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Undergrad: Harvard University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
Dr. Manghis completed her undergraduate studies at Harvard College, where she earned an AB in social studies with a thesis exploring the ethics of foreign aid and NGO culture in Tanzania. Her early experiences abroad—teaching HIV/AIDS education in rural Tanzania and conducting ethnographic research on global health interventions—sparked a lifelong commitment to equity in healthcare access and delivery. She was awarded the Harvard College Research Program Grant and Harvard Book Award, and also received a full-tuition scholarship as a Nantucket Scholar.
During medical school, Dr. Manghis received multiple awards, including the John Efstathiou Memorial Award for compassion in patient care, the American Women’s Medical Association Glasgow-Rubin Citation for Academic Achievement, and a Capstone Merit Award for outstanding research. She also won second place for best poster at the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology Annual Meeting and received the Psychiatry Department Award at the Massachusetts General Hospital for best abstract. Dr. Manghis was awarded numerous scholarships, including the Massachusetts Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) Scholarship, Beinecke Health Scholarship, Kappa Kappa Gamma Scholarship, and others.
At UCSF, Dr. Manghis conducts research at the intersection of preventive cardiology and health disparities. Beyond research, Dr. Manghis is deeply committed to mentorship and education. She serves as a small group facilitator at UCSF, teaching preclinical students about cardiomyopathies and point-of-care ultrasound. She has spent ten years as an alumni interviewer for Harvard and has mentored several students through the process of applying to medical school through her roles as a Harvard pre-medical tutor and UMass post-baccalaureate pre-medical advisor. Her strengths as a coach lie in her warmth, empathy, and ability to help applicants articulate their authentic motivations for medicine while highlighting their unique experiences.
Dr. Manghis’s approach to coaching is student-centered and narrative-driven. She believes that every applicant has a compelling story to tell and utilizes her social science background to bring out each individual’s voice with clarity and confidence. Her passion for mentorship stems from the guidance she received from mentors who shaped her own path in medicine, and she seeks to pay that forward by helping others achieve their professional goals.
Undergrad: Harvard University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
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Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dr. Madnawat has been recognized with numerous distinctions, including the Tylenol Future Care Scholarship, Excellence in Service Award from the Health Resource Center Clinics, and third place for research poster from the Missouri Chapter of the American College of Physicians. Her scholarly work on peripartum cardiomyopathy, chronotropic incompetence, and liver transplant ischemia-reperfusion injury has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national conferences. Her work has been published in Nutrition and Clinical Practice, Experimental Biology and Medicine, Heart Rhythm, and other prestigious journals.
For over five years, Dr. Madnawat has supported numerous students through competitive medical school and residency admissions cycles. She focuses on helping applicants refine personal statements, prepare for interviews, and present their strengths clearly and effectively. Her strengths as a coach include strategic planning, clear communication, and the ability to bring out each applicant’s unique story in a compelling way.
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: College of William & Mary
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Dr. Luoma-Overstreet grew up moving from place to place, living in Nicaragua, Mexico, Benin, South Africa, Poland, and Argentina. She developed an early love for science, and while at the College of William & Mary, she had the opportunity to work as a personal aide to a young woman with special needs. This experience helped transform her love of science into a passion for human medicine. During college, Dr. Luoma-Overstreet taught anatomy and CPR/First Aid at Yale University’s EXPLO Summer Program. She graduated magna cum laude from William & Mary with a BS in neuroscience and biochemistry and spent a year as an NIH post-baccalaureate fellow before attending VCU.
In medical school, Dr. Luoma-Overstreet continued her extracurricular involvement through research, tutoring and counseling, coaching a sports team, and volunteering as an interpreter at a local free clinic. She founded a project to collect and redistribute MCAT study resources from medical students to local college students, participated on the medical school interview board, and led educational workshops for pre-medical students. After graduation, she spent a year in an agricultural town in northern Argentina, where she became closely involved with the obstetrics center at the local hospital. That experience, among others, ultimately led her to pursue a career in OB-GYN. Dr. Luoma-Overstreet matched into UCSF Fresno’s OB/GYN with her fiancé, an orthopedic surgery resident.
Dr. Luoma-Overstreet’s research spans several disciplines, including ophthalmology, cardiology, and neurology, with publications in International Journal of Molecular Epidemiology and Genetics, Nature Communications, JACC: Case Reports, Global Heart, Ophthalmic Genetics, and Neurology Journals. Her work has been recognized with multiple first-place awards for research presentations and the VCU Dean’s Research Fellowship. She also secured an academic scholarship at VCU and was awarded the Commonwealth SOM Scholars Award for four years, as well as the Glasgow-Rubin Citation for Academic Achievement from the American Medical Women’s Association.
As a first-generation healthcare provider, Dr. Luoma-Overstreet deeply values the mentors who have supported her along the way—an influence that has inspired her commitment to coaching and mentorship. As a BS/MD admissions counselor, she draws on her experience as a tutor, coach, and member of admissions committees in both medical school and residency to help students get accepted to the nation’s top joint medical programs. She helps applicants identify and highlight their unique strengths while keeping them organized and confident throughout the process.
Undergrad: College of William & Mary
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Richmond
Medical School: The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
Before starting his medical school journey, Dr. Painter graduated with a BS in biology from the University of Richmond. As an undergraduate, he earned numerous awards recognizing both his research and leadership, including the Clarence J. Gray Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Leadership, the William Myers Inorganic Chemistry Award, and the Pinchbeck Prize. He also worked in the University of Richmond Office of Admissions as a high school recruiter.
Dr. Painter earned a BS in biology from the University of Richmond. As an undergraduate, he earned numerous awards recognizing both his research and leadership, including the Clarence J. Gray Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Leadership, the William Myers Inorganic Chemistry Award, the Most Significant Class Contributor Award, and the Pinchbeck Prize. He also worked in the University of Richmond Office of Admissions as a high school recruiter.
Before attending medical school, Dr. Painter conducted research on viral pathogenesis at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, serving as a visiting graduate student in ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. During medical school, Dr. Painter was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. He also served as an interview day tour guide and panelist for prospective medical students.
An avid researcher, Dr. Painter has published more than 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts, textbook chapters, and abstracts on topics including radiology, sports medicine, medical education, virology, and nephrology. Dr. Painter has been published in multiple prestigious medical journals, including the Journal of the American College of Cardiology Case Reports, PLoS Pathogens, the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Global Research and Reviews, the Orthopedic Journal of Sports Medicine, and the Journal of Arthroplasty. He has presented his research at national and international conferences.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Painter has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to education and mentorship. While in medical school, he designed and taught multiple science courses for high school and middle school students, including classes through Brown University's Pre-College Programs and The Wheeler School. Dr. Painter’s teaching philosophy emphasizes accessibility, curiosity, and empowerment, helping students see themselves as capable scholars and future professionals. Dr. Painter has mentored and tutored students of all ages, and students he has mentored have been admitted to top medical schools and PhD programs.
Undergrad: University of Richmond
Medical School: The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
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Undergrad: Brigham Young University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
With a strong foundation in medical education, Dr. Khan has mentored BS/MD students, pre-med students, medical students, and residents throughout every stage of the admissions journey. She has interviewed and reviewed hundreds of applicants as a residency and fellowship admissions committee member and interviewer and as a medical school counseling advisor. Dr. Khan has over a decade of experience reviewing personal statements, preparing candidates for interviews, and strategically positioning applicants—especially non-traditional students and career shifters—for success in today’s competitive admissions landscape. Her coaching has helped numerous BS/MD students gain acceptance to some of the nation’s most competitive programs.
Dr. Khan’s clinical and academic experience is complemented by her work in teaching, sports injury management, and community health advocacy. Her greatest strengths as a coach include helping students articulate purpose, frame meaningful life experiences, and strategically align their applications to reflect both authenticity and impact. Known for her efficiency, honesty, and motivational coaching style, she helps students craft compelling personal narratives while building confidence and clarity about their professional goals.
Throughout her career, Dr. Khan has served as a trusted physician for NCAA athletes, elite/professional teams, and endurance competitors, focusing on goal-setting with a quick return to play. As a former NCAA Division I rugby player at Brigham Young University who secured multiple academic scholarships, Dr. Khan brings the same determination and resilience she cultivated in athletics to her coaching approach. She believes that every applicant has a story worth telling, and is deeply committed to helping future physicians craft powerful, purposeful application narratives.
Undergrad: Brigham Young University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine


Undergrad: Syracuse University
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine
Graduate School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine
During his medical education, Dr. Mo was recognized for academic excellence and leadership. He served as a class representative and teaching assistant across multiple disciplines, demonstrating his commitment to education and peer support. Dr. Mo has also contributed to published works, including research published in Cureus: Journal of Medical Science and a clinical case on geriatric psychosis associated with stroke and Parkinson's disease published in the Journal of Medical Case Reports and Case Series.
Dr. Mo has a longstanding passion for mentorship and has guided numerous students through medical school, residency, and fellowship applications. Students he’s coached have gone on to present award-winning research and match into highly competitive programs nationwide, including acceptances to programs in New York and New Jersey. He has also assisted in reviewing residency applications.
Known for his calm, supportive approach, Dr. Mo helps applicants bring authenticity and clarity to their personal narratives while navigating the complexities of the admissions process.
Undergrad: Syracuse University
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine
Graduate School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine


Undergrad: Rice University
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Graduate School: University of Wisconsin
Dr. Zhao’s path to medicine began early. As treasurer of his high school pre-med club and later valedictorian, he was drawn to primary care and the opportunity to serve underprivileged populations. At Rice University, his studies in bioengineering deepened his appreciation for the science and systems behind health care, and later served as an alumni interviewer. During medical school at UT Southwestern, he explored multiple disciplines before discovering his passion for primary care and preventive medicine—fields that allowed him to combine science, compassion, and public service.
Throughout his career, Dr. Zhao has practiced medicine in diverse environments, including correctional facilities, rural health clinics, and urgent care settings. As Medical Director of Travis State Jail, he specialized in broad-spectrum care for underserved populations. He later served as a rural primary care physician for Medina Hospital, further strengthening his commitment to accessible, community-centered medicine.
Known for his approachable and flexible demeanor, Dr. Zhao takes pride in mentoring future physicians. Long before becoming a medical director, he provided meticulous advice and words of encouragement, edited personal statements, and wrote recommendation letters for aspiring physicians. Students Dr. Zhao has coached have been accepted to every Texas medical school. His dedication to teaching and supporting others reflects his core belief that strong physicians are shaped by mentorship and empathy as much as by training.
Dr. Zhao hopes to become a regional director within a major health care organization. His long-term goal is to share his knowledge and experience with aspiring physicians, helping each student define their goals and reach their full potential.
Undergrad: Rice University
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Graduate School: University of Wisconsin
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Undergrad: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dr. Sandhu completed her associate’s degree at community college and her bachelor’s degree at Virginia Commonwealth University. Coming from a background with limited support during medical school and residency admissions, she is deeply motivated to mentor students at every stage of their journey and is committed to helping the next generation succeed.
Throughout her medical education journey, Dr. Sandhu has presented posters at meetings for the American Thoracic Society, American Heart Association, and the American College of Physicians National Conference, where her poster won first place. Dr. Sandhu was also inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and has received the Resident of Outstanding Strength and Tenacity Community/Service Recognition Award twice.
Dr. Sandhu has a longstanding dedication to mentorship, having guided students for years before joining Inspira Advantage. From personal statements and mock interviews to essay editing and providing words of encouragement, she has years of experience in helping students refine every aspect of their applications. Dr. Sandhu’s experience serving on her medical school admissions committee and residency recruitment committee has provided her with valuable insight into what makes a strong candidate.
With her own non-traditional path into medicine, Dr. Sandhu is especially passionate about supporting students from diverse and unconventional backgrounds. Known for her supportive nature, attention to detail, and ability to highlight the strengths of students, she takes pride in crafting tailored strategies for success.
Undergrad: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
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Undergrad: Emmanuel College
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Dr. Verdini began his higher education journey at Emmanuel College, where he majored in biology and graduated cum laude. While in college, he participated in research on campus and at Merck Research Laboratories. He was selected as a scholar in the Undergraduate Scholarship Program at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a national program that provides funding for high-achieving, low-income students to attend college and conduct research at the NIH upon graduation. While at the NIH, Dr. Verdini conducted research on CAR T-cell therapy for pediatric malignancies and spent a year conducting clinical research in bladder cancer immunotherapy. During that time, he also served as a medical scribe in a local emergency room.
Dr. Verdini attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine, where he was part of the Health Justice Scholars Program. During medical school, he took a research year at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the Radiation Oncology Department. His research focused on clinical trial enrollment strategies, implementation science, patient-reported outcomes, and addressing disparities in cancer care. He has authored publications in JAMA Oncology, JCO Oncology Practice, and the International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics. Dr. Verdini has also presented nationally at American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO) meetings.
Dr. Verdini has been recognized with multiple awards and honors, including the ASCO Conquer Cancer Merit Award, the American College of Radiation Oncology Travel Grant, and a scholarship from the Massachusetts Medical Society and Boston North Cancer Association. These distinctions reflect his commitment to research excellence, educational leadership, and expanding equitable access to both cancer care and medical education.
Dr. Verdini's commitment to guiding others stems from his own journey as a first-generation college and medical student. The mentorship he received while navigating the challenging path to medicine inspires his dedication. As a member of the Tufts University School of Medicine Admissions Committee, Dr. Verdini reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, and voted on admissions decisions—experience he now channels into coaching prospective medical students. His goal is to help applicants highlight their authentic strengths, build confidence, and succeed in a highly competitive process.
Undergrad: Emmanuel College
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: Oregon State University
Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences - College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest
Dr. Trinh’s educational journey began with an Honors BS in biochemistry and molecular biology from Oregon State University, where he served as an Honors College peer mentor and received three scholarship awards. During medical school, Dr. Trinh was selected for a competitive Pre-Doctoral Teaching Fellowship & Scholarship in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), where he taught in lecture and small-group settings while serving as a dedicated tutor for pre-clinical students. He also served as Program Coordinator for a summer medical school immersion program (DREAM) for underrepresented students in medicine, further reflecting his commitment to equity and opportunity in healthcare. These experiences deepened Dr. Trinh’s love for medical education and affirmed his ability to make complex concepts approachable and engaging for learners. He was also recognized with multiple scholarships for academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Trinh has guided aspiring physicians through the admissions process as a student ambassador, evaluating applications, conducting group interviews, and making recommendations to the admissions committee. Having once been a first-generation applicant himself, he takes pride in mentoring students to embrace their authentic stories and highlight their unique strengths throughout the journey to medicine.
Dr. Trinh’s commitment to education is complemented by his passion for uplifting and empowering those around him. His teaching style is rooted in individualized guidance—an approach he applies equally to students and patients. He learns as much from their perspectives and stories as they do from his mentorship, and he is dedicated to helping them achieve their goals, leverage their unique skills, and navigate the barriers they face.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Trinh draws upon his extensive experience with medical education and admissions. His own journey to his top-choice medical school and residency program gives him unique insight into how students can build a cohesive brand and showcase their experiences effectively. He is highly adaptable in working with students from diverse backgrounds and goals, and his supportive, personalized approach makes him a trusted mentor for those striving to achieve their dreams of becoming physicians.
Undergrad: Oregon State University
Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences - College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest
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Undergrad: Spelman College
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University College of Medicine
