Throughout their journeys in the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program at PCOM South Georgia, John Buford, DO ’26, and Kylie Parrish, DO ’26, have navigated the uncertainties together.
As “The Final Countdown” played in the background and a tornado watch loomed outside, the couple received news that would define their next chapter: both had matched at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, South Carolina. Just days later, they became engaged, further solidifying their shared future.
“While it was a little sad to let go of the idea of other residencies on our lists, I was happy and relieved that John and I matched together,” Parrish said.
Following graduation and residency, Buford hopes to practice in an outpatient family medicine setting. “Family medicine allows me to care for patients across the lifespan, from infants to the elderly,” he said. “It also offers exposure to a wide range of conditions—from diabetes to sleep apnea—and includes procedures such as skin biopsies and joint injections.”
Parrish’s aspirations take a different path, as she plans to pursue a career in interventional cardiology.
Although their long-term plans are still evolving, both Buford and Parrish share a strong commitment to serving rural and underserved communities in the Southeast, but for now, are focused on the immediate journey ahead, feeling grateful to be taking that next step together.
Reflecting on their experiences, both offer similar advice to incoming students: prioritize balance. “Medical school is demanding,” Parrish said, “but taking time to recharge and staying connected to what you enjoy is essential.” Buford echoed this sentiment, adding, “Budget your time so you can still enjoy life during medical school.”
In 2019, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), a premier osteopathic medical school established in 1899, extended its commitment to the Southeast by establishing PCOM South Georgia. An additional teaching location in Moultrie, Georgia, PCOM South Georgia offers both a full, four-year medical program leading to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. PCOM is a private, not-for-profit institution that trains professionals in the health and behavioral sciences fields. Joining PCOM Georgia in Suwanee in helping to meet the healthcare needs of the state, PCOM South Georgia focuses on educating physicians for the region. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 229-668-3110.
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Gabrielle DePietro
Associate Director, News and Media Relations
Office of Marketing and Communications
Email: gabrielde2@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6304
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