Third-year UF College of Medicine student William Freeman counts receiving the Cullen W. Banks, MD, Scholarship as one of his proudest achievements. The Lake Mary native finds medicine fascinating and frequently visits a Gainesville elementary school to teach the next generation about science. When Freeman isn’t studying or teaching, he’s playing pieces from his favorite composers, Chopin and Liszt, on piano. Doctor Gator asked Freeman a few questions about his experiences at the UF College of Medicine, his passions and his goals for the future.

Doctor Gator: How has the life of Dr. Banks, the first black physician to have full privileges at Alachua County General Hospital, served as inspiration for your own future goals?

Freeman: Whenever I get the chance to sit down with Ms. LaKay Banks, it amazes me to hear all of the accomplishments her late husband was able to achieve in a time when many African Americans faced a great deal of oppression. His drive, intelligence and sheer grit to accomplish all that he was able to achieve is a constant reminder to me, as a Banks scholar, to work my absolute hardest and to set big goals for myself.

Doctor Gator: What do you find most fascinating about medicine?

Freeman: I cannot remember a time when I didn’t want to go into medicine. The literal life-altering breakthroughs and the ability to directly affect the life of your patient, as well as the family, friends and loved ones of your patient, is what I find most fascinating and rewarding about medicine.