Why did you choose to pursue a career in healthcare?
In my first patient care experiences as a home health aide, I found a strong passion to service for others. I enjoy hearing patients' stories and being part of positive change in someone's life. I wanted to be in a career with life long learning potential. Medicine is constantly evolving with exciting advances everyday.
What were some meaningful extracurricular activities that you were involved in while at UConn?
Women in STEM Mentoring Program, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and research within the Psychological Sciences Department.
What were some challenges you have faced along your healthcare journey so far, and how have you overcome them?
I am a first-generation college student, and I had no idea how to navigate the medical school admissions process. It took a lot of research on my own to figure out everything I needed to do. I worked with friends who were applying in the same season to support each other. I also utilized the resources at the Pre-Medical & Pre-Dental Advising Office.
What advice do you have for aspiring pre-health students?
Get involved in volunteering, research, and extracurricular activities that you actually enjoy. Try to get as much clinical exposure as possible. Admissions committees really want to be sure that you know what it means to be a physician and have the drive for it. Every person's path to medical school is different. Don't compare yourself to other applicants, medical schools accept students with a diverse range experiences.
What’s something you wish you knew in college?
Try not to learn and then forget material in the core science course during undergrad. It all comes back on MCAT and in medical school!