Meet Inspira Advantage’s Med School Admissions Experts

Dr. Rabinowitz's academic journey began at the University of Michigan, where he graduated with the Highest Distinction, earning a degree in cellular and molecular biology. His undergraduate career was marked by exceptional achievements, including being named a James B. Angell Scholar for seven consecutive semesters of perfect scholarship. He was inducted into both Phi Kappa Phi and Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Societies as a third-year student, an honor reserved for the top percentile of Michigan's graduating class. 

During his time at Michigan, Dr. Rabinowitz demonstrated a strong commitment to peer education and mentorship. He served as a tutor, small group facilitator, and course leader for Introductory Biochemistry at the college's Science Learning Center, and as a mentor in the Michigan Pre-Med Advising Community (MPAC). His dedication extended beyond academics, as he volunteered as a music therapist at Michigan's Hospital, playing acoustic guitar for patients and their families.

Dr. Rabinowitz's leadership and commitment to medical education were evident in his roles at Johns Hopkins. As a Lester Persky, MD Urologic Research Scholar, Dr. Rabinowitz not only graduated with 30+ publications but was also the principal investigator of a study sponsored by the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. He was integral in the Liaison Committee on Medical Education's institutional review of Johns Hopkins, served as an inaugural coach in the medical school's "Peer-to-Peer" learning program, and founded the school's Music and Medicine Interest Group.

Dr. Rabinowitz was elected by his peers to serve on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee. In this role, he was a voting and interviewing member, reviewing over 500 applications, personally interviewing over 50 applicants, and participating in committee meetings as a voting member. He was also chosen as the study body speaker at National Match Day.

Dr. Rabinowitz's experience as both an applicant and an admissions committee member gives him insights into the medical school and residency application process. His approach to counseling is friendly, structured, and goal-oriented and his broad experience makes him an invaluable resource for aspiring medical students and residents.

Dr. Harowitz graduated summa cum laude with a BA in neuroscience (biological basis of behavior) and minors in chemistry and psychology. During her time at Penn, she was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. She also served as a teaching assistant for the Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology class and a major advisor for the neuroscience program, experiences marking an early passion for education and mentorship.

She earned her MD from the Perelman School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and received the Henrietta and Jacob Lowenburg Prize in Pediatrics for her academic excellence and compassionate care. During medical school, Dr. Harowitz held numerous coaching roles as a peer tutor, clerkship mentor, and doctoring course facilitator. She was also heavily involved in Perelman School of Medicine admissions, interviewing countless PSOM applicants and gaining firsthand insight into how medical school admissions decisions are made.

Dr. Harowitz is now training as a double-board candidate in pediatrics and child neurology. She is a member of the Boston Children’s Academy for Teaching and Educational Innovation and Scholarship and teaches students at Harvard Medical School. She also has an active research background with peer-reviewed publications and national conference presentations in pediatric epilepsy, health disparities, telemedicine access, and neuropsychiatry. Dr. Harowitz has been published in journals such as Epilepsia, Spine, and Schizophrenia Research, and has presented posters at the American Epilepsy Society, Child Neurology Society, and the Association of Pediatric Program Directors.

What sets Dr. Harowitz apart as a coach is that she has both personal experience navigating medical school and residency admissions, and also an insider perspective from serving as an interviewer and member of the Penn Med admissions committee. She understands not only what worked for her but what has worked for a wide range of applicants with diverse backgrounds, interests, and challenges. She brings a strategic lens to application advising, helping students shape cohesive, compelling narratives that resonate with the values and priorities of their target programs.

Dr. Harowitz’s style is warm, approachable, and thoughtful. She is also a coach who knows when to push students beyond their comfort zones to help them realize their full potential. She believes that success in the application process is less about memorizing metrics and more about articulating one’s motivations, values, and goals with clarity and authenticity. Dr. Harowitz has a strong track record of academic excellence and leadership, with years of experience in teaching, advising, and supporting students at every stage of their medical journey. She is passionate about mentorship, equity in medical education, and helping students navigate medical school and residency admissions.

An accomplished researcher, Dr. Chokkara is passionate about improving healthcare outcomes and the quality of care. He has published numerous studies examining the treatment of patients with COPD and asthma, as well as research on the inclusivity of COVID-19 clinical trials for traditionally underrepresented patient populations. 

Throughout his medical career, Dr. Chokkara has conducted extensive research applying informatics and machine learning to analyze national trends in healthcare quality and develop readmission prediction tools. These experiences have sharpened his analytical skills and given him unique insight into the potential of emerging technologies to drive data-driven decision-making in medicine. Looking ahead, he hopes to explore how big data and machine learning can be leveraged to enhance patient care.

Dr. Chokkara has also served as a teaching assistant for several courses at the University of Chicago. His experience interviewing prospective students has given him an insider’s perspective on the medical school admissions process, deepening his understanding of what makes an applicant stand out. He leverages this expertise to help students strengthen their applications and navigate this pivotal stage of their careers. For him, the most rewarding part of advising is helping applicants find their voice and present their most authentic, compelling selves. Students he has coached have gained acceptance to top medical schools such as Case Western, Northwestern, the University of Miami, Texas A&M, and Tulane.

One of Dr. Chokkara’s greatest strengths as a coach is guiding applicants in crafting compelling narratives that showcase their motivations for pursuing medicine. While many candidates have strong experiences and aspirations, articulating them in a way that highlights their individuality can be challenging. He believes the best coaching blends structured, goal-oriented guidance with adaptability, ensuring each applicant’s unique journey is authentically represented. His approach breaks the application process into clear, manageable steps that empower students to succeed.

Passionate about mentorship, Dr. Chokkara is eager to share his knowledge and experiences with aspiring medical students, helping them navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead as they work toward becoming skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.

Dr. Warner graduated from Johns Hopkins with an MD and MPH in epidemiology/biostatistics before becoming a resident physician at the Johns Hopkins Osler Internal Medicine Training Program. Dr. Warner has sat on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee and has years of experience as a pre-medical advisor working with students who have been accepted to top medical schools such as the UCSF School of Medicine, UVA School of Medicine, and the University of Maryland School of Medicine, among others. 

Dr. Warner obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona, where her fascination with the medical field flourished. She worked in a breast cancer research lab for four years, studying the protein interactions of triple-negative breast cancer. Her work in the lab led to her receiving funding to participate in a research exchange program in Sweden. 

Her research experiences solidified her interest in oncology and led her to the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. During medical school, she won multiple scholarships, including the AMWA Carter Global Health Fellowship and the PEO International Scholar Award. After her third year of medical school, Aanika stepped away to pursue a fully funded MPH degree at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Here she was able to learn advanced statistical techniques for clinical research. She currently serves on the Procedures Working Group Committee at Johns Hopkins to increase procedure training for residents in the Osler Internal Medicine Residency.

