Medical Sciences to Global Health: Payton Thompson ’25

Roughly one year out of the Upper School Medical Sciences Program at Shorecrest, Payton Thompson '25 was one of 10 students accepted into a global health immersion program in Cape Town, South Africa. Through the iXperience program, Payton had the opportunity to study infectious disease, clinical diagnostics, low-resource innovation and more during the in-depth three-week immersion. "One of the most unforgettable aspects was shadowing brilliant orthopedic and spinal surgeons, observing complex procedures up close in the operating room," said Payton.

Payton made such an impression on the program directors, she was offered a position as a business developer to help launch and expand their pre-med program tracks. 

Now a second year student at the University of Colorado Boulder, Payton is double majoring in integrative physiology and public health - pursuing her passion for medical sciences which began during her time at Shorecrest in The Peck Center for Medical Sciences. According to Payton, the emphasis on analytical writing, discussion-based learning, and foundational sciences made the transition to college-level coursework seamless. “Beyond academics, Shorecrest taught me how to ask insightful questions and collaborate effectively with peers and mentors," shared Payton. 

While her college coursework demands a lot of her time and attention, Payton has been able to make time to experience CU Boulder outside of the classroom enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, as well as spending time with her Chi Omega sorority sisters.

To current Shorecrest students, she shared, "Never be afraid to ask for help when you need it. The Shorecrest community is filled with people who genuinely want to see you succeed, so make the most of that incredible support network while you have it.”

Payton is one of many Shorecrest Alumni with a wonderful story to share. Alumni Spotlights reflect Chargers in all phases of their lives and careers after Shorecrest. If you have a Shorecrest Alumni story to share, please contact Samantha Cleveland at [email protected].