From Four Decades
in Nursing
to M.D. at 73
From Four Decades in Nursing
to Making History
At an age when most people are enjoying a well-deserved retirement, Dr. Dawn Zuidgeest-Craft is just getting started. This summer, at 73 years old, she officially steps into her new role as a physician intern, beginning a three-year Family Medicine residency at Trinity Health Medical Center in Muskegon, Michigan.
In doing so, the Saint James School of Medicine graduate has officially rewritten the record books, proving to the world that it is absolutely never too late to follow your purpose.
A Lifelong Dream Deferred
The dream of earning a medical degree was planted early in Dawn’s life, but as is so often the case, life had other plans. Over the years, Dawn built an incredibly accomplished and impactful 45-year career in healthcare. As a dedicated neonatal nurse practitioner, educator, and professor, she helped build vital nurse practitioner programs and trained generations of healthcare workers.
Along the way, she raised four children (including ABC News Chief Meteorologist Ginger Zee) and welcomed three grandchildren. While she loved her work and her family deeply, that quiet ambition of becoming a physician remained tucked away, waiting for the right moment.
The Turning Point: Life Is Short
In 2020, a sudden, life-threatening cranial injury suffered by her husband, Carl, brought the fragility of time into sharp focus. As Carl began his recovery, the couple sat down to discuss what was left on their bucket lists. Carl wanted to travel.
Dawn looked at him and said, “I still want to go to medical school.”
With Carl’s full support, Dawn dipped into her retirement savings and took a leap of faith. At age 69, she packed her bags and enrolled at the Saint James School of Medicine.
Overcoming Challenges
With Grace
Returning to rigorous medical coursework decades after her undergraduate years was no small feat. From conquering challenging biochemistry exams to navigating intense clinical rotations in Chicago, West Virginia, and South Texas, Dawn faced the same grueling demands as classmates fifty years her junior.
But far from being an outsider, Dawn became a pillar of her campus community. Her classmates fondly remember her hosting movie nights, practicing yoga on the beach, and providing mentorship born from decades of real-world bedside experience.
“To me, it’s a privilege to be able to care for others medically. I want to do this because I really enjoy this. I feel alive when I work in the medical field.”
— Dr. Dawn Zuidgeest-Craft
A New Chapter in Family Medicine
Dr. Dawn brings a unique advantage to her upcoming residency. With 45 years of clinical nursing experience, she seamlessly bridges the gap between nursing care and physician leadership. As a 73-year-old doctor, she offers an unparalleled level of empathy and life experience to her patients, many of whom will be her peers.
Her story has captured global headlines and inspired millions, serving as a powerful masterclass in lifelong learning, resilience, and the rejection of societal limitations.
Inspired by Dr. Dawn’s Journey?
Dr. Dawn Zuidgeest-Craft is living proof that your timeline is entirely your own. Whether you are considering a career pivot, returning to school, or chasing a long-forgotten dream, let her journey be the reminder you need today: your purpose doesn’t expire.
Ready to start your Journey?
Apply NowWhat Her Story Really Shows
Dr. Dawn’s journey is not just about being the oldest graduate or becoming a doctor at 73.
It’s about what happens when purpose refuses to expire, and about proving there isn’t just one path, or one age, to become a physician.
“The thing that you taught me is that you really can’t say ‘can’t.’ Don’t let anybody tell you it’s not possible, because it is.”
— Ginger Zee, Dr. Dawn’s daughter