Dr. Warner's passion for counseling stems from her own experiences applying to medical school. She understands the stress and complexity of the process and wishes she had had someone knowledgeable to guide her through it. This experience, combined with her love for teaching, drives her commitment to helping future doctors achieve their goals.

As a consultant since her fourth year of medical school, Dr. Warner has worked with pre-medical students seeking guidance during their college years, as well as those navigating the medical school application process. She has also been involved in one-on-one advising and interview preparation and  her expertise extends to residency and internal medicine fellowship applications. 

Dr. Warner's approach to counseling is thorough, structured, and efficient. She maintains close contact with students during the application process, ensuring they have a partner to lean on during this stressful time. Her sessions are productive and tailored to each student's needs, covering a variety of topics. After each session, she provides a brief summary email, allowing students to review the discussion and follow up with any additional questions.

Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her meticulous attention to detail, vast experience working with students, and insider knowledge of how admissions committees operate and review applicants. Dr. Warner works quickly while ensuring each student receives dedicated time on their written work to present their best selves. Her recent success stories include helping a student create an excellent update letter that resulted in their acceptance off the waitlist at UCSF.

Apart from her consulting work, Dr. Warner has continued to explore her interest in oncology and present at the American Society of Clinical Oncology. She was recently the keynote speaker at the Undergraduate Biology Research Program at the University of Arizona.

Throughout his medical journey, Dr. Gruszczynski has been deeply committed to medical education and mentorship. As a medical student, he founded the Leadership in Medicine and Surgical Skills courses at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, programs designed to empower future physicians with both technical and professional skills. At the University of Virginia, he has served as a lecturer and proctor for tracheostomy and surgical skills training for medical students and as a representative on the General Medical Education Committee.

Dr. Gruszczynski’s academic work has appeared in premier peer-reviewed journals, including The Laryngoscope, Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, and Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Medicine. He has presented his work at national and international conferences, receiving multiple research awards from leading professional societies.

As a BS/MD and medical school admissions coach, Dr. Gruszczynski draws on his background in academic medicine and his firsthand insight from serving on the University of Virginia Otolaryngology Residency Acceptance Committee. He has guided numerous students to success, helping them build authentic and competitive applications to top medical programs across the U.S. Students whom Dr. Gruszczynski has coached have been accepted to medical schools such as Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, UCLA School of Medicine, and Sidney Kimmel Medical College.

Passionate about guiding the next generation of physicians, Dr. Gruszczynski works with pre-medical and medical students to help them navigate the challenges of applying to BS/MD programs, medical school, and residency. His mentorship emphasizes academic excellence, personal growth, and authentic storytelling, helping each student present their unique journey with confidence and clarity.

Dr. Irani’s path to medicine began with an early commitment to service and academic excellence, graduating from Wayne State University with a BS in honors psychology, a minor in nutrition and food science, and recognition as a Phi Beta Kappa scholar. Participation in Wayne State's MedStart BS/MD program laid the groundwork for a career shaped by both strong scholarship and deep community engagement. Dr. Irani received multiple recognitions during her time at Wayne State, including the Wayne State University Presidential Scholarship, Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) Award, and Fulbright U.S. Student Program Award. She also received multiple recognitions for posters and presentations.

At the University of Michigan, Dr. Irani completed a dual MD/MPH program, taking a year to focus on public health research in epidemiology. During her medical training, Dr. Irani contributed to groundbreaking research in pediatric pulmonology, neonatal intensive care, maternal-fetal medicine, health equity, and global health. This work led to numerous peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Dr. Irani has been published in prestigious journals such as Academic Medicine: The Journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges, the American Journal of Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and the Journal of Clinical and Translational Science. 

Dr. Irani was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and was awarded Epidemiology Department Dean’s Scholarship, a full-tuition award for completing her MPH. She also received the Woll Scholarship through Global Reach for International Research in Ghana and an African Studies Center scholarship for travel to the International Society for Hypertension of Pregnancy (ISSHP) conference in India, where she received the Young Investigator Award. 

Dr. Irani’s leadership experience is equally robust, including roles as Co-Chair for OBGYN Delivered, Director of Operations for the Doctors of Tomorrow pipeline program, Chair of the Student Diversity Council, and outreach coordinator for the University of Michigan Student-Run Free Clinic. Through these and other positions, Dr. Irani has consistently promoted diversity, equity, and inclusion in medical education and fostered supportive environments where students can thrive. She is currently completing her residency at the University of Wisconsin Hospitals & Clinics.

Dr. Irani has extensive experience in coaching students at every stage of the medical journey, including BS/MD admissions, pre-med and pre-health advising, medical school admissions coaching, and residency admissions guidance. As a medical school admissions interviewer, Dr. Irani gained deep insights into what admissions committees value and was involved in a decision-making capacity. With 10 years of coaching experience, she has helped students gain acceptance to the University College of Human Medicine, the Medical College of Wisconsin, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, UT Southwestern School of Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Albert Einstein School of Medicine, and others. 

As an admissions consultant, Dr. Irani draws on comprehensive experience as both a mentor and applicant, helping students navigate personal statements, interview preparation, and application strategy. She is known for her approachability, encouragement, and an unwavering commitment to student success. Her consulting style is that she sees every student as a whole person whose unique story deserves to shine. Dr. Irani brings both expert insight and genuine enthusiasm to every student’s journey, fostering confidence and highlighting each student’s authentic strengths.

Dr. Shafton earned an undergraduate degree in history from the University of Michigan and began his career in investment banking. However, deep down, he felt that his calling was to become a doctor. Inspired by a research assistantship at the University of California, San Francisco (where he co-authored his first scholarly publication), he pivoted to medicine, completing a postbaccalaureate premedical program at Harvard University. While at Harvard, he pursued research in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and volunteered on the pediatric oncology ward at Boston Children’s Hospital. He was then accepted to the University of Illinois College of Medicine, where he received a merit-based scholarship covering full tuition for his second year and engaged in several research projects

After medical school, Dr. Shafton completed his internship at Rambam Hospital in Israel and began specialty training in neurosurgery, contributing a chapter to a neurosurgical textbook. He later transitioned to urgent care medicine, where he treated more than 12,000 patients across a wide range of conditions. His years of front-line clinical practice honed his diagnostic skills, adaptability, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

As an admissions coach, Dr. Shafton draws on this unique combination of academic, clinical, and mentorship experience to guide aspiring medical students. He helps applicants discover their authentic voice, frame their experiences strategically, and present cohesive, compelling applications. His approach is student-centered, empathetic, and deeply informed by his own service on a medical school admissions committee.

Dr. Shafton is passionate about mentoring because he knows the importance of having a trusted guide during a challenging process. He is committed to supporting each student with personalized, thoughtful guidance that highlights their strengths and maximizes their chances of success.

