From Special Operations to Medicine: How SOF to SOM Is Shaping the Future of Veteran Healthcare Leaders
- Security Halt Podcast
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
In a powerful episode of the Security Halt Podcast, host Deny Caballero sits down with Ricky Ditzel Jr., co founder of SOF to SOM (Special Operations Forces to School of Medicine), to explore the incredible journey veterans are making from elite military service to healthcare leadership. This conversation highlights the challenges, mindset shifts, and mentorship needed to bridge the gap between battlefield medicine and professional medical practice.
The Medical School Journey for Veterans
Less than 0.01% of medical students nationwide are veterans, a staggering statistic that points to systemic barriers rather than lack of capability. Many veterans, particularly those from SOF backgrounds, face difficulty translating their extraordinary military experiences into a format that resonates with medical school admissions committees. SOF to SOM was founded specifically to bridge this gap, providing mentorship, coaching, and financial support to help operators navigate the complex medical school application process.
One of the biggest hurdles veterans face is storytelling. Special operators are trained to be “quiet professionals,” which often results in underselling their experiences. Ricky shares how SOF to SOM helps applicants frame their leadership, trauma care experience, and decision-making skills into powerful narratives without compromising operational security.
Overcoming Academic and Psychological Challenges
Preparing for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a massive undertaking. Commercial prep programs often cost between $3,000 and $5,000—a prohibitive expense for many transitioning veterans. SOF to SOM provides scholars with resources for MCAT preparation, interview coaching, and application support. The investment pays off, with the organization having successfully guided 40 scholars into medical schools nationwide.
Beyond academics, the transition comes with a profound identity challenge. Ricky shares his own experience at Columbia University, where feelings of inadequacy surfaced despite his accomplishments in Special Forces and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. This identity crisis is common among veterans stepping into entirely new professional arenas.
Maintaining physical fitness during the academic grind is another major factor. Ricky emphasizes that even short 10–15 minute workouts improve cognitive performance, mental health, and stress management. Maintaining health and wellness isn't just about looking good—it’s about academic survival.
Building a New Network of Veteran Physicians
SOF to SOM’s model is built on mentorship and accountability. Scholars who benefit from the program are expected to give back by mentoring future applicants and becoming leaders within their medical schools. Many scholars have already stepped into leadership roles, becoming class presidents and founding student organizations focused on veteran healthcare issues.
The vision is ambitious yet achievable: a self-sustaining network of over 100 SOF physicians practicing across specialties nationwide within the next decade. This new generation of doctors will carry forward the discipline, leadership, and service ethos of Special Operations into the healthcare system, where it is desperately needed.
Advice for Veterans Pursuing Medicine
For veterans considering this transition, Ricky’s advice is clear: embrace lifelong learning, develop strong diagnostic skills, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and stay committed to the fundamentals of nutrition, sleep, and fitness. And most importantly, maintain perspective. As Ricky reminds listeners, “There’s plenty of oxygen and no one’s shooting at you.” The skills forged under pressure in Special Operations can become powerful assets in the classroom, clinic, and operating room.
Age is no barrier—the oldest SOF to SOM scholar is 44 years old. If you have the drive, discipline, and passion for healing, the path from Special Operations to medical school is not just possible—it’s waiting for you.
Step into the next chapter of leadership and service—because the battlefield may change, but the mission to serve continues.
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