Dr. Jamison is the Founder and former Director of the Summer Enrichment and Mentorship Program (SEMP), a six-week intensive pipeline initiative designed to support pre-med and medical school students pursuing careers in medicine. Through SEMP, she has mentored dozens of medical students and pre-medical trainees on medical school and residency readiness, including interview skills, personal statement writing, clinical skills, and strategies for success on the wards. Dr. Jamison developed comprehensive curricula that integrate didactic lectures, procedural workshops, and simulated patient encounters, ensuring mentees gain hands-on skills and critical insights to excel in medical training.
As a core faculty member in emergency medicine at St. Barnabas Hospital (SBH) Health System, Dr. Jamison participated extensively in the residency match process, reviewing and interviewing hundreds of medical student profiles and applications for both medical school and residency admission. Her keen eye for talent, ability to identify strengths and growth areas, and experience conducting high-stakes interviews make her an invaluable coach for aspiring physicians. She is deeply invested in preparing students for every stage of the application process, from crafting compelling personal statements to excelling in interviews and clinical rotations.
Dr. Jamison also served as an affiliate assistant professor at the CUNY School of Medicine, where she taught physical diagnosis and history-taking to medical students. Her teaching philosophy centers on building clinical confidence, fostering cultural humility, and helping each student discover and articulate their unique story in medicine.
Having navigated her own journey to medicine after taking a non-traditional path, Dr. Jamison is especially skilled in admissions strategy for non-traditional applicants. She brings both personal and professional experience to students pursuing medical school after gap years, career pivots, or other unique life circumstances. She understands the challenges and opportunities these applicants face and is especially skilled at helping them leverage their backgrounds into strong, memorable applications.
Dr. Jamison’s approach to coaching is supportive, insightful, and student-centered. She believes that every applicant has a powerful narrative, and her mission is to help them discover, refine, and confidently share their story as they pursue their dreams in medicine.
Dr. Jamison’s leadership and service have earned her multiple honors, including the ESSENCE Magazine Essential Heroes Award and the Emergency Medicine Residents’ Association Community Service Grant. She has been featured by the AAMC and in regional news outlets for her work in mentorship, health equity, and medical education. She is also a graduate of Harvard Medical School’s “Media and Medicine” certificate program.
Undergrad: Spelman College
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University College of Medicine
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Undergrad: Washington & Jefferson College
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Dr. Tang began his medical education journey after being accepted into two highly competitive BS/MD and BA/MD programs. At Washington and Jefferson College, he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Sigma Biological Honor Society, received the David K. Scarborough Leadership Award, competed in men’s wrestling and tennis, and was a distinguished military graduate of the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC). Throughout the course of his BA/MD education, Dr. Tang was awarded the Army ROTC 4-Year National Scholarship, the W&J Presidential Scholarship, and the Temple University Presidential Scholarship.
During medical school, Dr. Tang prepared himself for multiple specialties, ranging from orthopaedic surgery to psychiatry and family medicine. He has conducted both wet lab and non-wet lab research and was the only medical student selected for a podium presentation at the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine Annual Conference. He also served as Co-President of the Orthopaedic Interest Group and the Point-of-Care Ultrasound Interest Group. A 28,000-card preclinical Anki deck that he created as a medical student is still widely used by Temple medical students today. For residency, he matched at his top choice program—Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, FL—as one of only three medical students selected out of more than 2,600 applicants.
Beyond academics, Dr. Tang has an extensive record of leadership and selfless service. He was selected for admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point in high school, earned the Superior Cadet Award as the top-ranked cadet in his ROTC class, and now serves as the only psychiatrist in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, where he oversees behavioral health for soldiers and collaborates with medical staff.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Tang draws on more than 8 years of mentorship experience and has guided students to medical program acceptance at Stanford University, Temple University, Jefferson College, the University of Virginia, Drexel University, and the United States Naval Academy. Known for his high emotional intelligence and strategic approach, he helps students present cohesive applications that showcase their strengths and allow them to stand out. Having successfully navigated the BS/MD process, medical school, and residency placement, he understands exactly what admissions committees are looking for at every stage.
Undergrad: Washington & Jefferson College
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
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Undergrad: Loras College
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine
Dr. Hooks conducted clinical research as a research assistant at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Focusing primarily on nephrology and surgical research, Dr. Hooks received grants from the National Institutes of Health and National Kidney Foundation. She has over 12 years of research mentorship experience, guiding students in research across biochemistry, health policy, health economics, health services, and physiology. She also has experience mentoring students conducting research in cancer, tumor, cell, and integrative biology. Students who have worked with Dr. Hooks have been accepted to top institutions such as Columbia University, Harvard University, Yale University, USC, UC Irvine, and the University of Maryland.
Dr. Hooks’ career reflects a passion for both medicine and entrepreneurship. She has practiced as a hospitalist, founded a private practice specializing in medical weight loss and aesthetics, and now serves as Medical Director of a healthcare company. Her leadership extends beyond clinical work, through her work as a mentor at Pinnacle Business Academy, providing professional development for physicians and medical trainees alike. She is also the CEO of Phoenix Med Health PLLC, and is currently pursuing an MBA at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Recognized for her dedication to student success, Dr. Hooks is committed to empowering future physicians to navigate the challenges of the research process with confidence.
Undergrad: Loras College
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Missouri–Kansas City
Medical School: University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Medicine
Despite being accepted to four Ivy League universities, Dr. Nwankwo chose the combined accelerated BA/MD program at UMKC, drawn by its unique opportunity to integrate undergraduate and medical education while pursuing her interests in research and health equity. She earned a BLA with a minor in chemistry before attending medical school. During her training, she received multiple honors and scholarships, including the American Medical Association (AMA) Foundation Underrepresented in Medicine Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship, a research award from the Dermatology Foundation, and the Dean of Students Honor. She was also accepted into the prestigious National Institutes of Health Medical Research Scholars Program, an experience she describes as deeply formative in shaping her intellectual curiosity, attention to detail, and growth as a physician–scientist.
Dr. Nwankwo’s journey into medicine has always been guided by a commitment to health equity. From an early age, she recognized how profoundly access to care can influence communities, both locally and abroad. This awareness ultimately led her to dermatology, a specialty where disparities in care remain underappreciated but profoundly impactful. Her passion lies in studying dermatologic conditions that disproportionately affect minority populations, advancing access to care, and fostering representation, diversity, and acceptance within the field.
Dr. Nwankwo’s research experience reflects this mission. With over ten publications and two textbook chapters, she has contributed to advancing knowledge of hair and skin disorders in diverse populations. She is especially proud of her work investigating the skin microbiome in patients with central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), helping the field better understand the biology underlying this scarring hair loss condition.
Beyond academia, Dr. Nwankwo has been a dedicated leader and advocate. As Vice President of her institution’s Student National Medical Association (SNMA) chapter, she created a fundraiser that raised over $4,000 to support chapter initiatives and led a school-wide town hall on addressing bias in medicine. At the national level, she served on the Advocacy Committee of the National Medical Association and partnered with the Cicatricial Alopecia Research Foundation to support patients and drive research forward.
Mentorship is a cornerstone of Dr. Nwankwo’s work. In addition to co-founding the Dream Big Initiative and serving as a medical school admissions interviewer, she has experience tutoring peers in board preparation and medical school coursework, providing students with personalized guidance to strengthen their knowledge and confidence. Students that Dr. Nwankwo has coached have been accepted to medical schools at UMKC, the University of Missouri, and Northwestern University.
Dr. Nwankwo believes in the transformative power of individualized mentorship. As a first-generation physician, she understands the value of resilience, resourcefulness, and hard work, which she channels into empowering mentees to achieve their goals.
Dr. Nwankwo is excited about the future of dermatologic research, particularly studies that improve understanding of skin and hair disorders in underrepresented populations. She envisions a world where dermatologic care is both accessible and equitable and where all patients understand the full scope of what dermatologists can offer.
Undergrad: University of Missouri–Kansas City
Medical School: University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Medicine