Before her time at Rutgers, Dr. Altchek completed her undergraduate education at Harvard University, where she graduated with Latin honors with a top GPA. She excelled as a four-year Division I varsity athlete on the Harvard softball team, winning an Ivy League Championship and participating in the NCAA tournament. She became an expert in time management with a grueling academic and athletic schedule, as well as perseverance and dedication to all her varied pursuits through her time at Harvard.

At Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Dr. Altchek was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She was dedicated to her work in the community, creating and implementing a unique mental health and wellness curriculum in a local high school health class. She was recognized for her achievements and graduated with Distinction in Service to the Community. She also received multiple grants and scholarships from the Jewish Federation of Philadelphia in recognition of her academic and service commitment throughout medical school.

Dr. Altchek was heavily involved in medical education and the student experience at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson, serving as an elected member of the Student Government Association as well as being selected as a student representative on the medical school’s admissions committee. She acted as an interviewer and played an active role in selecting incoming medical school students and future physicians, where she learned what makes and sets apart the best medical school candidates.

Now a resident physician, Dr. Altchek continues to pursue her passion for medical education and mentorship by guiding students through applying to medical school and residency. As the first medical professional in her family, she appreciates the importance of having a thoughtful, knowledgeable guide through the application process. Students she has coached have been accepted to Harvard Medical School, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Washington University School of Medicine, UMass Chan School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, and others. 

One of Dr. Altchek’s greatest strengths as an advisor is her friendly, welcoming demeanor and open communication style. She is warm and inviting, enabling students to be their true and honest selves and put their best foot forward in the application process. The experience of applying to medical school and residency is a personal one, and Dr. Altchek is incredibly dedicated to finding the best fit for every individual, helping them grow and achieve each one of their personal goals along the way.

Dr. Altchek approaches each counseling session with a detailed, timely approach that keeps each person’s personal and professional goals at the top of mind. She enables students to be the experts in their own experience, taking the lead with strategic guidance and mentorship along the way. Her approach is well-rounded, allowing her to pay attention to all the details that comprise a successful applicant. Dr. Altchek loves the connection that close counseling can provide and aims to help and lift her future medical colleagues through the process to become the best physicians they can be!

Dr. Donohue's medical education journey began outside of Boston, where she attended Vanderbilt University. There, she pursued a diverse academic path, majoring in neuroscience, Spanish, and biology. During her time at Vanderbilt, Dr. Donohue gained experience that shaped her future success. She served as a pre-med advisor, providing guidance and support to fellow students navigating the path to medical school. Additionally, she engaged in clinical research, graduating with several first-author publications, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. She also volunteered at various organizations, including St. Jude's fundraising, a local food bank, and as an ESL instructor.

Dr. Donohue's exceptional academic achievements and diverse experiences paved the way for her admission to the T.H. Chan School of Medicine, where she was part of the Population-Based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track, focusing on population health and healthcare disparities. At T.H. Chan, she received several recognitions for her achievements , including the Leadership Award for Distinguished Service and the Outstanding Accomplishment in the Longitudinal Capstone Scholarship and Discovery Course. 

Dr. Donohue continued to excel, serving on the admissions committee and providing advice regarding the selection process. Dr. Donohue's community work also garnered recognition, as she was featured on local news channels for her efforts. During medical school, she also led advising groups and served as a medical school admission counselor, working with applicants one-on-one and in group settings. She was then accepted into her first-choice pediatric residency program.

Dr. Donohue thrived clinically at the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, where she received several awards to fund her research. She values meaningful patient connections and emphasizes the importance of enjoying life outside of medicine. She understands the complexities of navigating the path to becoming a doctor while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and she is committed to sharing her experiences and strategies with students.

With years of mentoring experience, Dr. Donohue has been guiding students since high school and continued through her undergraduate and medical school years. Now in residency, she provides self-empowerment and helps students lead their application cycles, offering guidance, advice, and edits while allowing them to take charge.

What sets Dr. Donohue apart as a consultant is her person-first focus. She believes that medical school is a unique experience that should fit personal needs and future desires, creating four years of great memories where one learns medicine and grows as a person. She prioritizes personal happiness in her life and with every student.

Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her detail-oriented approach and her ability to focus on both small details and big-picture thinking. She pays special attention to personal branding and how candidates present themselves in their applications, ensuring well-rounded care. With a strong focus on overall well-being, balance, and goal achievement, she takes an organized, hands-on approach that keeps students on track while fostering growth and confidence. Her ultimate goal is to guide students toward success—ensuring they gain admission to the program of their dreams.

Dr. Donohue approaches each counseling session with organization and focus, aiming to answer questions, alleviate anxieties, and organize students for a straightforward, task-based application process. Her passion for counseling stems from the support she received from countless mentors, networking calls, and advice throughout her journey. She feels indebted to them and is committed to giving back by helping guide the future of healthcare professionals.

Dr. Munoz graduated summa cum laude from California State University San Marcos with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry after being recruited to play softball for the university before attending Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Her impressive performance during the residency application process led to more than 20 interviews in her chosen specialty of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Ultimately, Dr. Munoz matched at a top 10 program in the country for this specialty, the University of Wisconsin, where she worked towards a fellowship in microsurgical reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Munoz's passion for advising and working with students stems from her own experiences and challenges throughout medical school and residency application processes. As the first in her family to graduate with a college degree, she overcame numerous obstacles in the preparation for and admission to medical school and residency, from which she learned immensely. This personal journey has fueled her desire to make the process more streamlined, straightforward, efficient, and successful for future students. She draws on her extensive training in communication, teaching, and leadership to guide students with clarity and confidence.

Dr. Munoz’s 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees, which she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals. She takes a flexible and student-centered approach, adapting quickly to each student’s needs and adjusting plans as necessary. Dr. Munoz fosters a friendly, approachable, and conversational atmosphere, ensuring students feel empowered throughout their journey. With a focus on positivity and patience, she builds students’ confidence by celebrating their progress and ensuring they fully understand the next steps.

Dr. Stone began his academic journey at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he graduated with a double major in biomedical sciences and pre-clinical health sciences. While at UCF, he was actively involved as an orientation leader, resident assistant, and biology tutor.

Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Stone received acceptances from several prestigious institutions but chose the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded the Dean’s Diversity Full Cost of Attendance Scholarship, covering the entire cost of attendance for four years of medical school. Upon graduation, Dr. Stone matched into a residency position at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, one of the nation’s top ophthalmology programs accepting only six residents per year.

Dr. Stone has an extensive research portfolio that includes studies on the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, advancements in diabetic retinopathy screening, and innovative approaches to addressing barriers in eye care. He has been published in multiple journals such as the Journal of Vascular Surgery, the Journal of Prehospital Emergency Care, and the Journal of Academic Ophthalmology, with multiple first-author manuscripts. His presentations at national conferences, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery, highlight his ability to translate complex topics into actionable insights.

