LA med student turns small van into ideal dorm on wheels, $14K total 

Thank you all for watching, and thank you to Kirsten for her beautiful storytelling. It is a privilege and honor to share my story with you all. Your kind words mean the world to me. I want to be clear that living in a van by choice is much different than living on the streets because of life circumstances that forced the decision. For me, this was a choice. While yes, part of this had to do with wanting to save money, there is more to the story. I am doing this because I enjoy the simple life. I enjoy challenging myself to find water, to find a place to shower, to cook with few ingredients, etc. It’s a really beautiful practice to go fetch your own water or bike around to find a shower; it makes you deeply appreciate the little things most of us take for granted. Sadly the world of medicine has become a world of money and greed, driven by profit rather than compassion. And I’ve come to the realization that if I really want to practice medicine selflessly and if I really want to make a difference, I need to create a life for myself that doesn’t require a lot of money or things. I have dreams of becoming a really, really amazing physician, someone who listens, understands, and really cares, and this act of living in a van, I believe, is helping me grow into that very person I so deeply aspire to become.

I definitely would want him for my doctor. He knows whats most important in life. He is creative, he thinks outside the box, lives cost effectively,hes humble,confident,kind and takes care of people constantly along the way. What a wonderful human being.

He’s going to make an excellent doctor. His mannerisms display professionalism. Doesn’t matter if you live in a van. He’s in the present and is comfortable. That’s all that really matters.

If I had a place close to wear he is at I WOULD LET HIM KEEP HIS VAN IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE AND LET HIM USE MY WATER, this young man is great!

I met Ethan during his first van experience. He’s the real deal. The medical system need a business model that supports this type of thinking. Here’s hoping his generation succeeds.

Less than 10% of applicants get accepted into UCLA. Mad respect to this young man for his forward planning and affirmative action.

He said most of his classmates are paying about $1600 to $1800 a month in rent, so that's $19200 to $21600 a year (incuring more debt in student loan's). So, for a $14k investment, he can live all of his student life on less than one year's rent, and recoup some of his money when he's done, by selling the van. It's a perfect solution.

I’ll admit I’m emotional when watching this. What has our world come to that people need to live in a van and that society then normalises it. What a fine young man that takes a hold of his life and thinks outside the box and then executes his plan in spite of the stress of potential ridicule. He will go far

"... grew up on a farm..." THAT is what gave him his amazing work ethic! Great JOB, Doctor!

This is the third college student living by choice in a van. I so admire each one of them. I'd love to see a university take the risk and make the commitment to providing student van livers with a safe place to live with water and trash facilities available - perhaps sewer disposable or porta potties. This would be just one way to alleviate student debt.

I've been watching Van tours for years. I've heard many people explain electric systems. This guy did it so concisely and simply that I finally understand. I really appreciate that!!!

My thoughts: 1. This kid is amazing. He can do anything. He’ll be an amazing doctor. 2. The economic pressures of living in these top tier cities is unreal. I have absolutely no judgement of people who live in vans. 3. That to say I love my suburban home outside of Buffalo, NY. It is so nice and very afrordable. 😃 4. When you park your van in a fancy neighborhood you get the wonderful benefits of the neighborhood without the expense and taxes. That is brilliant.

He’s not just book smart. He’s wise and empathetic ❤

He's mellow, adaptable and focused - a pretty rare combination that I think would serve him well in any career, including the one he's chosen.

If this guy doesn't end up with a family in a few years, he will end up in Doctors Without Borders. Such a sweet personality.

That boys going places 😄 Smart boy

I chuckled at the "dodo cut". For anyone trying to copy him, the correct tool is called a "dado stack" of saw blades, which are placed into a compatible table saw in place of the standard saw blade. Not negging him at all, he got the job done and it sounds like he was doing a building without prior experience. So, mad kudos to him for making it happen and best of luck to the future doctor.

This young man really gives a lot of credit to his dad. He’s doing his father proud!

