What were some meaningful extracurricular activities that you were involved in while at UConn?
UConn Community Outreach, Youth Education and Development Coordinator; Pre-Med Society President; Planned Parenthood Internship; Hayley Petit Fellowship; Alpha Phi Sorority; Sigma Theta Alpha Fraternity
What were some challenges you have faced along your healthcare journey so far, and how have you overcome them?
Feeling imposter syndrome. It’s easy to look around and see how many amazing people are in your same position, and it can make you question whether you are actually deserving, or even capable of being successful in medical school. There’s also immense pressure for applicants to be unique or “interesting” enough, but overthinking these things definitely got the best of me during interviews. I was trying too hard at times to be someone I’m not just for the sake of being what I thought was more desirable. Just because you don’t speak seven languages and you don’t like to run marathons for fun, doesn’t mean you’re not special. I let the pressure of being completely prepared and making the best possible impression overwhelm me to the point where I was overthinking everything I did and said in interviews. Just trust that the person that you are is enough, and schools will appreciate you as a genuine person. I’d say most of all, admissions is mostly random and it’s not personal whatsoever. I received six waitlist decisions in a row before getting any acceptances, and it was rough. It’s hard not to be hurt and feel rejected after getting an unfavorable outcome.
What did you do during your growth year(s) and what did you learn?
I did one year of research at UConn Health and published a second author paper. Then, I worked as a surgical assistant for Mohs surgery and oculo-facial reconstructive surgery.
What are some ways that you take care of your mental health and overall wellbeing?
I have two dogs that I love and adore! I go on walks with them, and having them around just makes everything better at the end of a long day.
What advice do you have for aspiring pre-health students?
Apply EARLY!!!!!! Seriously, it’s very important. I sent in some secondaries in November/December, and I had to take some potential schools off my list because I couldn’t finish their secondary in time. Pre-write as much as possible, because it will help you so much. When you’re working long days, writing is the last thing on your list of things to worry about. I severely underestimated how long it would take to write essays and just figured I could copy and paste most things. However, most prompts require edits to fit the character/word requirements, and you’ll end up having to start from scratch most of the time. You want the essays to be thoughtful, because they really do show a more nuanced and real side of you in the eyes of admissions committees. Try to brainstorm as many things to write about before deciding on your response. Make sure you multiple editors and critics to help you revise your drafts! That was something I overlooked, and I certainly wish I had that feedback sooner.