As an admissions coach, Dr. Stone leverages his firsthand understanding of the challenges applicants face at every stage of the process. Drawing on his experience from both sides of the admissions table, he offers a personalized, compassionate approach. He excels at helping students identify their strengths, address vulnerabilities, and craft authentic narratives that resonate with admissions committees. 

Above all, Dr. Stone is passionate about shaping the next generation of physicians. By offering empathetic guidance and rigorous preparation, he ensures that every applicant he mentors has the tools to excel in medicine and beyond.

Dr. Lobos earned a BS in biomedical sciences from the University of Central Florida, where he was recognized as a Knights of Distinction Scholar and PRIME STEM Scholar. During medical school, Dr. Lobos conducted research at Stanford University’s Cardiovascular Institute, exploring metabolic and adipose-related disorders. He also conducted research at Boston University, where he investigated gene regulation through advanced molecular biology techniques. His research contributions and national presentations strengthened his evidence-based approach to science and mentorship.

Passionate about mentorship and community service, Dr. Lobos founded a tutoring and mentorship program for underrepresented pre-medical students at the University of Central Florida. He also served as a Spanish-speaking provider at Freeman’s Clinic in Washington, D.C., delivering free care to uninsured and undocumented patients. His leadership and service embody his commitment to equity and excellence in medicine.

As a medical admissions counselor, Dr. Lobos leverages his firsthand understanding of the admissions process to help applicants craft compelling, authentic narratives. His coaching style is honest, personalized, and empowering. As a first-generation college student and former undocumented immigrant, Dr. Lobos’ path to medicine has been shaped by resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of mentorship—values he now shares with every student he supports. He is deeply passionate about working with both underserved and traditional students, helping them navigate the complex path to medical school with confidence and authenticity.

Dr. Wu earned his undergraduate degree at the University of California, Berkeley, where he double majored in psychology and biochemistry. After graduation, he spent four years away from formal training, working in roles that included high-level MCAT instruction and pharmaceutical clinical research. During this time, he contributed to Phase III clinical trials in Alzheimer’s disease biologics and advanced into a management role—experiences that sharpened his scientific knowledge and leadership skills, even before starting his career in medicine.

During medical school, Dr. Wu served as Class President of his cohort. During residency, he was elected Chief Resident for multiple years. Now serving in multiple leadership roles through the Permanente Medical Group, Inc., Dr. Wu oversees clinical operations, drives quality improvement initiatives, advances physician and healthcare worker education, and leads physician recruitment and development. He has built strong hiring pipelines with residency programs such as UCSD and Stanford, and frequently lectures residents on professional growth, regional anesthesia, and career planning.

As a coach, Dr. Wu blends strategic insight with empathy, drawing from his experiences as an applicant, Chief Resident, board-certified anesthesiologist, and physician recruiter. He helps applicants refine their personal statements, craft cohesive narratives, and excel in interviews with authenticity and confidence. 

Dr. Wu has firsthand knowledge of the application and acceptance process at multiple levels, including medical school and residency, where he served on admission committees evaluating candidates. His greatest strength is his ability to highlight each student’s individuality while equipping them with the tools to succeed in highly competitive admissions processes. He has a unique 360-degree perspective on the entire process of becoming a doctor, from applying to medicine to now practicing as a board-certified anesthesiologist. Dr. Wu’s balance of professional expertise, mentorship, and personal warmth makes him a trusted guide for applicants navigating the journey to medical school and residency.

Dr. Adjei offers students a unique perspective drawn from her experience evaluating applications and interviewing prospective students for both Tufts University School of Medicine and Cedars-Sinai’s General Surgery Residency Program. Her thoughtful, student-centered approach helps applicants confidently navigate the complexities of medical school and residency admissions.

Throughout her career, Dr. Adjei has been dedicated to supporting students, whether as a Faculty Advisor for the National Youth Leadership Forum in Medicine or as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ambassador during residency. Her leadership roles, including serving as Administrative Chief Resident, reflect her commitment to fostering excellence and collaboration in medicine.

In addition to her clinical training, Dr. Adjei has an active research portfolio with publications and presentations in transplantation and organ utilization, bringing a breadth of academic and professional expertise to her advising. Drawing on her experience as both an applicant and a reviewer, she provides students with practical, personalized guidance on navigating the highly competitive process of medical school and residency admissions.

What sets Dr. Adjei apart is her ability to connect with students on a personal level. She understands the resilience, curiosity, and heart it takes to pursue medicine, and she takes pride in helping applicants discover their authentic stories and showcase their strengths with confidence. With her background in leadership, research, and clinical excellence, she brings not only expertise but also a genuine passion for mentorship.

Dr. Adjei knows how challenging and competitive the journey to medical school and residency can feel, and she’s committed to guiding students through every step with encouragement, strategy, and insight. Dr. Adjei believes that every student’s journey into medicine is unique and worth celebrating—and she’s dedicated to helping them succeed while staying true to themselves.

Before attending medical school, Dr. Prigoff graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor's degree in economics. During his sophomore year, he was accepted into Mount Sinai's FlexMed Early Acceptance Program, a highly selective pathway for undergraduate students. At the Icahn School of Medicine, Dr. Prigoff distinguished himself academically and in leadership. He was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Society and received the Dr. Arthur H. Aufses, Sr. Prize in Surgery, awarded to the top-performing student in the surgical clerkship. He also earned the AOA Medical Student Service Leadership Project Award, the Specialty Focused Mentoring Program Award in General Surgery, Distinction in Research, and the Dean's Commendation for Service.

Dr. Prigoff went on to complete his general surgery residency and a surgical education research fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, where he spent a year teaching at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and reviewing applications for the Columbia General Surgery Residency program.

Dr. Prigoff is an accomplished researcher with over 15 peer-reviewed publications and more than 20 presentations at national and international conferences. His work has appeared in journals including the Annals of Surgery, the Journal of Surgical Education, the American Journal of Surgery, the Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery, and JCO Oncology Practice. He has also authored book chapters, including one on immunology in First Aid for the Basic Sciences and another on teaching robotic surgery in the Atlas of Robotic General Surgery. His research on the effect of surgical trainee education on opioid prescribing was selected for oral presentation at the Clinical Congress of the American College of Surgeons, and his work on resource conservation in breast surgery was awarded "Best of SSO" by the Society of Surgical Oncology. Dr. Prigoff has also been featured in national media, including as a guest speaker at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center's Survivorship Day and in a CBS News segment.

Dr. Prigoff now serves as Chief Medical Officer of a diagnostics startup and as a venture capital investor in healthcare and life sciences. He also serves on the External Advisory Board of the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics. 

