My name is Grace Xiong (she/her/hers), and I’m a senior from Trumbull, CT majoring in Molecular and Cell Biology with an individualized double major in Global Health, Human Rights, and Food Justice!

I was on the pre-dental track in the Special Program in Dental Medicine for 3 years, but made the decision to switch to the pre-med track at the start of my senior year to hopefully pursue primary care in the future (though I still have a deep fondness for dentistry and teeth!). Having been on both the pre-med and pre-dental tracks, I’m happy to chat with anyone about navigating the pre-dental pathway, as well as anyone who is exploring and trying to figure out what path is right for them in the future!

On campus, I’m a co-director for Honors Across State Borders which is an alternative spring break service organization, advocacy chair for UNICEF Campus Initiative, and program director for Mansfield Senior Center. I have volunteered with UConn Community Outreach’s Collegiate Health Service Corps and Cross Cultural Connections programs and with UConn Health Leaders (UCHL). I’m also involved in research with Dr. Valerie Duffy’s Lab in the Department of Allied Sciences on nutrition and dental education for young children and caregivers, and I was a 2023 SURF Grant recipient. I facilitated for UNIV 1784 and am a TA for organic chemistry with Dr. Amy Howell, where I found a love for teaching and helping students grow and overcome obstacles! At home, I volunteer at a local pediatric dental office and as an EMT.

I’m passionate about health equity, immigrant rights, and environmental justice, and I’ve been fortunate to have had the chance to work with the Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services, HUSKY Healthcare for Immigrants student coalition, and Environmental Justice Front in the past! During my free time, I love spending time with friends, playing piano, and knitting!

I would love to connect with you about...

• Navigating the pre-dental pathway
• Exploring and figuring out which path in healthcare is right for you
• Finding clinical experience in both the dental and medical field
• Getting involved with volunteering and advocacy work on and off campus