Dr. McDowell grew up near Fredericksburg in Dale City, Virginia. He grew up hiking and camping with the Boy Scouts in Fredericksburg when it was more rural than the vibrant growth community it is today. Dr. McDowell aspired to become a physician since he was a boy. His family doctor became a mentor through high school and college and taught Dr. McDowell valuable lessons about personal relationships with patients and planted a love for primary care.

After graduating from Gar-Field High, Dr. McDowell graduated from Longwood University, Magna cum Laude with the special designation of "Longwood Honors" celebrating his excellent academic achievements. 

Dr. McDowell's diverse medical training includes experience in poor rural areas of Appalachia and the famous Cleveland Clinic. When Dr. McDowell graduated from medical school in 2000 he had already achieved a leadership award from the American Medical Association. His academic, leadership, and administrative skills earned him the prestigious appointment as Chief Medical Resident at Franklin Square Hospital Center in Baltimore, MD. Dr. McDowell founded Colonial Internal Medicine Associates to bring exceptional primary health care to the Fredericksburg region.

Dr. and Mrs. McDowell live with their three wonderful children in Fredericksburg and are very active in supporting our local community through sports, St. Mary Catholic Church, the Fredericksburg Area Service League, and numerous local adult and child charities.