Dr. Prigoff has a strong academic pedigree, industry experience, and a long-held interest in medical education. Students he has coached have been accepted to or matched into medical programs at Columbia University, Yale University, Cornell University, and Massachusetts General Hospital. His experiences provide a valuable perspective on how students can be academically rigorous while also exploring their innovative side to appeal to competitive programs. 

Dr. Saleh began her higher education journey by attending Rutgers University, where she graduated with a BA in English and biological sciences, along with a minor in women & gender studies. During her undergraduate years, she maintained a high GPA and received multiple honors, including the SAS Excellence Award.

She went on to graduate with an  MD from New York University School of Medicine, where she was recognized with awards such as the Joseph E. Constantine Award for Outstanding Scholarly Work in Obstetrics & Gynecology, the Alex Rosen Award for Excellence in Medicine and the Humanities, and the American Medical Women’s Association Medical Education Award. 

Dr. Saleh then completed an OB/GYN residency at NYU, serving as Research & Quality Improvement Chief Resident and Chief Diversity Ambassador, before pursuing a prestigious gynecologic oncology fellowship at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She joined Capital Health Medical Center in New Jersey as a gynecologic oncologist, where she continues to provide compassionate, cutting-edge care.

With more than 20 peer-reviewed publications and numerous accolades—including GME Learner of the Month at Mount Sinai—Dr. Saleh’s research focuses on racial and ethnic disparities in gynecologic cancer care. 

Alongside her clinical and research endeavors, Dr. Saleh leverages over a decade of mentorship experience to guide prospective medical students and residents through the admissions process, bringing an invaluable perspective to each candidate’s applications. She considers personal statement review to be one of her greatest strengths and is passionate about helping students showcase their best selves through their application narratives. She takes the time to truly get to know each applicant, learning about their unique traits and experiences that will set them apart from the crowd in the application process.

Dr. Bregio's educational journey began at the Honors College at Miami Dade College, where she graduated with Highest Honors and Distinction. She later transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Carolina Covenant Scholar, a distinction that ensured her a debt-free undergraduate education. At both institutions, Dr. Bregio actively participated in community service, mentorship, and research initiatives, receiving several accolades for her academic achievement and community impact. Her dedication to scientific research culminated in the completion of a senior honors thesis in chemistry, poster presentations, and publication in a peer-reviewed journal. After graduating, she spent a year as a research fellow at the National Institute of Health through an Intramural Research Training Award (IRTA) Fellowship.

As a medical student at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Bregio further cultivated her passion for research, patient care advocacy, and mentorship. Her clinical and scientific endeavors in health equity and cancer care resulted in multiple oral presentations at the national level, peer-reviewed publications, and awards for her outstanding achievements, including the Scholars in Oncology Associated Research (SOAR) Grant. She remained steadfast in her commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in medicine by mentoring underrepresented students and actively contributing to the medical school admissions process. 

Dr. Bregio's leadership and dedication to admissions work led to her invitation to serve as a voting member of the admissions committee during medical school, an honor extended to only 12 students in the class. In this role, she served as a primary student interviewer during the admissions cycle and reviewed, evaluated, and presented candidates at committee meetings. Before this, she spent three years interviewing candidates and served as the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) admissions representative, leading dialogue between current and prospective URM students during interview day activities.

As an admissions coach, Dr. Bregio encourages students to break down the application timeline into manageable steps, recognizing that a systematic approach is pivotal for reaching milestones without burning out or feeling rushed. She enjoys helping students tell their stories and highlight their strengths through their personal statement narratives, providing constructive feedback, and engaging students in reflection to identify and dig deeper into underdeveloped areas. She is also proficient in Spanish.

During her undergraduate years, Dr. Malone gained valuable experience working as a direct care professional in a group home for adults with disabilities. This role not only exposed her to the challenges and rewards of providing care to vulnerable populations but also strengthened her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others through healthcare.

Dr. Malone is currently conducting research at the intersection of women's health and diabetes prevention. As a peer tutor with years of experience helping medical students and teaching biology to college students, Dr. Malone has honed her ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and provide the support and guidance students need to excel academically. Her recent recognition as a Head Tutor at her medical school is a testament to her exceptional teaching skills. 

Dr. Malone also has experience helping out-of-state students earn acceptance to schools throughout the country. Her time on the student admissions team at UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, recognized as one of the most competitive states for medical school admissions, has equipped her with a deep understanding of what it takes to stand out in a highly competitive applicant pool. 

One of Dr. Malone's greatest strengths is her ability to help students craft a powerful narrative throughout their medical school application. She works closely with each student to identify their strengths and experiences, using this information to create a compelling story that captures the attention of admissions committees.

Dr. Malone combines a structured and goal-oriented approach with a warm, approachable style. She believes in clear organization, step-by-step guidance, and measurable milestones to keep students on track while ensuring they understand how each step fits into the bigger picture. Her advising is both analytical and efficient, using logic-driven, evidence-based methods to maximize each session’s impact. Dr. Malone loves helping students select schools that fit their goals and encourages them to dream big, providing the support and guidance they need to turn their aspirations into reality.

Dr. Komar was a QuestBridge Scholar who received his Bachelor’s in biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania and completed both an MS in chemistry and an MS in immunology. His thesis research focused on developing CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing and screening technologies, an endeavor for which he was honored with a Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Individual Fellowship (F31).

For four years, Dr. Komar worked for Penn Biotech Group (PBG) Healthcare Consulting, a student-run organization at UPenn. Throughout his tenure, he transitioned into multiple roles, including Project Director, Vice President of Business Development, and eventually President of the organization. 

Dr. Komar's approach to mentoring is highly personalized, as he recognizes that each student has different aspirations, strengths, and challenges. By understanding each applicant's goals and experiences, he tailors his guidance to their needs, empowering them to navigate their path to success. His mentoring philosophy is grounded in the belief that meticulous planning, thorough preparation, and a positive mindset are the key ingredients to achieving one's objectives.

Drawing upon his own success in the medical school admissions process and his experience as a mentor, Dr. Komar provides strategic advice and support to help students develop applications that stand out from the crowd. From brainstorming essay narratives to providing feedback on personal statements and conducting mock interviews, he guarantees that students will present their best selves to admissions committees. Students he’s worked with have been accepted to medical programs at Yale, Columbia, NYU, Penn, Thomas Jefferson, Temple, and Vanderbilt.

Beyond the application process, Dr. Komar is committed to helping students develop the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary to thrive in medical school and beyond. As a researcher who has conducted groundbreaking work, he is well-equipped to guide students interested in pursuing careers at the forefront of medical research and innovation.

Dr. Watson earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Prairie View A&M University. During college, Dr. Watson was a member of the TriBeta Biological Honors Society and President of the Beta Kappa Chi/National Leadership Institute. She also received the Biological/Physical Science Department STEAM/STEM Research Symposium Award. During medical school, Dr. Watson served as a member of the American Medical Association and American College of Physicians and Student Osteopathic Medical Association. She also served as the former Osteopathic Schools Committee Co-Chair for the Student National Medical Association. 

