From Patient to Medical School: Cancer Diagnosis Sparks Alumnus’ Passion for Medicine

Like many undergraduate students, Stephen Mariano Lancia, Jr., ’22, transferred to Florida Atlantic University as a junior without a specific idea about what he wanted to study. Just as he was settling into his first semester on the Boca Raton campus, Lancia received unimaginable news — he had been diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. But there was a silver lining to the devastating diagnosis. On his path to recovery, he discovered his calling.  

“During my chemotherapy treatment, I found my passion for medicine and decided to pursue a career as a physician,” shared Lancia. “Once I finished my treatment and I was cleared to return to school, I chose Biological Sciences as my major and began my journey into medicine.”  

While Lancia had set his sights on becoming a doctor, upon his return to campus, he realized he had no idea how to set a course to medical school. He soon found his way to the Schmidt College of Science’s Office of Pre Health-Professions and Continuing Education, and to Director Gina Fourreau Jones and Academic Advisor Ana Botero.  

“Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Botero guided me step-by-step throughout my journey to medical school,” stated Lancia. “Talking to them and hearing them both tell me that I could become a doctor was the confidence I needed to follow my dream. I am so grateful for them, and I owe much of my success to their passion for helping students.”  

In addition to their emotional support, Lancia expressed how many resources the Office of Pre-Health Professions provided him with. From enrolling in the correct classes, finding volunteer and shadowing opportunities, practicing interview skills, and preparing for committee reviews, Lancia was well-prepared for medical school.   

“When I was applying to medical schools, FAU’s Pre-Health Office was instrumental throughout the process,” recalled Lancia. “I highly recommend that anyone who plans to apply to medical school — or any post-graduate health program — should use the Office of Pre-Health Professions and its resources. They really helped me to focus on the skills I needed to succeed.”  

Outside of his studies, Lancia found time to serve as a member of the Florida Atlantic chapter of the American Medical Student Association, as well as volunteer in the community at Diggy’s Docking Station. The non-profit organization is a family-run pediatric cancer foundation that assists families with auxiliary services.

All of Lancia’s hard work paid off. On August 2, he returned to Florida Atlantic and joined his fellow Class of 2028 students for the Schmidt College of Medicine’s White Coat Ceremony. In addition, Lancia was invited to speak during the Schmidt College of Medicine’s annual White Coats-4-Care event on July 31. The evening brought together medical students, university leadership, faculty, generous donors, and the South Florida community for a night of celebration.  

“I want to become a doctor who inspires, impacts, and truly makes a difference in my patients' lives,” stated Lancia. “I aspire to become a doctor that my patients can trust to provide them with comprehensive and compassionate health care, as well as someone who advocates for them.”