Benjamin Galinson

Benjamin Galinson, OMS III

My name is Ben Galinson, and I am a third-year osteopathic medical student at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, currently finishing my final core clerkship rotation. I was born and raised on Long Island, New York, in West Babylon, and I completed my undergraduate education at Cornell University in 2022, where I earned a degree in Biological Sciences. As I approach the next stage of my training, I plan to apply for a general surgery residency with the long-term goal of pursuing a cardiothoracic surgery fellowship. Outside of medicine, I enjoy playing baseball, reading sci-fi and fantasy novels, keeping up with my favorite shows, and jumping out of planes.

I chose NYITCOM because of its proximity to my hometown and my strong desire to give back to the community that played such a meaningful role in shaping my academic journey. Staying on Long Island has allowed me to remain connected to the people and environment that inspired me to pursue medicine in the first place.

As I finish my core clinical year, I am currently on my general surgery rotation at Good Samaritan University Hospital. I start my day early to prepare for the hospital. At 6:30am I arrive at the hospital. I check the surgical schedule and review patient charts. This helps me understand the cases for the day and prepares me to engage meaningfully in the operating room. I will also introduce myself to the operating room staff and ensure I am ready to assist. At 7:30am the first case starts, as a student, my role typically includes retracting to improve visualization, assisting with suction, and performing subcuticular skin closure. The rest of the day depends on the surgical schedule. Cases vary in complexity and specialty, providing exposure to different procedures and techniques. At around 4-5pm after finishing the day’s cases, I try my best to consistently head to the gym and then pick up dinner. Evenings are typically spent reviewing material from the day and studying for shelf exams. On my surgery rotation, I try my best to get to sleep early so I can be fresh for the early start in the morning.

What I value most about NYITCOM is the strong and lasting sense of community it creates, especially beyond the classroom. Throughout my clinical rotations, I have consistently encountered NYITCOM alumni who are eager to support and mentor students. There is a shared sense of pride in the institution that extends into the hospital environment, making it easier to build relationships.