During her time at Holzer Health System, Dr. Watson served as an admissions advisor, interviewing prospective family medicine residents. Dr. Watson understands that every applicant brings a unique story, set of experiences, strengths, and challenges to the admissions process. Her advising approach is grounded in active listening, organization, strategic planning, accountability, and personalized guidance. She takes the time to understand each student's goals while helping them recognize and communicate the qualities that make them a strong candidate for medical school. 

From developing a cohesive application strategy and refining personal statements to strengthening interview skills and preparing for challenging questions, Dr. Watson works closely with students to help them present their most authentic and competitive selves. Her motivation to be a counselor is deeply rooted in her passion for celebrating students' successes, identifying opportunities for growth, and providing the accountability necessary to keep them moving forward. Committed to being a loyal advocate and trusted mentor throughout the admissions journey, Dr. Watson looks forward to helping each student approach their professional journey with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Before attending medical school, Dr. Chang graduated from Binghamton University, State University of New York, with a BA in biology. He went on to earn an MD from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and a DDS from the University of University of Southern California School of Dentistry. At Columbia, Dr. Chang completed his residency training in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, followed by fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of South Florida. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Chang has held faculty and educational leadership positions at several medical schools and academic institutions, including Columbia University, the University of South Florida, California Northstate University College of Medicine, and the California University of Science and Medicine. Dr. Chang has served as Director of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of South Florida and Director of Facial Plastic Surgery Education at Columbia University. He also served as Chief of Physician Education for over 18 years, a role in which he led the continuing medical education program at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa Medical Center. Dr. Chang now serves as a professor at California University of Science and Medicine. 

Dr. Chang served for years as an oral board examiner for the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and has been a California Medical Association (CMA) accreditation surveyor as well as a member of the CMA accreditation committee for continuing medical education and ambulatory surgery centers. He completed advanced faculty development training at the University of California, San Francisco, and the Harvard Macy Institute. Dr. Chang’s scholarly work includes peer-reviewed publications in Facial Plastic Surgery, Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, and Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 

Dr. Chang has extensive experience mentoring medical students and physicians, advising students on specialty and career decisions, supporting residency preparation and the Match process, and participating in medical education and accreditation activities. As an admissions coach, Dr. Chang brings the perspective of someone who has spent his career both practicing medicine and educating future physicians. He particularly enjoys helping students identify the experiences and personal qualities that distinguish them, develop an authentic narrative, and present their accomplishments in a way that allows admissions committees to understand not simply what they have done, but why they are prepared for a career in medicine.

Before attending medical school, Dr. Johnson graduated magna cum laude from the University of Montana with a degree in health and human performance. During college, he served as an anatomy and physiology teaching assistant. He also completed a post-baccalaureate program while working as a phlebotomist at Community Medical Center in Missoula. During that time, he gained vaccine research experience at the University of Montana's Center for Translational Medicine, where he worked as a research intern and later as a laboratory technician. 

Dr. Johnson went on to conduct dermatology research in the Simpson Lab at the University of Washington before starting his (ASCI) Physician Scientist Support Foundation Fellowship. He is completing a transitional year at Tucson Medical Center before beginning dermatology residency at the University of Colorado School of Medicine on the Investigative Training (2+2) Track. 

Dr. Johnson currently mentors medical students through the University of Washington, advising students pursuing competitive specialties, including dermatology and internal medicine. He has also volunteered extensively as a pre-medical mentor, working with students from diverse backgrounds and at every stage of the medical school application process. With five years of mentorship experience, he has helped numerous students gain acceptance to medical schools across the country.

Throughout his own journey, Dr. Johnson recognized how instrumental his mentors were in helping him achieve his goals. This experience inspired him to provide the same guidance and support to pre-med students. His philosophy is centered on helping students recognize what makes them unique, and teaches them how to communicate their best qualities effectively throughout the application process. He meets each student where they are and tailors his guidance to their individual experiences, goals, strengths, and concerns.

As a first-generation medical student and non-traditional applicant, Dr. Johnson strives to be a consistent and supportive presence, taking the time to understand not only who students are as future physicians but also their values and aspirations outside of medicine. Dr. Johnson is genuinely committed to helping students navigate the complexities of the medical school admissions process and pursue their goals with confidence.

During her undergraduate years, Dr. Konisky developed an early commitment to medicine through volunteer work at Boston Medical Center and clinical research at Massachusetts General Hospital. These experiences gave her early exposure to both patient care and medical research and helped shape her interest in a career that combines service, scholarship, and clinical medicine. She was a member of Northeastern’s University Honors Program, received Dean’s List honors every semester, and received multiple scholarships, including the Presidential Scholarship, NAES Corporation Scholarship, and Alan Peabody Scholarship.

At Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr. Konisky continued to distinguish herself through clinical medicine, research, and mentorship. She served as a peer mentor and peer tutor during her final three years of medical school and was selected as an Orientation Leader for two incoming classes. She also mentored medical and high school students through every stage of research development, from project conception and study design to manuscript preparation and publication. Working with students at different stages of their academic journeys taught Dr. Konisky the importance of meeting each student where they are and tailoring her guidance to their individual goals, strengths, and areas for growth.

Dr. Konisky’s commitment to research has been recognized through multiple academic honors, including the Einstein Summer Research Fellowship, Einstein Research Fellowship, Ratner Endowment in Pharmacology, Dean’s Recognition Award, and designation as an Early Distinction in Research. Her scholarly work has resulted in more than 30 peer-reviewed publications in multiple prestigious journals, including the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Archives of Dermatological Research, the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, and Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, among others. After med school, Dr. Konisky completed her PGY-1 at Albany Medical Center and is currently pursuing residency training at the Albert Montefiore Einstein Division of Dermatology. 

As a coach, Dr. Konisky emphasizes individualized strategy, attention to detail, and authentic storytelling. She believes that the strongest applications are those that clearly communicate an applicant's unique assets, values, accomplishments, and goals rather than simply fulfilling a checklist of conventional activities. She works collaboratively with each student to identify their strengths, address areas for growth, and develop a cohesive plan to make the application process less overwhelming. Dr. Konisky provides big-picture strategic guidance and detailed feedback, whether helping students identify meaningful opportunities, refine personal statements and application materials, prepare for interviews, or formulate an overall medical school application strategy. She views mentorship as an opportunity not only to strengthen an applicant's candidacy but also to help students make thoughtful decisions about their academic and professional futures.

Dr. Konisky is passionate about mentorship because she understands firsthand how challenging the path to medicine can be. Having successfully navigated both the medical school and residency application processes, she understands the complexity, competitiveness, and personal investment required at each stage of medical training. Dr. Konisky's experience allows her to provide applicants with practical, informed guidance while also offering students an empathetic and supportive perspective throughout the process. 

