Richard P. Moses, Unites States Navy. Photo: Courtesy of Department of Defense.
Richard P. Moses, a 2012 graduate of Rutgers University, has achieved remarkable success since his time as an undergraduate in the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS) Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program. After earning a degree in Biological Sciences, with honors, Richard went on to graduate from Pennsylvania State College of Medicine in May 2016. He is now an officer and an accomplished anesthesiologist with the United States Navy.
Richard’s journey began when he entered the SEBS EOF program as a motivated and ambitious 17-year-old from Newark, New Jersey. From the outset, he distinguished himself as an engaged and active student. During his time at Rutgers, he participated in the Rutgers University Glee Club, Orphan Sporks, the EOF Student Organization, served as a Resident Assistant and was a student mentor for the EOF Summer Program.
U.S. Navy Anesthesiologist Richard P. Moses, M.D. Photo: Courtesy of Richard P. Moses.
His commitment to supporting his peers was evident through his role as a Teaching Fellow for the Solid GEMS Chemistry program and as a Math Tutor. His academic pursuits were further enriched by his involvement as a Yale University SURF Scholar, an opportunity he earned through the SEBS EOF program.
Richard’s contributions extended beyond the classroom. He spent nearly every summer engaged in SEBS EOF activities, making a lasting impact on the program and those around him. His leadership and dedication were recognized by the SEBS EOF advisors, who mentored him closely due to his willingness to engage and his capacity for growth. His kind and approachable demeanor made him a role model among his peers, many of whom sought his advice and guidance. Richard’s quiet confidence and work ethic inspired those around him to strive for excellence.
It comes as no surprise that Richard graduated from Rutgers with honors. “The SEBS EOF program takes great pride in his achievements, both during his time as a student and in his professional career. Dr. Moses continues to maintain a strong connection to the program, frequently returning to speak to first-year students. His presence serves as a powerful testament to the value of representation and mentorship,” says Jacqueline Moore, Ph.D., director of SEBS EOF.
The SEBS EOF program is proud to call Richard one of its own. “His success story continues to inspire current students, reminding them of the heights they can reach with dedication and hard work. Dr. Moses’s ongoing support of the program and his willingness to encourage the next generation of scholars ensures that his legacy will endure for years to come,” adds Moore.
A first-generation college student, Richard attributes his success to the preparation he received at SEBS, primarily the guidance and support from the EOF Office. He also credits the professors who engage with curious students and the diversity of programs and extracurricular activities on campus.
Richard shares his academic journey to achieving his childhood dream of becoming a doctor.
What do you consider your greatest challenges to succeeding academically?
Learning how to navigate higher education and the discipline required to get things done.
What were some of the tools you employed to stay focused at SEBS?
I kept focus on my internal purpose (my commitment to family), and I surrounded myself with people with similar academic rigor. I sought guidance and support from the SEBS EOF Office, focused on the class I was in, and a lot of caffeine.
What role did EOF play in your SEBS journey and how do you pay that forward?
EOF provided a community for me to feel safe and supported in a larger institution. They provided me with opportunities to develop as an academic and leader. When Rutgers Health Profession Office declined my request for a required letter to support my application to medical school and recommended that I take a year off, the EOF Dean at the time, Dean Foster, wrote me a letter that allowed me to apply and get accepted without a gap year. I am the person I am today and hold Rutgers in high regard due to the EOF Office. I pay it forward by serving as a mentor, public speaker, and teacher in various settings—schools, sports, churches, hospitals. I also often return to Rutgers EOF Summer Program for ‘meet and greet’ events when possible.
Richard P. Moses (SEBS’12), second from left, touring Italy as an undergraduate student with fellow members of the Rutgers Glee Club. Photo: Courtesy of Richard P. Moses.
How would you describe your transition from SEBS to medical school?
Finishing my last year at Rutgers doing 18+ credits of sciences per semester, I felt like medical school was a break. One day I was talking with my clinical preceptor about the PSU vs RU football game. He jokingly asked how could I be rooting for RU when PSU will make me a doctor? Though I am a fan of Scarlet Knights and Nittany Lions, I said “Penn State may have raised me but Rutgers made me! You could put me in any medical school and the outcome will be the same.”
Describe what you do now professionally. And, has your career so far lived up to your expectations?
I’m an Anesthesiologist in the United States Navy, and an Assistant Professor at Uniformed Services University where I get the opportunity to teach and advise Hospital Corpsman, medical students, Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists and residents. I’m also the Associate Program Director for Transitional Year Interns, Site Director for all anesthesia rotators (i.e. medical students, interdepartmental residents, and shadowing experiences for high school/college students), and Chair the ACGME CLER Professionalism line of effort. So far, it is better than I could have imagined or planned. Truly walking in the promise of God!
What advice would you offer current SEBS undergraduate students, in general?
First, develop a habit of excellence. In everything you do, give your very best so that at your worst you’ll still give more than enough. Second, look up every now and then to make sure you’re heading in the right direction, but spend majority of your time focusing on the step you’re currently on and the one you’re moving to. You are closer than you think, and the journey is what makes the destination worthwhile. Third, whenever possible, don’t give up or change course in the valley. It’s important to prove to yourself that you’re capable and allow the opportunity to build character so that you can choose your next move. Fourth, continue to do the things that bring you joy and find or a create a group at Rutgers where you can share it with others. Above all, surround yourself with people who have an admirable work ethic and will hold you accountable.
