A Day in the Life: Balancing Medical School and Fatherhood
By: Student Doctor Zachary Told
When I started medical school, I knew it would be a challenge, not just academically, but also in balancing my roles as a student, husband, and dad. Every day looks a little different, but here’s a glimpse of what a typical day in my life as a “med school dad” looks like.
5:00 am – Morning Routine
My day starts early —around 5:00 a.m. —with a workout or a run. Since I am running my first marathon this year, most mornings I like to run the miles of nearby trails, many of which follow along the contours of the red rock cliffs, offering beautiful views of the quiet desert sun peeking between the jagged cliffs. Exercise clears my head and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.
By 6:00 a.m., I’m back home getting ready, making breakfast with my daughter Oakley while my wife heads to the gym. Scrambled eggs and chocolate milk are a “fan favorite” each morning. This little window of family time is one of my favorite parts of the day, when I can soak in all the simple, curious, and silly dialogue she and I share. There is truly nothing else that can get my day going any better!
8:00 am – Academic Focus
From 8:00 a.m. to noon, I head to campus and watch lectures. The library on campus has been one of the many great places that I like to study and focus. When I am studying, I like to have a neat, organized workspace, along with a whiteboard to capture my thoughts and draw new connections. I have found that keeping up with daily/weekly goals has helped me stay ahead, while freeing time for my other responsibilities and hobbies.
After a quick lunch at home, I return to school for labs and review sessions until around 6:00 p.m. My favorite courses thus far have been anatomy and Principles of Clinical Medicine (PCM) labs. Anatomy has allowed me to understand and explore the human body on a much deeper, more personal level than ever before. I’ve also loved my PCM course, which has taught me the foundations of patient-physician interaction and basic clinical skills. This course is not only preparing me for my future career and clinical education years, but it is also where I feel like I am finally at the doorstep of the profession I have long aspired to join.
6:00 pm – Family Evenings
Evenings are reserved for family. From 6:00–8:00 p.m., it’s dinner, playtime, and bedtime routines with Oakley. Some of our favorite activities include evening walks, with several nearby parks within walking/biking distance that we love to visit and play at. Oakley especially loves music, and many nights we turn on her favorite songs, letting out all her toddler energy and dancing together in the living room while my wife makes dinner. And bedtime always includes story time, with Llama Llama Red Pajama and Goodnight Moon being among Oakley’s favorites. These simple routines make evenings some of the most joyful and grounding parts of my day.
9:00 pm – Time That Matters Most
One non-negotiable part of my schedule is 9:00–10:00 p.m. where I spend time with my wife. No studying, no distractions, just reconnecting. During that hour, we often catch up on each other’s day, watch a favorite show like Modern Family or The Office, or even plan for the week ahead. Sometimes it is as simple as sharing a dessert or sitting together on our backyard porch talking. Although it’s a small part of our routine, it makes a big difference in keeping our relationship strong.
Keys to Balance
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:
- When you’re at school, be at school. Focus fully on studying.
- When you’re at home, be at home. Be present for your family.
- Plan ahead. Weekly planning on Sundays helps us stay organized.
- Lean on your support system. Spouse, family, friends, or even pets make all the difference.
Medical school is demanding, but it doesn’t have to mean putting family life on hold. With intentional planning and support, it’s possible to succeed in both.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, I’m currently pursuing an interest in obstetrics and gynecology Through shadowing experiences and especially after becoming a father myself, I have discovered a deep passion for women’s health and supporting families during some of the most meaningful and fulfilling moments of their lives. I hope to combine my medical training with my dedication to service, mentorship, and community involvement, making a difference not only in the clinic but also in the lives of my future patients and communities I will come to love and serve.
See Yourself Here: Learn More About RVU
Check out RVU-Utah’s Instagram and learn more about a day in the life of an RVU medical student.
Do you enjoy spending time outside like SD Zachary? RVU’s Utah campus is surrounded by beautiful state and national parks.