Dr. Herber earned a Bachelor of Science in physiology from the University of Arizona and subsequently completed the Advanced Core in Medical Sciences (ACMS) Postbaccalaureate Program at Temple University. During his time in medical school, Dr. Herber has served on admissions committees at both the medical school and surgical residency levels, working as an application reviewer and student interviewer. Dr. Herber graduated within the top 10% of his class and was inducted into Sigma Sigma Phi. 

Dr. Herber currently serves as a resident liaison to medical students affiliated with the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, and as a research resident mentor and advisor through an educational initiative supporting students pursuing plastic and general surgery, the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (PRS) Matrix Initiative. In this role, he has helped students by conducting application reviews, running mock interviews, and creating rank lists. 

After completing his residency, Dr. Herber plans to pursue a surgical subspecialty fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery with an emphasis in hand and microsurgery. His scholarly work spans vascular, orthopedic, plastic, hand, and complex reconstructive surgery. He has contributed to peer-reviewed studies in the Journal of Global Infectious Diseases, the International Journal of Orthopedics, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Cureus, and other publications. He has also presented this research at regional, national, and international conferences.

Dr. Herber brings a combination of personal experience, academic insight, and a genuine commitment to helping aspiring physicians achieve their goals. As a first-generation physician, he understands that applying to medical school is about far more than grades, test scores, and a list of accomplishments—it’s about understanding one's own story, recognizing what has shaped it, and communicating why one is called to become a physician.

Dr. Herber’s coaching philosophy centers on mentorship, authenticity, preparation, and continuous growth. He provides constructive, honest feedback while creating a supportive environment where applicants feel comfortable asking questions, working through areas for growth, and building confidence. Whether refining a personal statement, strengthening activity descriptions, preparing for interviews, or developing an overall application strategy, Dr. Herber offers practical guidance and empowers applicants to take ownership of their path and present their strongest, most authentic selves. He is passionate about coaching medical school applicants because he recognizes how meaningful—and often overwhelming—the path to medicine can be.

Before attending Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Chesnick graduated from the University of Arizona with dual degrees in physiology and molecular and cellular biology, along with minors in Spanish and biochemistry. During her undergraduate years, she was named to the Dean's List and worked as a medical scribe and tutor, gaining early exposure to clinical medicine and mentorship. These experiences, combined with her fluency in Spanish, laid the foundation for her commitment to serving diverse and underserved patient populations.

At Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Chesnick served as Student Body President and was elected Class Representative throughout medical school. She earned membership in both Sigma Sigma Phi, the national osteopathic honor society, and the Gold Humanism Honor Society, recognizing her commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. She matched into her first-choice residency program at HCA HealthONE Aurora, where she was recognized with the Intern of the Year Award. She now serves as Chief Resident of her program. 

Dr. Chesnick has seven years of admissions committee experience, serving as an admissions committee and interviewer at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine and HCA HealthONE Aurora. Throughout her numerous leadership roles, she has mentored many students through the application process, and is equipped to help students stand out in interviews and rotations. Students she has coached have earned acceptances to the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, among others.

After finishing her residency, Dr. Chesnick plans to complete a family medicine obstetrics fellowship. Her clinical work focuses on caring for underserved communities, including unhoused populations, undocumented patients, and global health initiatives. Dr. Chesnick is passionate about bridging the physician gap for patients in underserved communities and plans to practice on the Navajo Nation following residency.

Dr. Chesnick is committed to helping students find their "why" in medicine, encouraging a humanitarian approach to healthcare where empathy is seen as a strength, and patient advocacy is a priority. Her approach is empathetic and empowering, and she hopes to impart communication tips, life-skills, efficiency and organizational skills to help students seamlessly excel in the application process. Dr. Chesnick emphasizes the importance of whole-person wellness throughout the application journey. She has multiple hobbies and continues to travel, explore, and learn about the world. She is dedicated to integrating this approach into her counseling style and helping students "stay safe and sane" despite the demands that each step of medical training brings.

Dr. Chesnick’s passion for mentorship reflects the wisdom she has inherited from physicians, midwives, and community leaders who supported her journey throughout school and training. Dr. Chesnick attributes her success to the community she has built, and strongly believes in the value of individualized mentorship throughout medical training. Dr. Chesnick aims to help students highlight their strengths, encourage a growth mindset, and wholeheartedly support applicants to build a sense of both professional and life balance. She is excited to be a part of your journey and grateful to be the type of mentor she was so fortunate to have throughout her life!

Dr. Le graduated from the University of California, Riverside (UCR) with a BS in biological sciences with an emphasis in medical biology. After completing his undergraduate degree, he pursued a post-baccalaureate program at Touro University California, where he earned an MS in medical health sciences. This additional preparation reinforced his academic foundation and deepened his commitment to pursuing a career in medicine.

During medical school, Dr. Le served as a student admissions ambassador, providing tours on interview days and helping host open houses and campus events. After graduating, he returned to ATSU-SOMA as an Assistant Professor, where he interviewed prospective medical students as part of the admissions process. During his family medicine residency, he expanded his admissions experience by interviewing prospective residents and helping rank applicants for Match Day. Dr. Le is also passionate about community health and has participated in medical mission trips to Vietnam, providing free medical care to underserved communities. Dr. Le contributed to wet lab research during his undergraduate studies at UCR, resulting in two publications in the Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry. 

Dr. Le is a board-certified family medicine physician and is currently pursuing a second residency in anesthesiology at the University at Buffalo. Dr. Le’s experience as both an applicant and admissions professional gives him a unique perspective on the medical school and residency application process. He understands the challenges applicants face because he has navigated the process himself, and his experience interviewing prospective medical students helps him understand how admissions evaluates applications. One of Dr. Le's greatest strengths as a coach is helping applicants identify and communicate what makes them unique. He believes the strongest applications tell a cohesive and authentic story about an applicant's motivations, experiences, and goals. His coaching approach is personalized, structured, and collaborative, giving students clear, actionable feedback while letting them maintain ownership of their stories.

As the child of immigrants and the first physician in his family, Dr. Le genuinely understands the challenges of navigating the application process. He is committed to paying forward the support he received when he was applying by helping aspiring physicians approach the admissions process with confidence, clarity, and authenticity.

Before attending Ponce Health Sciences University, Dr. Rivera Rodriguez graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a Bachelor of Science in biology. During medical school, she served as Vice President of her class and helped coordinate a medical student conference with more than 300 attendees. After earning her MD, she interned at Hospital Oncológico de Puerto Rico before beginning her transitional year. Now a preventive medicine resident, Dr. Rivera Rodriguez is also pursuing a Master of Public Health at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. 

