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The Blue Tribune is your place to learn about all things Covenant and keep up with stories from campus and beyond. By guiding you through the different aspects of Covenant, we'll help you decide if you want to pursue your very own Covenant experience.
From Flight Surgeon to Physician: Thomas Holcombe ’08
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.
Covenant’s Foundational Impact
Thomas says the holistic education he received from Covenant was foundational for him. “Medicine is about more than just science,” he says. “The core classes at Covenant helped broaden my education, giving me a firm foundation in theology and culture.” He also found a valuable community at Covenant, and fondly remembers playing intramural sports. He even met his wife at Covenant! 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 Covenant to the Navy to Texas
After graduating from Covenant, 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 Covenant. “In each place we’ve lived, we have tried to find a Reformed church to attend and join,” he says, “Covenant 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!