This summer, college students Olivia Orlowski and Topanga Braith gained hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of emergency medicine, working in Lakewood’s Emergency Room and Ambulance Department. Both aspiring physicians, the two found the experience not only beneficial but also affirming in their career paths.
Olivia, a neuroscience major with a philosophy minor at the University of St. Thomas, has long dreamed of pursuing medicine. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child, she grew up experiencing the hospital environment firsthand. “I was always fascinated by medicine,” she said. “Having great nurses and doctors during my own hospital stays made me feel calm and supported. And I want to be able to do that for others.”
For Topanga, a biochemistry student at the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University, working in the ER solidified her desire to pursue medical school.
“When I was in 10th grade, I knew I wanted to be in healthcare, but I wasn’t sure what path,” she explained. “After becoming an EMT and working in the ER [at Lakewood], I realized this is exactly what I want to do.”
Both students praised the collaborative atmosphere at Lakewood, where staff and providers were eager to teach. Dr. Michael Hudalla and Joshua Klous, FNP, often took time to explain cases and walk them through diagnoses, while longtime paramedics like Scott Braith (Topanga’s dad) and Sandy Porter shared decades of ambulance experience.
“Everyone is so encouraging,” said Olivia. “They push you to try new procedures. Ask questions and get involved.”
The students also noted the benefits of training in a rural setting like Lakewood. “In a smaller hospital, you see everything,” Topanga said, adding. “You get to follow patients from the ambulance to the ER and the providers include you in the process. It makes learning personal and meaningful.”
Both young women are on the pre-med track and hope to attend medical school at the University of Minnesota–Duluth. And both expressed a strong desire to return to Lakewood someday.
“It’s like a family here,” said Olivia. “People know your story and want you to succeed. I would love to come back after med school.”
Their experiences left a huge impression on Dr. Kevin Wentworth, a Lakewood emergency medicine physician who mentored them.
“I love having students here,” he said. “These two are highly motivated and top-notch, and that makes it fun. I’d love to see them come back one day — by then I’ll be old, and I’ll be grateful to have them as my doctors,” he said.
For Olivia and Topanga, the adrenaline, teamwork and compassion of emergency medicine have confirmed what they always thought: their future lies in caring for patients. And for Lakewood, their journey is a reminder of the vital role rural healthcare plays in inspiring the next generation of physicians.