Undergrad: Davidson College
Medical School: Emory University School of Medicine
Graduate School: Emory University Laney Graduate School
Dr. Ford’s academic journey reflects his dedication to excellence. His higher education journey began at Davidson College, where he graduated with honors in neuroscience, earned his department’s top research award, and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. He attended Davidson College on a music performance scholarship as a saxophone player and was a member of a selective four-year leadership program, the Chidsey Leadership Fellows.
Dr. Ford later completed an MD and a PhD in neuroscience at Emory University School of Medicine, maintaining a 4.0 GPA in his doctoral studies. His research contributions include nine peer-reviewed publications and more than 25 national and international conferences. Today, Dr. Ford works as a consultant for leading biotech startups and pharmaceutical companies, giving him a unique perspective on the future of medicine. His projects have spanned the entire drug development lifecycle, from AI-driven target identification to the clinical development of gene therapy. He is also the Co-Founder of Envision Therapeutics, a startup developing digital therapeutics for anxiety disorders.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Ford excels at helping students craft powerful, authentic narratives that highlight their unique paths to medicine. He specializes in guiding applicants to transform challenges into strengths, refine their communication skills, and strategically optimize their applications from primary submission to the final interview. Dr. Ford guides applicants to use the psychological power of storytelling to connect with admission committee members on a personal level. Students Dr. Ford has coached have been accepted to Ohio State University SOM, Georgia Medical College, University College London, and various Florida medical schools.
Dr. Ford’s passion for mentoring aspiring physicians is deeply personal. As a former non-traditional applicant, he relied on exceptional mentors to help him craft a compelling narrative for his gap years that ultimately led to his acceptance into multiple top-tier MD-PhD programs. He understands the pressure and anxiety applicants may face and provides a structured, supportive partnership that demystifies the process and empowers each student to confidently present their authentic self. In each session, Dr. Ford demonstrates what makes a candidate stand out, how to transform weaknesses into strengths, and provides a clear window into how committees think when making final admissions decisions.
Undergrad: Davidson College
Medical School: Emory University School of Medicine
Graduate School: Emory University Laney Graduate School


