studies from Des Moines University. Additional support for his education came in the form of a Laboratory Control Ltd. Health Career Scholarship. The LCL Scholarship is given to recipients that express a desire to practice in Southeast Iowa. When Galen was asked why he chose to return to his hometown he responded, “I love rural Iowa. The changing seasons, the people-it’s beautiful. I knew I wanted to live in rural Iowa, but I also wanted to practice here. I wanted to give back to the community that I grew up in and take care of the people I know and care about.”

Galen has been a Certified Physician’s Assistant at South Central Iowa Medical Clinic in Corydon since January, 2012. He truly enjoys seeing people he knows and taking care of the children of his classmates…”I have always felt my purpose in life was to help others.”  When questioned about what advice he would give to future scholarship applicants, Galen answered simply, “… find what truly makes them happy; a job that they enjoy so much that it doesn’t even seem like work. I would also urge the scholarship recipients to take the time to appreciate the world around them, and in particular, those who have helped them along their journey thus far.”  Great advice indeed.

Click here for more information on the Laboratory Control Ltd. Health Career Scholarship.