Throughout her training, Dr. Rivera Rodriguez has developed extensive experience in medical education, mentorship, and applicant evaluation. As an interviewer and application reviewer, she has evaluated candidates' personal statements, clinical experiences, and extracurricular activities using standardized criteria and has contributed to post-interview ranking discussions. As Chief Resident, she mentors incoming residents and collaborates with faculty on curriculum development. She also developed and coordinated a culinary medicine elective for fourth-year medical students at UMass Chan, incorporating evidence-based nutrition education into medical training. She has also taught lifestyle medicine, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and chronic disease prevention in community settings, including medical respite and senior center programs.

Dr. Rivera Rodriguez's research and scholarly interests center on preventive medicine, lifestyle medicine, nutrition, health equity, and food insecurity. She is a core research team member of a randomized controlled trial examining medically-tailored groceries and mental health outcomes among food-insecure patients with depression. She has authored a case report on adult ileocolic intussusception published on Authorea and has presented at national conferences, including meetings of the American College of Preventive Medicine and the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. 

Dr. Rivera Rodriguez believes that what sets an applicant apart is not necessarily the most impressive list of accomplishments, but something genuine and distinctive that helps an admissions committee remember them. She enjoys helping students uncover those qualities and finding ways to highlight them authentically throughout their applications. She also emphasizes the importance of character, recognizing that qualities such as kindness, respect, curiosity, and approachability matter deeply in the people who will become physicians. 

As an admissions coach, Dr. Rivera Rodriguez’s style is collaborative, practical, and individualized, and she encourages students to reflect on their goals, experiences, and the kind of physician they hope to become. Her goal is to help students present not only what they have accomplished, but who they are and what they will bring to the medical profession. Whether she’s helping a student develop an application timeline, refine a personal statement, choose meaningful experiences, or prepare for an interview, she gives them clear next steps while adapting her approach to their needs. Her coaching ultimately helps students move forward with clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of direction.

Dr. Daniel earned a Bachelor of Science in physiology and neurobiology from the University of Maryland, College Park. A first-generation college student and the son of Ethiopian immigrants, Dr. Daniel came to medicine by way of public policy. He served as a White House intern and briefly worked in the United States Senate before medical school. That path shaped how he thinks about applications: he understands firsthand that sometimes, the most compelling candidates are the ones with the most conventional resumes, and he is at home working with applicants whose stories don’t follow a straight line.

During medical school, Dr. Daniel earned a merit scholarship and spent four years as an admissions interviewer, developing insight into how candidates are evaluated at the application review and interview stages. He has remained active in medical education and advocacy, currently serving as an Internal Medicine Delegate to the Committee of Interns and Residents, where he represents physicians in training and advocates for his colleagues. 

Dr. Daniel's peer-reviewed research has been published in Nature Scientific Reports, World Neurosurgery, the Rhode Island Medical Journal, and Cureus. He also contributed a chapter on FDA new drug applications to the medical textbook Translational Pulmonology. Dr. Daniel is a medical contributor with the ABC News Medical Unit, where he has published eight bylined health stories and helped produce national broadcast segments for Good Morning America and ABC News Live. He is also the creator of POCUSTips, a free point-of-care ultrasound reference app for clinicians and trainees. 

With six years of coaching experience, Dr. Daniel brings both recent firsthand knowledge and a genuine investment in each applicant's success. What sets him apart as a coach is how recently he has walked the road himself. Having navigated both medical school admissions and the residency match process, he knows what selection committees are actually reading for and can tell an applicant candidly when an essay is working and when it isn't. 

Before attending NYITCOM, Dr. Mohama graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish while completing the pre-medical track. She was awarded a Presidential Scholarship at Loyola, a merit-based distinction recognizing her academic achievement. Her bilingual studies and scientific coursework laid the foundation for a career bridging clinical medicine, education, and cross-cultural communication.

During medical school, Dr. Mohama served on the admissions committee at NYITCOM, where she reviewed and screened applicant materials and evaluated personal statements. She also worked independently with pre-med students, providing guidance on personal statements, activity descriptions, school lists, and overall application strategy. She also contributed to peer-reviewed research, with a publication in Critical Reviews in Immunology. Currently, Dr. Mohama serves as a Junior Inpatient Chief Resident in her psychiatry residency program. Having evaluated applicants at multiple stages of medical training, she understands what interviewers and admissions committees look for and how applicants can communicate their strengths effectively.

Dr. Mohama believes that a strong application should give admissions committees a genuine sense of who an applicant is, what has shaped them, and what they will bring to a medical school community. She particularly enjoys helping students identify the experiences, values, and qualities that make them unique, and then translate those strengths into an application that feels cohesive, confident, and authentic. Her coaching style is collaborative, honest, and individualized, and she works with each student to understand their goals, experiences, and strengths. 

As a Syrian-American who speaks English, Spanish, and Arabic, Dr. Mohama values the perspectives that different cultures, identities, and life experiences bring to medicine. Her own background has reinforced her belief that applicants should feel comfortable embracing what makes them different and allowing those qualities to become part of their story. Her goal is to give students the perspective, guidance, and confidence to navigate the admissions process and put forward the strongest version of themselves.

Before medical school, Dr. Kokikian graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles, where she earned a BS in psychobiology with a minor in entrepreneurship and multiple Dean’s List recognitions. During her undergraduate years, she served as a Department Coordinator Lead for the UCLA Health Care Extender Clinical Internship, a competitive hospital volunteer program that deepened her commitment to clinical medicine and patient care. In this role, she served on the program’s admissions committee for three years, evaluating over 1,000 applicants and interviewing hundreds of candidates.

In medical school, Dr. Kokikian pursued a wide range of opportunities in research, teaching, and mentorship. She was awarded the National Institutes of Health Medical Student Training in Aging Research (MSTAR) Scholarship, a nationally competitive research training program. As a dermatology research fellow at UCLA, she studied reflectance confocal microscopy and artificial intelligence to develop noninvasive approaches to diagnosing melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers. Her work involved developing novel imaging protocols, collaborating with engineers, and contributing to multiple first- and second-author research projects.

Dr. Kokikian's scholarly contributions include publications in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, JAAD Case Reports, Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, Cutis, and SAGE Open Medical Case Reports, among others. She received the Best Poster Award from the Pacific Dermatologic Association for her work on noninvasive virtual histology to distinguish malignant from benign cutaneous squamous neoplasms. 

Dr. Kokikian's greatest strength as a coach is her ability to see the person behind the application. Her coaching approach is individualized, collaborative, and centered on honesty, encouragement, and attention to detail. Whether helping an applicant work through their personal statement, activity descriptions, interview preparation, or overall application strategy, she helps students uncover the experiences that make their stories unique. Dr. Kokikian is passionate about coaching because she genuinely enjoys teaching and mentoring others, and she finds it especially rewarding to help students gain confidence in their stories and navigate the admissions process with greater clarity.