Undergrad: University of Maryland, College Park
Medical School: Carle Illinois College of Medicine at the University of Illinois at Urbana‑Champaign
Dr. Patel’s higher education journey began at the University of Maryland, College Park, where he earned a BS in bioengineering. Early in his career, Dr. Patel founded a company focused on AI-driven neurodiagnostics for memory disorders—an endeavor that secured a national National Institutes of Health grant and was featured in leading journals and outlets such as Forbes. His entrepreneurial journey and passion for bridging medicine and technology culminated in a TEDx Talk, where he shared lessons learned from building an AI startup in the neuroscience space.
Dr. Patel’s industry experience spans the entire spectrum of biomedical innovation—preclinical, clinical, and post-commercialization. At AstraZeneca, he received first-place recognition among more than 100 interns for his pioneering work on vaporized hydrogen peroxide modeling in drug formulations. At AbbVie, he employed advanced immunohistochemistry techniques to evaluate novel Alzheimer’s disease targets. His business acumen was further sharpened as a consultant, where he developed corporate and market strategies for emerging neurology devices and therapeutics.
At Carle Illinois, the world’s first engineering medical school, Dr. Patel collaborated on migraine‑relief glasses and AI‑driven hemorrhage prediction models, contributing to internationally published research and design awards. His leadership and scholarship were recognized nationally when the American Academy of Neurology awarded him the Medical Student Prize for Excellence.
Alongside his academic and entrepreneurial pursuits, Dr. Patel has devoted himself to mentorship and community engagement across diverse settings. He has taught neuroscience classes to underserved high school students, guided new medical students as a wellness mentor at Carle, and helped review and enhance the admissions process—an experience that gave him unique insight into the inner workings of medical school applications and enabled him to guide prospective students on their journeys. These experiences reflect his belief in democratizing access to knowledge, fostering resilience, and supporting learners from all walks of life.
What sets Dr. Patel apart as a counselor is his rare blend of engineering rigor, clinical training, and entrepreneurial vision. He thrives at the intersection of medicine, technology, and patient care, consistently leveraging his interdisciplinary background to push boundaries in medicine and beyond. His mentorship reflects this same ethos—personalized, innovative, and deeply committed to helping students and trainees discover their unique path in medicine.
Undergrad: University of Maryland, College Park
Medical School: Carle Illinois College of Medicine at the University of Illinois at Urbana‑Champaign
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Undergrad: Haverford College
Medical School: Stanford University School of Medicine
Before attending medical school, Dr. Gebregziabher graduated from Haverford College with a BS in chemistry. As a college student, he served as an undergraduate research assistant at Haverford College and Temple University. He also served as a research specialist at the University of Pennsylvania and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Gebregziabher’s scholarship includes co–co-authorship in high‑impact journals such as Nature and Nature Medicine and the Journal of Clinical Oncology, covering topics like ferroptosis in tumor‑associated neutrophils, global health, and oncology research.
Dr. Gebregziabher earned the competitive C.V. Starr full‑ride scholarship and was named a Koshland Integrated Natural Sciences Center Scholar during his undergraduate years. At Stanford School of Medicine, he received the prestigious full-ride John Arillaga Scholarship and participated as a Med Scholars, MLT, and Consortium Fellow. He also received the Apple Investigator Support grant.
Dr. Gebregziabher supports students through every step of the BS/MD application process, from application strategy to interview preparation and beyond. His experience navigating college and medical admissions as an international student from Ethiopia himself gives him a unique perspective on the process and how applicants can stand out.
Dr. Gebregziabher is passionate about providing inclusive, accessible mentorship. While he is passionate about helping all students realize their medical school dreams, he is especially motivated to support international students, students with academic challenges, re‑applicants, and those from first‑generation, underrepresented, or non‑traditional backgrounds.
Undergrad: Haverford College
Medical School: Stanford University School of Medicine


Undergrad: Quinnipiac University
Medical School: University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Before medical school, Dr. Kozar graduated summa cum laude from Quinnipiac University with a BS in health science studies and membership in Alpha Eta. She also served as a peer tutor for anatomy and physiology and supported MCAT preparation—foundational experiences that shaped her commitment to mentorship.
Dr. Kozar brings over a decade of experience in geriatric care, intergenerational program design, and curricular development. As a college student, she pioneered the nation’s first Student-in-Residence program, living for a year among older adults in a senior living community—an innovative model later replicated across the country. Her early passion for the care of older adults was sparked by her friendship with her 95-year-old neighbor, who developed Alzheimer’s disease. This led her to serve as an Alzheimer’s Association Ambassador, join the Medical Science Advisory Council, and direct several dementia care units, where her innovative non-pharmacological interventions earned her the LeadingAge Connecticut Aging Services Award of Excellence.
In medical school, Dr. Kozar expanded her impact through leadership in curriculum development, student recruitment, and admissions, gaining firsthand insight into what selection committees value most. She founded her institution’s chapter of the American Geriatrics Society, served on multiple boards, including the Hartford Medical Society and the nonprofit For All Ages, and co-led the Connecticut Collaborative to End Loneliness. She has also contributed to state-level workforce initiatives addressing physician recruitment and retention.
D. Kozar’s advocacy and scholarship have been recognized through over 40 publications, interviews, and presentations. These include a TEDx talk, an appearance on Steve TV with Steve Harvey, Associated Press articles, and research featured in leading medical journals. Her honors include recognition as an American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry Scholar, the Edward Henderson Excellence Award from the American Geriatrics Society, the Hartford Medical Society Rising Star Award, and the Connecticut State Medical Society Student Advocate of the Year Award.
At Yale, Dr. Kozar continues to advance medical education as an active member of committees focused on resident recruitment, graduate medical education policy, and program development. These roles, combined with her advising experience, give her an insider’s perspective on the complexities of both medical school and residency admissions.
What sets Dr. Kozar apart as an advisor is her ability to weave together her diverse experiences, from national advocacy with the Alzheimer’s Association to program development, curriculum innovation, and recruitment leadership, into a mentorship style that helps students uncover and showcase their most authentic selves. She is known for her personalized, detail-oriented approach, working closely with students to highlight their strengths, articulate meaningful narratives, and design effective strategies for success.
At her core, Dr. Kozar is driven by a deep belief that every applicant has a story worth telling. Whether guiding students through personal statement revisions, interview prep, or long-term strategy, she blends personalized, detail-oriented guidance with enthusiasm and clarity. Her philosophy is anchored in helping future physicians approach their applications—and their careers—with confidence, clarity, and authenticity.
Undergrad: Quinnipiac University
Medical School: University of Connecticut School of Medicine