I have lived 7 years in my RV full time after becoming disabled. I was working in the medical field before over 12 years and when my life changed I had to make a way to live off of a fixed income in California. I bought an RV and love it. I would never change or want to go back to sticks and bricks. And now a days I could never afford it. Keep it up. Save money and live life to the fullest. I would definelty invest in any device to deter criminals from breaking in your van especially on the LA streets. But you are doing it right. Beautiful home....

Living in a van isn't all that unusual, but Ethan's so approachable, practical and humble, he seems the perfect advocate for the lifestyle. While not every student has the farmboy chutzpah to craft so beautiful a rolling house, he certainly proves it is possible.

I'm disabled and I think he will have a great deal of empathy for the difficulties of high rent and needing a place that helps people to live independently.

A son that every parent would be proud of. What a lovely guy. I wish him every success.

Dude built this with his dad, so he could go to medical school while living in it. Respect Bro...

The student is just being practical on how to go to school without getting too much student loans. And it's a genius move.

Amazing young man. Creative, innovative, intelligent, committed, and unafraid. Quite the rile model for the rest of us. Excellent job!

I think it's a perfectly sensible solution for these guys. If I was in college, those vans have all I would need (maybe a bathroom). But when they say "when I have friends over to hang-out," it puts a smile on my face. I don't think entertaining or "hanging out" in a van would be all that fun.

He’s a smart kid and he’s going to be a great doctor It’s nice that he has a supportive community. He could do some van builds for other students and use the money to pay for his entire education! He should team up with the nurse who lives in his van in the hospital parking lot. They’d be an amazing team!

to be perfectly honest, his setup is not groundbreaking, its all been done before BUT his sheer humility, energy and eagerness makes him such a sweetheart. he is so cute ❤

3:46 The effort you are putting into still trying to be a good person while also helping others is truly amazing brotha and I wish I could give you free water and showering whenever you need. Much love to you brotha stay strong and never lose that heart you got 🙏🏾 it’s one of a kind

This young man is brilliant and far too humble, if we had more individuals like this the world would be a more beautiful place.

So proud of what a kind, giving, and compassionate young person he is.

The young man seems like a very nice and humble guy. I am sure these life struggles have taught him humility and it will go a long way in teaching him to care for others, especially in the field of medicine. Best of luck and best wishes. I am sure you will make a wonderful doctor and an even better human being.

He's skill building, living ethically, practically, and probably going to get a better education by living in a minimal situation.... less distractions. Hopefully his path to become a Physician will be fruitful. I think it's a brilliant idea for a single person or college bound individuals in crazy expensive cities.... I foresee upon graduation he will probably treat himself to moving into an office and living in his offices practice. The money savings now will make for his ability to start a private practice that much earlier..... If he so chooses... Mad Props 🕊️

What a great committed young man, a true humble committed medical professional he will become and this has nothing to do with where he will live. With all these costs he has to make now he is taken the really sensible road to get where he wants to come. I bow for you 💮🕊

Should get a hand trolley for the water. Get a little induction cooktop, and a Moka that works on it. Thousands of people live like this in Bristol, UK.

Bro your parents should be soooo proud of you. Many people will not do what ever it takes to be successful. You are amazing!!!! Keep going and I wish you nothing but the best!

What an absolutely sweet soul. I am grateful he will be joining the medical community. 💙💙💙

Great change of home type for those of us addicted to watching Van Life channels. This med student is sooooooooooo smart for trying this in a mild climate area. "Hey, you want to see my study hall on wheels? We can have a beach fire afterwards." I must say it is fun to hear Kirsten's awe and surprise while learning about the van. After watching hundreds of van life videos I pretty much kept saying "I knew that". Ethan gives me hope for future youth during these dark times.

Very nice. He is young and good with his hands. At 5’5” he can sleep across the van. At 6’3” I have to sleep longitudinally in my camper. I’m a doctor and I camp in my camper truck, but I am not a physician. Societal norms might apply someday. I am retired so it’s easier now.

