Student Spotlight: James Feng, MD'26/MPH'25

Bridging Medicine and Public Health: James Feng’s Path to Systemic Change

Before arriving at Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine, James Feng worked at the National Cancer Institute just outside Washington, D.C. “I was there during a time when medicine, public health, and politics were at the forefront of national discussions during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic,” James recalls. As he began his medical studies, James grew increasingly aware of the complexities within the U.S. healthcare system, prompting him to pursue an MPH through Dartmouth’s accelerated residential program as part of the MD/MPH dual degree track.

“I realized I didn’t know enough about the system I would eventually practice in. That felt like a disservice to both myself and my future patients. While I was gaining the clinical skills necessary to care for patients, I wanted to understand how larger systemic factors—such as policy, access, and healthcare infrastructure—shaped patient care and outcomes.”

James appreciates the breadth of Dartmouth’s generalist MPH curriculum, which allows students to explore a range of public health topics—from healthcare delivery and quality improvement to biostatistics, leadership, and global health. “The flexibility has been invaluable. It’s provided me with a solid foundation in multiple areas while also allowing me to tailor my education to my specific interests in clinical medicine,” he reflects.

After graduation, James plans to integrate public health principles into his medical career. “While medicine teaches us how to treat individuals, public health has broadened my perspective on improving healthcare systems and addressing disparities on a larger scale. I intend to apply these principles in my medical practice, particularly in patient advocacy, preventive care, expanding access to underserved populations, and quality improvement.” James is also eager to continue research in areas that bridge clinical practice with foundational science, data analysis, and epidemiology to enhance patient care. To future cohorts, James offers this advice: “Stay open to new experiences. Take full advantage of Dartmouth’s close-knit community and don’t hesitate to carve your own unique, non-traditional path.” He points to some of his most valuable experiences that came from unexpected pathways – including a research project in a new field, a trusted mentor, and his MD/MPH dual degree. James has made the most of his time at Dartmouth by embracing everything the community has to offer, including a community service initiative with Visions for Creative Housing Solutions, an Upper Valley organization that provides services and housing for adults with developmental disabilities.

Outside of the classroom, James enjoys exploring the outdoors—whether hiking,  paddle-boarding on the Connecticut River, or visiting local farmers’ markets. “One of my most memorable experiences from this past year was stargazing at Mountain View Farm. Away from city lights, the night sky was breathtaking and served as a perfect reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty of this place. Dartmouth’s unique location makes it easy to access incredible spots, offering a great way to recharge and take a break from work and academics.”

Written by: Mia Soucy

POSTED 2/21/2025 AT 09:01 AM IN ##studentspotlight ##mph ##md