Undergrad: Emory University
Medical School: Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
Graduate School: Boston University
Before attending medical school, Dr. Li graduated summa cum laude from Emory University with a degree in neuroscience and behavioral biology and a second major in music performance. During undergrad, Dr. Li was a member of the Emory Scholars Program, inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society, and received multiple research awards.
While working toward his MD and PhD, Dr. Li worked as a doctoral researcher at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital for nearly seven years. His graduate work revolved around evaluating single neuronal responses during complex social decision-making in mice. He has also been awarded multiple fellowships from many organizations, such as the Autism Science Foundation, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, and the Society of Biological Psychiatry.
Throughout his career, Dr. Li has been recognized with prestigious honors, including the Michael L. J. Apuzzo Prize for Creativity and Innovation, the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award, and the Detre Award for Translational Research. His research achievements have been celebrated with awards from organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, and the International Society for Neuroethology.
While completing his MD/PhD training, Dr. Li served on the Boston University School of Medicine admissions committee. He has also tutored and mentored students since his undergraduate years and continues to support aspiring physicians and physician-scientists through structured mentorship programs at Yale University. His mentees have gone on to earn summa cum laude honors, complete competitive theses, and successfully matriculate into top-tier medical and graduate programs. Students Dr. Li has coached have been accepted to Harvard, Stanford, BU, Columbia, UCSD, UCLA, NYU, Mt. Sinai, UPenn, Emory, UConn, UMass, UChicago, Northwestern, Georgetown, and UNC, among others.
Dr. Li’s approach to admissions coaching is rooted in authenticity, empowerment, and storytelling. He is particularly skilled at helping students craft personal narratives that communicate their academic excellence, resilience, leadership, and humanism. Drawing from his background in social neuroscience and psychiatry, Dr. Li guides applicants in reflecting deeply on their motivations and experiences in a way that resonates with admissions committees.
What sets Dr. Li apart as a consultant is his breadth of insight across traditional MD, MD/PhD, and non-traditional applicant pathways. He has mentored students from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds, taking pride in building relationships that foster personal and professional growth. His coaching style is collaborative and strategic, helping students set goals, create timelines, and identify their unique differentiators while offering honest, compassionate feedback every step.
Undergrad: Emory University
Medical School: Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
Graduate School: Boston University


Undergrad: Harvard University
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Before attending Yale, Dr. Herrington graduated summa cum laude from Harvard University with a BA in history and literature and a minor in Swahili. She received Highest Honors in her major and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Dr. Herrington’s undergraduate thesis won the John Clive Prize and the Dorothy Hicks Lee Prize, and she also earned the Ephraim Isaac Prize for Excellence in African Studies. She was also recognized as a John Harvard Scholar, awarded for graduating in the top 5% of her class.
At Yale, Dr. Herrington was a member of the Child Psychiatry Interest Group. She also conducted qualitative and quantitative research in psychiatry, publishing extensively on topics ranging from the mental health of displaced youth in Cameroon to clinicians' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. She received the Vernon W. Lippard, M.D., Student Summer Research Fellowship and Lowe Endowment funding for her work. She also authored a medical school thesis on psychopharmacological approaches to borderline personality disorder.
As a physician-writer, Dr. Herrington earned honorable mentions in the prose and poetry categories of the Marguerite Rush-Lerner Creative Writing and Art Contest. Her creative non-fiction has been published in the American Journal of Psychiatry Residents' Journal and Yale's literary journal, Murmurs.
Dr. Herrington is committed to partnering with students in their medical school application journeys. It is very important to her that students feel heard and not alone as they apply to medical school. She cares about providing thoughtful feedback and suggestions that build on their unique strengths.
Dr. Herrington has extensive experience assisting with personal statements and other written application materials. She has a particular gift for identifying and enhancing the most compelling aspects of an applicant’s story and writing style. She draws on her experience as an interviewer at Harvard University to guide students through the medical school interview process. She considers it an extraordinary gift to be a practicing physician and is eager to help aspiring physicians achieve their dreams.
Undergrad: Harvard University
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine


Undergrad: Vassar College
Medical School: Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Before attending medical school, Dr. Lee graduated with departmental honors in biology from Vassar College, where he was also Captain of Vassar College Emergency Medical Services. He also received the Bruce Gillman Award for fencing. During his gap year, Dr. Lee worked as a research assistant at Northwell Health in thoracic surgery, managing a lung cancer database and published a paper studying the benefits of robotic surgery for lung cancer.
During his last year in medical school, Dr. Lee was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society for excellence in academic performance and leadership. He also graduated with a certificate of special proficiency in medical ultrasound. He was also awarded 2nd place for his poster presentation at the Northwell Academic Competition. Dr. Lee completed his intern year in internal medicine at North Shore University Hospital/Long Island Jewish Medical Center, where he was recognized as Preliminary Intern of the Year.
Dr. Lee has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and Innovations. His work spans topics from robotic surgery to COVID-19 dermatologic manifestations and transfusion-related outcomes in cardiac surgery patients.
Dr. Lee is passionate about medical education and helping students achieve their goals. He has mentored numerous pre-medical students in applying to medical school and is heavily involved in residency mentorship and advising. Students Dr. Lee has coached have been accepted to Harvard Medical School, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, and SUNY Downstate.
As a coach, Dr. Lee specializes in taking a holistic approach to help students display their unique strengths beyond their academic record or metrics to allow admissions committees to fully appreciate an applicant’s qualities.
Undergrad: Vassar College
Medical School: Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell


Undergrad: University of Southern California
Medical School: University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Dr. Ashouri also served as an admissions coach at the USC Keck School of Medicine, where he facilitated interactive, case-based learning sessions that empowered medical students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. His background in admissions, coupled with his years of experience in MCAT tutoring, gives Dr. Ashouri keen insights into what top medical programs seek at every stage of the admissions process.
Before medical school, Dr. Ashouri volunteered as an EMT with Royal Ambulatory Services. He takes pride in contributing to community and service initiatives, including his work on a medical device design team and assisting volunteer populations through the International Rescue Committee.
Dr. Ashouri has published 17 manuscripts, primarily focusing on hematology and oncology. He has led influential studies on immunoglobulins and CXCL5 as biomarkers in immunotherapy-treated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), explored AXL and necroptosis signaling in colorectal cancer, and conducted research on acute lymphocytic leukemia, resulting in multiple first-author posters at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the American Society of Hematology. Dr. Ashouri’s work resulted in him receiving two ASCO Conquer Cancer Merit Awards. He has also presented findings on non-small cell lung cancer with the American Association for Cancer Research and regularly serves as a manuscript reviewer for several academic journals.
Throughout his training, Dr. Ashouri has demonstrated academic excellence, clinical leadership, and a strong commitment to impactful research. He uses his unique admissions and clinical experiences to coach students in crafting compelling narratives and excel in the admissions process. Known for his collaborative, student-centered approach, Dr. Ashouri is dedicated to helping future physicians pursue their goals with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Ashouri’s strengths as an admissions counselor stem from his diverse experiences in research, curriculum development, and medical school admissions. He quickly identifies each applicant’s strengths and weaknesses, providing focused, actionable feedback throughout the application process. By drawing on his deep involvement in academic medicine and his experience reviewing and interviewing candidates, he offers clear, individualized mentorship, helping every applicant uncover their unique story and present their best self. Students value Dr. Ashouri’s sharp insight, talent for clarifying complex topics, and ongoing support.
Dr. Ashouri’s wide-ranging experiences in research, teaching, clinical practice, and admissions give him a comprehensive understanding of what makes applicants stand out. He is committed to helping students uncover their unique path and present their most competitive selves in the medical school and residency application processes.
Undergrad: University of Southern California
Medical School: University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine


Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
Dr. Fang has contributed to 15+ publications throughout her medical school journey, with her research being published in the Journal of Wound Care, the Journal of Cancer Education, the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, and other renowned publications. Before beginning her residency, Dr. Fang amassed years of experience mentoring students from diverse backgrounds, including first-generation and low-income populations. She has helped numerous students gain admission to Ivy League schools, top colleges, and graduate programs across various fields. Her coaching success stems from a foundation built on empathy, precision, and a deep understanding of what makes an application truly stand out in competitive pools.
As an admissions counselor, one of Dr. Fang’s greatest strengths lies in her strategic thinking, her ability to quickly identify a student's strengths and weaknesses, and her talent for uncovering compelling narratives within each student's unique journey. She excels at working with students who possess non-traditional experiences and may be unsure of how to frame these into powerful application materials. Her engineering background provides her with analytical problem-solving skills, while her medical training offers insight into the healthcare admissions landscape, creating a multidimensional perspective that clients find invaluable.
Dr. Fang's mentoring style is warm, thoughtful, and tailored to each individual. She empowers students to take ownership of their narrative while providing the expert guidance needed to present their best selves to admissions committees. Dr. Fang's passion for coaching stems from her own journey as the daughter of immigrants and as a proud Midwesterner who understands the challenges of navigating complex admissions processes. She draws from her personal experiences to help students approach the often overwhelming world of admissions with clarity and resilience.
Outside of work, Dr. Fang is an avid traveler who has explored five continents. She maintains a tradition of sending and collecting postcards from around the world, which helps her stay connected to people and places that have shaped her perspective. Dr. Fang is also a fan of thought-provoking television series like Squid Game and The White Lotus, appreciating how storytelling in media intersects with themes of identity, morality, and culture, insights that often inform her approach to helping students craft their own compelling narratives.
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences


Undergrad: Northern Illinois University
Medical School: Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Dr. Diulus first served as an interviewer at the Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. After one year of interviewing students, she spent the next two years of her tenure as an application reader. Her insight into the admissions process, developed through hands-on experience evaluating personal statements, secondaries, and interviews, gives her a strong edge in helping students craft impactful, authentic applications.
Dr. Diulus has a strong academic and research background, with over 20 peer-reviewed publications in orthopedic surgery and radiology. Before medical school, she completed a clinical research internship at the American Hip Institute, contributing to high-impact orthopedic outcomes research. She was also a recipient of the National Institutes of Health T35 Grant for summer research and is a member of both the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Medical Society and Alpha Sigma Nu. Dr. Diulus currently serves as a Content Acquisition Editor for the Journal of Medical Insight (JOMI).
As a coach, Dr. Diulus brings a strategic and highly personalized approach. She understands the unique challenges faced by first-time applicants, reapplicants, and non-traditional students. Students who work with Dr. Diulus appreciate her clarity, empathy, and ability to help them build a cohesive narrative that reflects their strengths and growth.
Dr. Diulus specializes in personal statement and secondary essay editing with an emphasis on authentic storytelling, strategic application planning, school list construction, and traditional and MMI interview preparation. She also excels at helping applicants frame their clinical, volunteer, and research experiences for maximum impact. Dr. Diulus’ favorite part of coaching is helping students find clarity and confidence in their unique path to medicine. She believes every applicant has a story worth telling—and she’s committed to helping them tell it well.
Undergrad: Northern Illinois University
Medical School: Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
During his time at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Dr. Siddiqui was named to the Dean’s Honor List and received the Legacy Scholarship for his commitment to volunteer service. During medical school, Dr. Siddiqui served as an interviewer on the Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine’s admissions committee.
Dr. Siddiqui completed his residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Temple University Hospital. As a resident, he provided high-acuity care, such as treating neuromuscular and chronic disability conditions. He also served on his residency program’s admissions committee as an interviewer. Dr. Siddiqui’s academic contributions include more than 10 published works across conferences, abstracts, and scientific journals, including the Journal of Cellular Biology and the Journal of Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation & Disabilities. His research spans topics from sciatic neuropathy to oncologic transcription factors.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Siddiqui draws on his extensive clinical and research background to guide applicants with clarity, authenticity, and strategy. His strengths lie in storytelling, consistent advising, and empowering students to articulate their unique journey into medicine. Dr. Siddiqui’s goal is to help students build compelling narratives that resonate with admissions committees.
Dr. Siddiqui is passionate about coaching because he sees mentorship as an extension of being a medical professional and being a source of guidance to the younger generation. Having navigated the journey himself and served on medical school and residency admissions committees, he understands the process immensely. Dr. Siddiqui brings humor, insight, and genuine care to every student he works with.
Undergrad: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine


Undergrad: CUNY Brooklyn College
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences College of Medicine
Graduate School: Georgia Southwestern State University
Dr. Vizgan's higher education journey began at CUNY Brooklyn College, where he graduated with a BBA and BS in business management on a full scholarship. He also holds an MS, MPH, and MBA, combining clinical expertise with a strategic understanding of healthcare systems and medical finance. Dr. Vizgan’s recent research focuses on biomedical device development, innovation, and hospital administration.
With over four years of mentorship experience, Dr. Vizgan has guided a wide range of applicants through the complex admissions landscape. He brings a strategic, data-driven approach to application coaching, tailored to each student’s unique profile and goals. His insider perspective on admissions has helped numerous students gain entry into programs at SUNY Downstate and NYITCOM.
Undergrad: CUNY Brooklyn College
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences College of Medicine
Graduate School: Georgia Southwestern State University


Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine
Dr. Zilkha was valedictorian of her high school and was accepted into an eight-year BA/MD program at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU). After only three years, she graduated from WashU summa cum laude with a BA in Spanish literature and a biology minor. She was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and received the Sherman Eoff Memorial Award for excellence in Spanish. After graduation, she returned home to New York for a year, where she worked as a tri-lingual receptionist (English, Spanish, Japanese) while applying to medical school.
Dr. Zilkha already had the opportunity to attend the Washington University School of Medicine through the BA/MD program, but she decided to also apply to a few other top medical schools that were closer to home. She was accepted to the Yale School of Medicine, the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and Columbia School of Medicine, but decided to return to WashU after she was awarded two full-tuition merit scholarships (the Olin Fellowship for Women and the Distinguished Alumni Scholarship) with a stipend.
After that, Dr. Zilkha matched at her top residency choice, which was Schneider Children's Hospital (now Cohen Children's Medical Center) of the Long Island Jewish Medical Center. During residency, she won an award for her research on latex allergy in pediatric housestaff. After residency, she did part of a fellowship in allergy/immunology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center. After pregnancy complications that disrupted her fellowship, she decided to instead transition to pediatric private practice.
She spent 20 years in pediatric private practice before pivoting to pediatric telemedicine. Dr. Zilkha has worked for multiple large telemedicine companies, but her biggest accomplishment was creating and launching the pediatric telemedicine division for Allied Physicians Group in New York. Once the pandemic hit New York, Dr. Zilkha scaled Allied Pediatric Telemedicine as well as trained physicians in telemedicine across the United States. Dr. Zilkha was personally responsible for bringing pediatric telemedicine to millions of U.S. children.
Dr. Zilkha joined the staff of Hofstra University's Zucker School of Medicine (ZSOM), and then, after helping her daughter apply and get accepted to medical school, her interest in medical school admissions grew. It was then that she joined the ZSOM admissions committee.
Dr. Zilkha is extremely passionate about helping the next generation achieve their dreams of becoming medical professionals. Students who have worked with her have been accepted to prestigious medical schools, including the Yale School of Medicine, Cooper School of Medicine of Rowan University, and New York College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Medical School: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Dr. Turner holds an MBBS/MD from the University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London. She completed her advanced training in pediatrics and infectious disease, with a fellowship in medical oncology through programs at the University of Ilorin, University of Ibadan, McGill University, and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
Dr. Turner brings 29 years of mentorship and admissions consulting experience, working with students across the globe. Her approach blends academic rigor with compassionate guidance, helping international and domestic students gain admission to top-tier medical institutions such as Johns Hopkins, Duke, the University of North Carolina, McGill, University College Hospital London, and many more.
Dr. Turner has served on admissions committees in the U.S., UK, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and the EU in roles ranging from assistant screener to Director of Admissions. Her insider perspective, paired with her deep understanding of both the academic and healthcare landscapes, makes her an invaluable advisor for students applying to medical school, residency, and international universities.
With years of experience as a Senior Medical Director, Dr. Turner’s passions are new drug development to cure cancer and also to support prospective students on their paths toward becoming physicians. Dr Turner's passion is to continue to make a difference in the lives of people she comes in contact with.
Undergrad: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Medical School: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine


Undergrad: Brooklyn College
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences College of Medicine
After medical school, Dr. Abramowitz completed his internal medicine residency at SUNY Downstate and is now pursuing a gastroenterology fellowship at Kings County Hospital. In addition to his clinical training, Dr. Abramowitz has a strong research background. He has authored multiple first-author publications and presented at numerous national conferences, contributing to the fields of internal medicine and gastroenterology.
Having served as both an interviewer and application reviewer for SUNY Downstate’s admissions committee, Dr. Abramowitz knows what programs are really looking for. Students he has coached have been accepted to medical programs at SUNY Downstate, New York Medical College, Touro University, and Hofstra University. As a mentor, Dr. Abramowitz brings a thoughtful, strategic approach to each applicant’s story, helping students identify their strengths, address weaknesses, and submit competitive, authentic applications.
Undergrad: Brooklyn College
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences College of Medicine


Undergrad: Brown University
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences College of Medicine
Graduate School: Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
During medical school, Dr. Alt received the Lowell E. Bellin, MD Award for Excellence in Preventive Medicine and Community Health and began what would become a lifelong commitment to public health and mentorship. Dr. Alt completed residency training in family medicine at Montefiore Medical Center and public health/preventive medicine at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. She served as Chief Resident and later as an Empire Clinical Research Investigator Fellow, developing group well-child visits, launching a dual-degree residency in preventive and family medicine, and contributing to patient-centered medical home research.
As an Associate Program Director at Carney Hospital, Dr. Alt’s role allowed her to gain direct insights into the admissions process and what makes candidates stand out. She also received the Carney Family Medicine Residency Faculty Mentorship Award. In her current role as a faculty coach and clinical associate professor at the Tufts University School of Medicine, Dr. Alt mentors students from their first year through graduation, supporting them through academic, personal, and professional development and guiding many through the residency application process. These experiences have given her a deep understanding of the expectations at every stage of medical training and the insight to help pre-med and medical students present their best selves.
Dr. Alt’s strengths as a coach lie in her ability to connect meaningfully with students, understand their goals, and tailor her guidance to reflect their unique voice and journey. She’s passionate about helping aspiring physicians navigate the complexities of the admissions process. She is drawn to admissions consulting because of her strong commitment to equity in medical education and her belief in the power of mentorship. She finds deep fulfillment in helping others reach their goals and is excited to support the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Undergrad: Brown University
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences College of Medicine
Graduate School: Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health