Opinion: ‘I’m pretty much all in’: An interview with a woman starting medical residency at almost 73

Dawn Zuidgeest-Craft began her medical residency at nearly 73 years old, a decision she described as "pretty much all in." Zuidgeest-Craft's journey into medicine began later in life, inspired in part by a TikTok video featuring a 72-year-old woman who had completed medical school and matched into residency. This encounter prompted Zuidgeest-Craft to pursue her own medical aspirations, leading her to enroll in medical school at an age when many individuals are already retired. The interview, conducted by Torie Bosch for the "First Opinion Podcast," explored Zuidgeest-Craft's motivations and experiences with this unconventional career path. Her story highlights a growing trend of individuals pursuing second careers or returning to education later in life, challenging traditional timelines for professional development and personal achievement. Zuidgeest-Craft's commitment to medicine at an advanced age underscores a dedication to lifelong learning and a pursuit of fulfilling career goals regardless of conventional age barriers.