I.M. a Resident/Fellow: Jacob D. Hamilton, DO

Jacob D. Hamilton, DO 
Internal Medicine Residency
The University of Kansas, Kansas City, KS

In which residency or fellowship program are you currently in?

Currently, I am in the Internal Medicine Residency Program at The University of Kansas (KU) in Kansas City, Kansas (2023 to present).

Why did you choose internal medicine? If you’re in fellowship, why did you choose that subspecialty?

I was originally drawn to internal medicine for the breadth of systems that internal medicine physicians diagnose and manage. During medical school, physiology and pathology fascinated me most, and internal medicine offered the most longitudinal exposure to disease processes as they evolved over time. What ultimately solidified my choice, however, was the relationship between internal medicine physicians and their patients. I value being a patient’s physician—whether guiding them through a complex hospitalization filled with uncertainty or partnering with them in the outpatient setting as their primary care physician over many years.

What lesson(s) did you learn in residency or fellowship that will help you for the rest of your career?

Throughout residency, I have learned the importance of relying on others during both training and challenging moments. Medicine can be emotionally and physically demanding and recognizing that is essential. The ability to lean on mentors and colleagues has been a vital part of my growth. I deeply value my residency program for fostering an environment where support, mentorship, and openness are encouraged.

What are your plans for after residency or fellowship? What factors or advice from mentors contributed to your decision?

After completing my internal medicine residency, I will pursue a chief resident year at KU. I am excited for the opportunity to mentor residents and help further cultivate an environment grounded in support and collaboration. Following my chief year, I plan to apply to pulmonary and critical care fellowship. The combination of intensive care medicine and hands-on procedures, alongside pulmonary clinic and consultative work, has consistently drawn me to the field. It also helps that since medical school, the lungs have been my favorite organ!

At KU, I have been fortunate to work with outstanding mentors who not only encourage me to explore my interests but also provide individualized guidance tailored to my growth, helping to identify and strengthen my abilities, which has allowed me to strive to be the best physician I can be. 

How has being a member of ACP helped you in your professional life? What resources have been most helpful to you?

Like the role of mentors, having a strong professional organization is essential. ACP provides a broad network of physicians and mentors beyond one’s individual institution, offering exposure to diverse perspectives and access to valuable resources. I greatly enjoyed attending ACP’s annual Internal Medicine Meeting and would strongly recommend it to others. It is a well-organized event featuring a wide range of educational opportunities, from high-quality lectures to hands-on simulation experiences. Plus, the meetings are always located at fun, interesting locations!