ĢƵ

Skip to main contentSkip to main navigationSkip to footer content
the ĢƵ experience narrative

The Blue Tribune is your place to learn about all things ĢƵ and keep up with stories from campus and beyond. By guiding you through the different aspects of ĢƵ, we'll help you decide if you want to pursue your very own ĢƵ experience.

From Flight Surgeon to Physician: Thomas Holcombe ’08

thomas holcombe

In reflecting on his academic, military, and professional career, Thomas Holcombe ’08 sees continual evidence of God’s hand at work.

Choosing a Career in Medicine

Coming out of high school, Thomas had to choose between two paths which tugged at him. He’d always been interested in science, so he knew he wanted to either attend a graduate school for chemistry or pursue medical school. He ended up choosing the med school route since his father was a physician and Thomas was familiar with the career path. Studying the material also gave him enjoyment and fulfillment. He says, “I like that medicine is both a science and an art whereby you help people maintain and achieve their health.” He felt God calling him to be a physician so that he could help people on a daily basis.

ĢƵ’s Foundational Impact

Thomas says the holistic education he received from ĢƵ was foundational for him. “Medicine is about more than just science,” he says. “The core classes at ĢƵ helped broaden my education, giving me a firm foundation in theology and culture.” He also found a valuable community at ĢƵ, and fondly remembers playing intramural sports. He even met his wife at ĢƵ! He says his friends helped him focus on seeking Christ while in college. Furthermore, the instruction he received prepared him to live out his faith both at work and home, helping him remember the truth when his life and career became difficult.

From ĢƵ to the Navy to Texas

After graduating from ĢƵ, Thomas went to medical school on a military HPSP (Health Professions Scholarship Program). He spent the six following years in the Navy, finishing an internship in general surgery, then flight training. He served as a flight surgeon for two tours, at which point he left active duty in 2022 and began his residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston in occupational and environmental medicine. He describes how his military service, which required him to move frequently, impacted the formation of his family and their community of friends that began being formed at ĢƵ. “In each place we’ve lived, we have tried to find a Reformed church to attend and join,” he says, “ĢƵ helped give me a strong foundation in the Bible, doctrine, and theology. It emphasized good community and friends who can keep you grounded in Christian truth.”

To read more of his story, visit Thomas’ alumni profile!

Connect with us

Loading...