Those who knew Kelsey Wilson (GHS ’07) as she was growing up in Gorham will remember her as a force to be reckoned with in the classroom and on the soccer field, as a member of a three-time soccer State Championship team, who was named a High School All-American. Some things never change as Wilson is still pushing boundaries.

United States Air Force Captain, Dr. Kelsey Wilson has completed medical school and is currently an Internal Medicine Resident Physician, providing medical care to service members and their families. Wilson said, “There is nothing more rewarding than being able to go to work every day and care for those who are sick. Being a military physician is a way for me to give back to those selfless individuals who serve our country.”

Wilson graduated from University of Maine at Orono, where she majored in Biological Engineering with a Pre-Med minor. She also played Division I soccer for the Black Bears, captaining her senior year. She was selected to the America East Honor Roll and was named a UMaine Scholar-Athlete silver medalist. Following graduation in 2011, she stayed at UMaine for a year doing research in biological engineering as well as being an assistant coach to the women’s soccer team.

Toward the end of her undergraduate studies, Wilson began to think seriously about going to medical school. “I realized that I was very passionate about helping others and supporting people and their families through difficult times,” said Wilson. The following year, she moved to Boston to study for the MCAT in preparation for medical school. During that time, she gained experience at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center as a Pulmonary Function Technician.

In 2014, Wilson decided to join the military as part of a Health Professions Scholarship Program through her medical school at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in spring of 2017. Wilson credits retired Air Force Lt. Col. Bruce Ballantyne, of Gorham, with helping her with the huge decision to enlist. “He was the one who swore me in for my commissioning ceremony in 2014 and he has been there for me every step of the way since,” she said.

Also influencing her decision to enlist was her realization that she had been missing the goal-oriented teamwork she had so much enjoyed in sports. She thought that the military could offer that type of atmosphere, as well. Wilson believes that being an athlete and knowing how to work as part of a team has really benefitted her in her career. “Sports helped teach me the important aspects of working together, motivating teammates, and working towards goals as a unit that is essential in the medical field and in the military,” she said.

Wilson is also grateful to her parents who have been wonderful role models and mentors. “They have always motivated me and encouraged me to chase my dreams. They taught me the true meaning of dedication, how to set goals, and to never give up. I would not be where I am today without their never-ending love and support,” said Wilson. She gives special thanks to Tom and Mary Patterson who were like second parents to her throughout medical school while her parents were living overseas.

Wilson would also like to acknowledge Gorham teacher, Mr. Gulovsen, who supported her academically and athletically through her high school and collegiate career. She said, “I know I speak for a lot of his old students, when I say that he is a very positive and optimistic person who loves to support the successes of his students.”

Dr. Wilson currently lives in Beavercreek, Ohio and is stationed at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. While her 60 to 80 hour work weeks don’t allow for much free time, she and her boyfriend, Jordan Johnson (BYU graduate and current student at the police academy in Ohio) enjoy exploring the new area they call home.

Wilson is the daughter of Sandra and Douglas Wilson. Sister, Lindsay (GHS ’10) is currently living and working in Boston in Real Estate and Private Equity.