This Science of Empathy

"I was lucky to meet two Chinese graduates from HWS who interviewed me. They persuaded me that William Smith was the right choice for me," she recalls.

At HWS, Metzger discovered both intellectual challenge and the support system she needed to flourish. She pursued a double major in psychology and biochemistry — fields that at first seemed divergent but ultimately intertwined to form the foundation of her career in medicine. "Biochemistry paved my way into the medical field, and psychology really helped me to be a more empathetic physician when treating my patients," says Metzger.

After graduating cum laude, Metzger spent three years honing her focus. She conducted research at Strong Memorial Hospital and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, and published several scientific papers before earning her medical degree from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. Along the way, she discovered how her background in psychology would shape her approach to medicine.

That sense of empathy carried forward into her career as a rheumatologist, where she specializes in systemic autoinflammatory diseases. Crediting her years at HWS as the true catalyst for her path, she points to mentors like Professor Emeritus of Chemistry David Craig, Professor of Chemistry Walter Bowyer and Professor Emeritus of Biology Thomas Glover.

Metzger says her family was driven to make the "biggest impact possible," by the caliber of work produced by HWS students in chemistry and mathematics. She was, she says, "very impressed with the outcomes of the summer research." She is also excited about the construction of the Fish Center for the Sciences — the next chapter in HWS's commitment to the disciplines her foundation supports.

Her motivation to give back is simple: "HWS gave me a solid education and helped form my character. I am forever grateful for the generous scholarship given to me and I want to pay it forward for the next generation to pursue their dreams."

Metzger's advice to today's students echoes the determination that carried her across continents and through the rigors of medical training: "Believe in yourself and keep going forward. One day when you look back, there will be no regret."