Hospitalist Physician | Medical Consultant | Miss South Carolina for America
National Title, Miss for America 2021
Dr. Rachel Fenters Kirk’ s journey is nothing short of extraordinary—she’s a true testament to resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication. Growing up in Hemingway, a small town in South Carolina with fewer than 600 people, Rachel's dreams soared far beyond the town's boundaries. Her childhood was filled with the arts—competitive dance, opera singing, and even Italian piano recitals—and a profound sense of purpose. But it was her strong faith and her mission-driven mindset that set her on the path toward medicine. Her road to success began with an academic flourish. After excelling in high school, Rachel moved on to Emmanuel College, where she balanced studying biology and biblical studies with community outreach and leadership. It was here that her sense of calling deepened, particularly during a life-changing mission trip to Africa, where she discovered her life’s purpose: becoming a physician to care for others. Her time at Emmanuel was far from ordinary—leading a women’s outreach program, establishing a dance ministry, and conducting groundbreaking research at Emory University were just a few of her accomplishments.
By 2013, she had earned her place at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine and began her journey toward becoming a doctor. She was soon accepted into a family medicine residency at McLeod Regional Medical Center, where her compassion grew even stronger as she faced the opioid crisis head-on, training physicians on opioid safety and addiction prevention.
But even as her medical career soared, Rachel’s personal life was filled with trials. Her relationship with a man battling opioid addiction took a toll on her mental and physical health. Overcoming this challenging chapter, she lost 60 pounds, reclaimed her joy, and graduated from residency. However, her next battle was one no one could have predicted—the COVID-19 pandemic. As a hospitalist at McLeod, Rachel witnessed the daily toll of the virus, with patients passing away in heartbreaking numbers.
Yet, through these dark times, Rachel found a beacon of light. Inspired to make a difference beyond the hospital, she entered the Miss South Carolina for America pageant—and won. That victory propelled her to a national stage, where she clinched the coveted title of Miss for America in 2021. The platform gave her a new avenue to champion causes close to her heart: supporting women, tackling opioid addiction, and spreading a message of resilience. In just nine months, she became an inspiration across the United States, using her voice to advocate for women—single mothers, divorcees, and those struggling through life’s challenges—while still balancing her demanding role as a full-time physician.
From flying helicopters over Alaskan glaciers to walking the runway at New York Fashion Week, Rachel’s journey is filled with bucket-list moments. But it’s her desire to help others that truly sets her apart. Whether working with the Governor of South Carolina to end opioid abuse or mentoring future generations, Dr. Rachel Fenters Kirk is a living example of how faith, perseverance, and a heart for service can turn life’s obstacles into stepping stones.
Her story is a reminder that no matter where you come from, no dream is too big, and no challenge is too great. Rachel’s ability to balance her demanding medical career with her advocacy work—and still find time for adventure—is an inspiration to anyone striving to make a difference. Her journey continues, and for Dr. Rachel Fenters Kirk, the best is yet to come.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelfenters/
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