Great idea! As long as you can get good quality sleep! And he knew he could do van life because he tried it traveling across country. And he did a beautiful job on the conversion! Creative, self reliant, and smart!

EXCELLENT video. There are traveling medical professionals too. Happy trails.

What a great build. All the success to him. Extremely admirable seeing him propel himself towards his goal. One step at a time, young man.

He just needs a short length of hose attached to a funnel and he can make so many more water sources accessible to his containers.

Thank You for this great Interview and tour, Kirsten and Ethan.

You do what ever you to survive in this crazy time. We need to support people like him. Keep up the good work.

He seems likes a really sweet guy - he's going to be a great doctor with such rich life experiences.

This young man is BRILLIANT and there are SO MANY in his profession that are doing EXACTLY the same LIFESTYLE are living in vans or cars. Some once hired are permitted, if they work as an intern or in the hospital to stay on the premises. RU-vidr "SolarCamperCar" does exactly the same and put himself through nursing school. You have a studio on Wheels you're being fiscally responsible with your money and in the long run you'll be glad you did!! Many are turning to this kind of life, especially seniors, and young people who can't afford both housing, a job and an education. Kudos!❤

The fact he thinks about professionalism, means he’ll always keep his personal and work life professional. He comes across as a very down to earth, humble, empathetic, intelligent young man who thinks outside the box and will make a great physician. Keep going young man!

Amazing story !! Thanks for sharing this. Love the cause. Love your humbleness. Crediting your dad. If there is a small bath this would be next level. All the best for med school - you will be a great doctor and will help the society.

Some of these guys are really imaginative !! And their spaces are SO comfortable compared to being homeless or couch surfing

He has a great spirit and what great classmates!

You are SMART, CREATIVE, and PRACTICAL. Well done. You'll be a great doctor. You think outside the box. Blessings. 🌺

God bless you, young man! The world needs more people like you.

Love your van design I think it’s the best I’ve seen, thanks!❤👍 Best to you. So proud of you, brilliant!

he's so practical and resourceful..cool!

I think it's absolutely awesome! This is thinking and living outside the box! His Van looks fabulous.

100% this guy is gonna do great things in the medical field 🎉

This guy has a fantastic attitude. 👏 It takea an attitude like his for many of his generation to land on their feet no matter what. No small feat. Bravo! 🙏❤️☮️

I've been getting ready to apply to DPT programs, and have read a lot about clinical placements. It is on the student for travel and living expenses, and they may or may not be in one area. Every program says be prepared for this. I've been looking at van life or living in a vehicle because of this. This young man proves it looks like the right plan for me.

Him and his dad is amazing!! He must be so smart to do all these things Good luck and I know you'll be an amazing doctor...

Amazing...Thank you for this video. Ethan is brilliant, multi-talented, and extremely humble. We need more people in the world like him. All the best to Ethan with his future!

He is amazing. He will be an excellent doctor!

I’m very happy a person like him will be in the medical field 🙏🏾

Simple living, high thinking! He is a real inspiration. Love this dude.

What an amazing young man. Adventurous, innovative, hard working and humble. I wish you all the very best in life Ethan.

20:15 Instead of using gas struts on the shelf doors....Use little powerful neodymium magnets. Glue on ceiling & one the handle...Also can glue them on the inside to keep doors from flying open.

So glad that you were able to share your experiences with your family. They must be so proud of you.

Thank you for showing how resilient Ethan is.

Hey Ethan! Love your story! A lot of mindfulness, creative solution seeking, and hard work have gone into your van conversion! Wishing you peaceful parking spaces & good night sleep - many blessings!

Impressive!! Very cool conversion!! Smart and capable fellow! He’ll go far!!!

What an amazing man and an amazing story. He has a great understanding of our world as it is now. Thank you for sharing!

This young man is truly amazing! Years from now he will also be an amazing doctor. Also, his friends seem so nice, diverse and down to earth.

