In this flagship series, we’re highlighting graduating University of Iowa students who have woven writing into their academic journeys across disciplines. Through these interviews, these exceptional students show how pairing writing with any major strengthens thinking, communication, and impact. At Iowa, our commitment to writing across the disciplines sets us apart, ensuring students in every field can develop this essential skill and carry it into whatever comes next! 

Today we are featuring Nathaniel Mullin, a doctor graduating with a MD and PhD from the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics (MSTP) in the Graduate College.

Hello Nathaniel! Tell us a little about yourself.
I am interested in how how the study of genetic variants and their consequences can improve our understanding and treatment of genetic diseases. My graduate school work focused on inherited diseases of the retina. After graduation, I will be starting a medical residency in pediatrics and medical genetics at Boston Children's Hospital.

In a few short sentences, tell us how writing impacted your time here at the University of Iowa?
Written communication is so important in both medicine and science. Being able to coherently document your ideas and what you have done is essential to how we share information. I have been very fortunate to have had many great teachers who taught me how to write in ways that were new to me such as in grant proposals or in the clinical setting.

What was one of your favorite classes or activities related to writing?
My favorite activity was the MSTP Grantwriting course, which was my first introduction to putting together NIH-style grant proposals.

What advice would you give to incoming students about writing at Iowa?
Seek out support and guidance outside of your program or department (maybe even on the other side of the river!). There is always room to make any writing project even better, and most people are more than happy to help.

What are your plans for post-graduation? Any projects, continued studies, or exciting work news we can share??
I will be starting my residency in Pediatrics and Medical Genetics at Boston Children's Hospital this Summer.