Future Alumni

Mackenzie Peeke, MD Class of 2028

Hometown: Yorktown, Virginia

Undergraduate University: William & Mary

Undergraduate Graduation Year: 2022

Undergraduate Major: Sociology with a concentration in health, medicine, and well-being

Graduate University: Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University

Graduate Degree: Biomedical Sciences - Medical

Graduate Year: 2024

Biography

Mackenzie Peeke is a member of the MD Class of 2028 from Yorktown, VA. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a concentration in health, medicine, and well-being and a minor in Psychology from William & Mary in 2022. During college and her first gap year, she worked as an EMT in Virginia Beach, gaining firsthand experience in emergency medicine and community care. In 2024, she completed the EVMS Medical Master’s program, further preparing for her medical education. At EVMS, Mackenzie is involved in the HOPES Free Clinic, student government, and research on healthcare disparities. She has a strong interest in pursuing a fellowship in global health and hopes to join a nonprofit medical organization in her future career.

Why did you choose EVMS at ODU?

I chose EVMS because of its deep connection to the Hampton Roads community and its emphasis on learning through service. As a military brat, I lived in both Hampton and Yorktown, spent many weekends in Virginia Beach playing soccer, and later attended William & Mary for my undergraduate degree—I strongly identify with the Hampton Roads area. The opportunity to care for patients at the HOPES Free Clinic and to work alongside faculty committed to addressing health disparities closely aligned with my goals as a future physician interested in nonprofit medicine. I wanted to train in a place where I could grow clinically while also engaging directly with the community I serve.

Why did you decide to go into the medical and health professions field?

Both of my parents built careers centered on service—my father in the military and my mother as a nurse. From an early age, I learned the values of duty, compassion, and service to others, which grew into a passion for caring for underserved communities. My mother’s love for her profession made her a tremendous role model and inspired me to explore medicine; because of her, I began volunteering and shadowing in hospitals at a young age. Over time, my experiences as an EMT, my studies in medical sociology, and my training as a medical master’s student reinforced my calling to pursue medicine. Through this field, I have found a way to connect with and support people in ways I never imagined possible.

What is your favorite thing about EVMS at ODU?

My favorite part of EVMS has been the sense of community. From working alongside classmates at the HOPES Free Clinic as a clinic coordinator, to collaborating with faculty mentors on research, to serving in student government, I’ve felt consistently supported and encouraged to grow. Leadership is both a passion and a skillset I continue to hone, and at EVMS I feel this aspect of my identity is not only recognized but nurtured. There are countless opportunities here to get involved, step up, and make a meaningful impact.