Philanthropy in Action: Supporting Nathan Hochstein’s Medical Aspirations at UNL

Nathan Hochstein is a second-year student with junior standing at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL). A native of Seward, he chose UNL based on its esteemed academic standards, the scholarships awarded to him and the vibrant Catholic community at the Newman Center.

From an early age, Hochstein had a clear aspiration to pursue a career in medicine. After completing pre-med and pre-diabetes classes he is now studying nutrition science. Coming from a sizable family with limited financial means to support his collegiate endeavors, Hochstein relies on the generosity of donors. This support is instrumental in affording him the time required to dedicate himself to academic pursuits and extracurricular activities.

Characterized by his affinity for the outdoors, Hochstein aspires to specialize in either sports orthopedics or rheumatology upon graduation. “I’ve always known that whatever I do, I want to end up in a career where I’m helping people maintain an active lifestyle,” he said. His overarching goal is to contribute to the preservation of individuals’ mobility and active lifestyles, making a positive impact on their overall well-being.

Thanks to the financial assistance provided by donors, Hochstein could dedicate his attention early in his collegiate journey to securing an internship that aligns with his values. Hochstein is an active participant in the Future Healers Honors Cohort at UNL, an exclusive experiential learning track accessible through a competitive application process. As part of this program, he had the privilege of connecting with an innovative startup called Wound Pic.

“Wound Pic is going to be an app where you can scan nonhealing wounds like a diabetic ulcer, and that will send information to a cloud where it can give measurements based on diameter, depth and different textures within the wound. It will then use that as a process of communicating with physicians,” Hochstein said. This venture has evoked a sense of purpose from Hochstein, who acknowledges that such opportunities may not have materialized without the crucial support from alumni.

In addition, Hochstein has had the privilege of participating in workshops and seminars facilitated by his honors cohort. These sessions are specifically tailored to provide valuable insights and guidance to undergraduate students pursuing a premedical track, aiming to enhance their comprehension of the intricacies involved in the medical school application process.

Hochstein expresses profound gratitude for the financial support extended to him by both university donors and alumni. He advocates for the importance of alumni, who have successfully established themselves in their respective careers, contributing to the university’s philanthropic initiatives. “I think that finances making someone pursuing their dreams impossible is heartbreaking,” he said. “And if I could do anything to change that, I would.”

Hochstein’s journey at UNL stands as a testament to the power of philanthropy as he navigates his academic and career pursuits with unwavering determination. His gratitude toward donors and alumni is not only a personal acknowledgment but also a call to action, emphasizing the vital role financial support plays in enabling students to aspire toward their dreams. Hochstein continues to excel in his studies, engage in innovative projects and contribute to the Future Healers Honors Cohort. And his story continues to be a testament to the impact of community support on individual success.