Tell us about yourself.
I’m currently in the last few months of my medical school experience and am planning to apply to general surgery. Prior to medical school, I attended the University of Miami where I studied biochemistry and nutrition.
Describe your experience at the Lerner College of Medicine.
COVID made the adjustment more challenging than I had anticipated, but once I settled in, the experience has been great. Our admissions committee is phenomenal, and people are intentionally and thoughtfully accepted into the program. I like the smaller class size and value everyone’s opinions in our class.
Which academic aspects have you enjoyed?
I enjoyed my research year at the National Institutes of Health. I got to work with incredible women at the NIH; it was the first time I had female mentors. It was a valuable experience to say the least.
Describe a stand-out moment.
Near the end of my first clinical rotation, I was randomly selected to participate in a debate between medical and surgical treatment of breast cancer. I was assigned to the medical treatment group. I remember thinking, “Oh, surgery is definitely the best choice here,” and that experience opened my world to surgery. Luckily for me, my next rotation happened to be general surgery.
What drew you to CCLCM?
After my sophomore year in college, I joined a summer program for underrepresented minority students, a premed boot camp that taught interview and personal statement skills. That’s when I first learned about CCLCM. After some research, I knew that CCLCM would be the perfect program because of the focus on research and small class size.
Describe your research project.
I began my research project on thoracic soft tissue sarcoma while at the NIH. We’d been looking at surgical treatment of breast cancer and whether the extent of treatment (whether it’s breast-conserving surgery or a more invasive mastectomy) has any influence on the risk of developing thoracic soft tissue sarcoma five, 10 or even 15 years down the line. Our work is focused on raising awareness and making sure people know what signs to look for.
How do you “recharge”?
When I need to recharge, I like to invite over a few friends, order take-out, watch comfort movies and enjoy each other’s presence.
What advice do you wish you had received prior to starting the program?
I wish I had been warned about imposter syndrome. I wish someone had told me that I was going to feel that way and that there are resources to get through it.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying to the program?
Do it! You definitely have to be interested in research, but if you are, the experience is worth it.
What goals did you set for yourself while at CCLCM?
I feel like my goals have evolved over time, but I think at this point in my medical career I want to ensure that minorities have a space and the resources to be successful in their own medical careers.
What’s your most-used app on your phone?
The notes app. I forget things all the time so before I start my day, I open my notes app and go through all the things that I want to do that day. It’s so satisfying to cross things off throughout the day!
Who is your favorite musical artist?
Lauv! I discovered him during the pandemic and really connected with his music.
Fun fact?
For a long time, I wasn’t sleeping well and was constantly tired. Turns out, I was basically experiencing sleep apnea because of my tonsils. I had them removed last year — they were large, about 13 grams — and haven’t had trouble sleeping since. My life has vastly improved since the surgery!
