Tyson Amundsen, MD

Meet Tyson!

Dr. Tyson Amundsen graduated from the College of Humanities in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Latin American Studies. He earned his medical degree from the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix. He completed a 3-year residency in Internal Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine - Temple and is currently completing a Gastroenterology Fellowship at the University of Tennessee. Upon graduating in 2025, he plans to move home to Utah and work in private practice.

 

Q: Why did you choose to study at the University of Utah?

A: I grew up in Utah and always wanted to attend the University of Utah! My dad is a 1970s physics alumnus, and his experience at the U inspired my dream of pursuing an education there. Given that my two brothers and my sister also attended the U, my primary focus was always on attending the U.

 

Q: Why did you choose to study in Latin American Studies?

A: Since high school, attending medical school has been my goal. I spent one semester at the University of Utah before serving an LDS mission in Los Angeles, where I learned to speak Spanish. Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures and languages, and it was there that I developed a deep appreciation for the Spanish languages and Latin culture. Upon returning home, I discussed my educational goals with my older brothers, who pursued career paths. They advised me to study something I truly enjoyed. Although my passion for medicine remained, I realized my interests were far more broad than the premed prerequisites. After exploring my options, I discovered Latin American Studies, which aligned perfectly with my aspirations due to its flexibility and the opportunity it offered to explore diverse cultures and countries.

During my time as a student, I really enjoyed the spectrum of departments and classes available to me. From Professor Hugh Cagle's History of Brazil to Professor Claudio Holzner's Democracy in Latin America, every day of learning was joyous and inspiring. When it came time to apply to medical school, my humanities degree helped set me apart from other candidates. While most applicants have degrees outside the humanities, my Latin American Studies background gave me the skills to understand people and communicate effectively, qualities that are essential in the medical field. My degree was interesting enough to capture attention and proved to be a strong part of my application. I believe that I am a better doctor because of my time studying at the College of Humanities.

 

Q: What advice would you give to current humanities students?

A: The skills you gain studying in the humanities are highly sought after and valuable in any career path. A humanities degree opens countless opportunities, equipping you with the tools to pursue your aspirations. Whether your dream is pre-med or another field, a humanities education provides a strong foundation and a competitive edge. 

 

Q: What advice would you give to graduating students?

A: Have faith and keep grinding!

 

Q: What is the best professional advice you’ve received?

A: Learn to seek feedback and take constructive criticism with a thick skin and humility. Understand that, even as a doctorate or graduate student, you don’t know everything.  Set aside your pride, stay open-minded, and embrace every opportunity to grow.

 

Q: What is your favorite part of your fellowship?

A: I enjoy being an important part in colorectal cancer prevention through population health screenings. While colorectal cancer can be highly lethal, it can be prevented and well-managed with the help of a gastroenterologist. I take pride in knowing that I can help prevent cancer and provide my patients with meaningful, compassionate care.

 

Q: How do you currently make an impact through your work or other activities?

A: I always offer to mentor premedical and medical students as well as trainee physicians as they pursue their own career paths. I do this informally via word of mouth but also as a formal mentor for the American College of Gastroenterology, connecting with trainees from across the country. My educational and career trajectory has been blessed with many positive role models who encouraged and inspired me to set and achieve lofty goals. Showing gratitude by passing on advice to the next generation gives me great satisfaction.