Brian Schroer MD, B.S. 2000

Cleveland Clinic

2000 Major: Evolutionary Anthropology and History

How has being an Evolutionary Anthropology graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"I was premed throughout my four years and primarily on the path towards getting a major in History. Then I learned that I would be able to get a second major in Evolutionary Anthropology. Learning about the biologic history of humans and at the same time learning about the cultural and military history of humans was a unique opportunity to understand where we came from and how we got to where we are today. The bonus of learning human and comparative anatomy before medical school was a huge advantage during medical school. When others were struggling to learn the language of anatomy, I was able to deepen and solidify my knowledge of human anatomy. Outside of medicine, the major has allowed me to follow future discoveries about the origins of humans without having the gap in knowledge about what was already known."

What advice would you give students in Duke's Evolutionary Anthropology programs? 

"The focus of your undergraduate studies give you the base knowledge of science both facts and techniques that you will need to use throughout your professional career. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn that base while also taking classes that are simply fascinating. Also, take the chance to get to know your professors as people outside of class. Do this by attending office hours and asking for help or just to talk."

Brian Schroer MD