Matt Wixson, MD: Mentoring the next generation of physicians

Dr. Wixson’s Michigan Answer: As a native Michigander, training and now working at the preeminent academic medical center that provides care for my family and friends is a dream come true. 

Matt Wixson (he/him), MD, is a Clinical Associate Professor of Anesthesiology and the Associate Chair for Cultural Innovation within the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Michigan Medical School. He also serves as the Assistant Dean for Medical School Pathways, where he focuses on his professional passion for mentoring and shaping the next generation of physicians. In addition to providing clinical care, Dr. Wixson is dedicated to advancing health for all by helping learners at every stage of the medical path define and pursue their own passions. Outside of his clinical and administrative roles, he is a native Michigander who enjoys attending Michigan sporting events and renovating homes with his family. 

What appealed to you about coming to the University of Michigan Medical School for a faculty appointment? 

The bold mission — outstanding clinical care, cutting-edge education and life-changing research — spoke to the impact I want to have on the world. To advance health for all alongside such talented people is a joy.

What drew you to a career in your specialty and what advice do you have for medical students when it comes to selecting a specialty?  

Being an anesthesiologist is the most fun job in the world — caring for patients during a challenging time is an honor I do not take lightly. Students should follow their passion when selecting a specialty — find the intersection of your natural curiosity, the patient population you are drawn to care for and the impact you want to make in individual lives. And remember that your specialty is just part of your identity — it is not the sum total of who you are! 

We encourage our medical students to pursue their passions while in medical school — what do you see as your professional passions, how are you able to pursue those while working at Michigan Medicine, and why is that important to you? 

My professional passion (besides caring for patients) is mentoring and shaping the next generation of physicians. I truly believe that medicine is calling, and the ability to meet students where they are is meaningful. 

What do you see is your overall purpose/mission when it comes to shaping future physician leaders?

In my work as Assistant Dean for Medical School Pathways, I get to think about and work with learners all along the path to medicine. From helping run high school programs to working with our medical students, it is incredibly fulfilling to help them define their passion areas and run toward them.

What aspect(s) of the current Michigan Medical School curriculum do you wish you had had access to during your training and why?   

The one-year pre-clinical experience is an incredible opportunity. Though it’s busy and intense, it then creates space for exploration in the Branches. That unique opportunity to lean into areas of interest would have been a great experience.

What do you enjoy about mentoring students? 

I learn something from every interaction I have with the students at Michigan. Their curiosity, unique lived experiences and willingness to share knowledge astounds me all the time. 

What is the culture like at Michigan Medicine and how are medical students able to engage in that culture?

We have a culture that is welcoming, inclusive and inspires hard work. Medical students are co-collaborators in that culture building, by continually asking the hard questions about the “why” in patient care.

What advice do you have for prospective students about the process of applying to and/or attending medical school?

Spend time figuring out your “why” — what is driving you toward a career in medicine. Every person has a unique and different motivation — we want to hear that! Seek experiences to learn and serve others that are aligned with your passion and know that you are on a journey. Don’t compare yourself to others — be proud of your own story! 

What do you like to do outside of work/around Ann Arbor for your well-being?

Ann Arbor is an awesome place to live and work. My family and I love attending Michigan sporting events of all kind, as well as spending time outside. We have also gut renovated four homes in a 10-year time period, so learning about function and design is a passion area as well!