USA Medical Alumni Association hosts Student Career Exploration Mixer
Posted on February 11, 2026 by Lindsay Hughes
The USA Medical Alumni Association hosted the 2026 Student Career Exploration Mixer on Feb. 3 at the Strada Patient Care Center. The event drew its largest crowd since returning in 2024, bringing together more than 60 Whiddon College of Medicine students and 32 physicians representing 25 specialties — including 20 proud USA Whiddon College of Medicine alumni.
Held annually, the mixer gives students the chance to connect with medical alumni
and area physicians, explore potential career paths, and build meaningful professional
relationships in a relaxed, conversational setting.
"As someone still exploring which specialty I want to pursue, having the chance to chat with physicians across so many different specialties was incredibly helpful," said Hannah Kelley, a second-year medical student. "It is meaningful to be a part of a community that is willing to pour into us and help us along the way. I’m so grateful to the physicians for taking the time to share their wisdom and encourage us as we go through this process."
William J. Hayes, M.D., MBA, participated as a cardiologist for the first time this year and noted the practical impact of the evening.
"I quickly realized the USA MAA had organized a 'real world,' extremely practical, informative and educational career exploration forum," he said. "With an extensive lineup of physician specialties, it was an invaluable and very realistic opportunity for USA medical students to become much more well-informed about the careers they are considering by interacting with physicians who live those medical specialties personally and professionally every day."
"From my perspective," Hayes added, "I thoroughly enjoyed the event and was happy to share my experience and answer questions about cardiology."
Physicians interested in representing their specialty at the next mixer may email medalum@southalabama.edu.
View more photos from the event on Facebook.