You do you young man, yes you can live in a home on wheels. Think of it as a tiny home on wheels. You are off to a great start. You won't believe how many professionals and every day people are living in vans. I'm 60, and for my retirement, I'm getting a camper van and hitting the road. I will keep a room with family for a permanent address, but I'll go on trips and have a ball. Enjoy life while you do the student thing. Try to look up where you can get what you need under nomad living apps. You're an inspiration. I could tell by your friends reaction to the introduction to your lifestyle that if they could, they'd get a van and park right next to you. You need to watch this, your video, and, after that, get busy living😊

When you start with a little, you'll learn to do a lot with a lot. Good luck young man, you have an amazing future ahead of you as a doctor.

What an incredible young man! I love his attitude and his against-the-grain style. So what, so he'll be the first doctor living in a van! All the best!

Smart young man. I know more students will start doing the same.❤❤

Good luck, Ethan! In my humble opinion, you have made a difficult choice in the short term, but a very smart choice in the long term.

This is the best attitude to have in life. Don't feel sorry for yourself just get creative.

Congratulations on your journey. You will have such great memories to share with your children. I am impressed!

Love this video, his van home is one of the best I have seen. Also enjoyed seeing some other vans as well. If I were younger I would definitely do this lifestyle, such amazing freedom.

Great looking conversion, and he seems to be handling things well, but I could also see van life being a bit of a double-edged sword for students. Good luck to him in his studies!

Kudos to him for his build. A few thoughts: His inverter is only 1000W - not enough juice to run a “hair dryer” or “a blender.” Also, his propane tank should be enclosed and vented better in case there’s a leak - could kill him.

What a nice young man. He and his father did a great job on this conversion.

Thank you for sharing your home with us. You are so smart to live simply now instead of going into debt.

Hint get a collapsible funnel or funnel hose combo for filling up the water containers. Not sure what dorms are like now, but when I shared a dorm in college I didn't have much more space and no kitchen so this is a great alternative!

Medical school is expensive! Do anything you can to make it through med school! I am living in my SUV for nursing school. LOVE your van set up! GOOD LUCK!

Your Dad is great and he is giving all of that to you. And now you are ahead of the game!!

This was quite amazing watching Ethan talk about building the van with his Dad! What a nice young man! Good luck to u in med school! You will be a great doctor!:)

Good Luck Doc from the Jersey Shore !!!

I think this is a great combination of value, simplicity and anesthetics. Looks good enough that girls wouldn't mind coming by either!

This young man is a genius. I wish him all best and success for the future.

Van life is huge and wonderful! Many have begun living in vehicles due to the outrageous cost of living, and then the freedom that comes with it brings more people. The lack of waste and materialism are a beautiful side effect of the simplicity of just downsizing. Unburdening oneself of all of the wants and getting back to needs. I love it! I lived in my van for two years. It has ruined sticks and bricks living for me forever.

You're awesome, not unprofessional at all! You're a genius. Also this way he will be able to pay off student loans, in order to save for a home one day. If he can handle living like this long term.

If a school kick you out because where you live. That school is not about education. PERIOD!

I am so impressed! Seriously great plan! you do not have to share a room with a nut case, you can pay for school (but the US REALLY needs to get their act together on education) and What a clean plan! Simple but nice! And during breaks - you can just get out and actually afford going on a little trip! Love it!

this is such a nice idea ! and your friends are very supportive

How hard would it be for an university like that to just build decent student dormitories. They have almost unlimited land, a ton of funds. Just throw out a hundred cars out of a campus parking lot and you can have a comfortable dorm for 500 students. It's a conscious choice they are making...

You gotta do it the way that makes sense to you. Imagine the possibilities of being a doctor in a van! (if you WANT to continue living in a van) Think of the possibilities rather than whether you're conforming to some norm or not. Really nice conversion btw. Your life looks amazing🎉 I'd want a toilet, though.

Thank you for video. Blessings to you.

Smart. Realistic and beautiful job. Looks cozy. The older folding campers housed water totes that supplied the tiny sink with water. If one could be located. Painted black or blue. Secured to the roof. It could supply gravity fed water into your sink.