Meet Inspira Advantage’s Med School Admissions Experts

Dr. Davis graduated from UCLA with a BA in biology. She attended the Drexel School of Medicine after applying through early decision and being accepted. She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center/UCLA, followed by subspecialty training in maternal fetal medicine at Harbor UCLA Medical Center.

Dr. Davis has been a physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology for decades. Although she is doubly boarded in both obstetrics and gynecology and maternal fetal medicine, she has spent the last 16 years of her career working in student health at a large university. Dr. Davis found this latter part of her career quite gratifying since she was able to care for and educate young women, many of whom were newly sexually active, regarding contraception and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

She has also served as a Clinical/Teaching Attending at both Cedars Sinai Medical Center/UCLA and USC. Though she retired from clinical practice, she still interviews for the USC School of Medicine and holds a clinical appointment as a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Keck/USC School of Medicine. 

Dr. Davis’ experiences as an admissions committee member and medical school interviewer have been some of the most important aspects of her work. She believes that selecting outstanding medical school candidates leads to excellent future physicians.

Throughout her career, Dr. Davis has been passionate about counseling and educating individuals who are interested in or have already started a career in medicine. She has won several faculty awards for the education of both medical students and resident physicians in training. Dr. Davis believes it important that applicants are passionate about entering the field and are also aware of the rigors and stress involved in practicing medicine. She feels that medicine is her true calling, and has always felt so privileged to be a physician. 

Dr. Bigham holds a BS in public health from the University of Washington and has been actively involved in orthopedic and anesthesiology research for over nine years. As a research assistant in the Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, he has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, focusing on biomechanics, surgical outcomes, and wearable technology applications in medicine. His research excellence has been recognized with the prestigious Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Seed Grant.

Recognized for his contributions to medicine and service, Dr. Bigham is a recipient of the UW Medicine Community Service Endowed Scholarship and a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. He is also affiliated with the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the Evelyn E. Henley Anesthesia Society, reinforcing his commitment to the field of anesthesiology. 

His contributions have been recognized in 25+ peer-reviewed publications, scientific abstracts, poster presentations, and podium presentations at national and international conferences. Dr. Bigham has actively contributed to medical research by designing a wearable device to reduce neck pain in surgeons and developing a groundbreaking endoscopic surgical device that can suction and grasp tissue simultaneously. 

Beyond research, Dr. Bigham is an innovator in medical technology. As a fellow in the Engineering Innovation in Health Program, he collaborated with engineers to develop an endoscopic surgical device capable of simultaneous tissue suction and grasping, securing a U.S. patent for this groundbreaking invention.

Dr. Bigham’s leadership extends into community service and medical education. He is the Founder and President of the CandleLight Foundation, Co-Founder of the Black Men in White Coats UWSOM chapter, and has served as President of the Student National Medical Association. He has also played an active role in medical school admissions as an ambassador, ensuring a welcoming experience for prospective students. His dedication to mentoring future medical professionals is evident in his work with the Doctor for a Day program, where he helps high school students from underrepresented backgrounds navigate the path to a medical career.

As a coach, Dr. Bigham’s greatest strengths lie in his ability to help candidates break down complex processes into manageable steps. He excels at identifying individuals' strengths and helping them craft compelling personal narratives, drawing from his own experiences of perseverance, resilience, and determination. His coaching approach is grounded in empathy, as he understands the systemic barriers that many students face and is passionate about helping them overcome these challenges.

Dr. Bigham is committed to creating systemic change by mentoring and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals, especially those from marginalized communities. His unique combination of personal experience, academic achievement, and research expertise makes him an invaluable guide for students seeking to achieve their goals in medicine.

Prior to medical school, Dr. Miljanic graduated magna cum laude from Boston College with a BS in biological science. Between college and medical school, he spent three years teaching high school AP Chemistry and AP Physics to socioeconomically disadvantaged communities through Teach for America in Dallas, Texas. Upon entering medical school, he co-founded the Health Career Collaborative - Austin with two former Teach for America colleagues. This mentorship program has served hundreds of pre-medical students, reflecting Dr. Miljanic's ongoing commitment to supporting aspiring healthcare professionals. For his work in founding this academy, Dr. Miljanic and his co-founders were honored with the United States Excellence in Public Health Award, a national recognition from the U.S. government.

Dr. Miljanic’s contributions to the medical field extend beyond clinical practice, as he has published multiple papers in prestigious peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing medical knowledge and research. Throughout his career, he has mentored dozens of students with diverse backgrounds who have been accepted into MD and residency programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, UCLA, UCSD, USC, and more.

Throughout Dr. Miljanic’s residency training, he has published multiple papers in prestigious peer-reviewed journals. He also concurrently earned an MBA from the University of Texas at Dallas. Dr. Miljanic's combination of academic excellence, teaching experience, and dedication to mentorship makes him an excellent source of knowledge for aspiring medical professionals. His journey from a high school teacher to a top-performing medical student and now resident physician proves his ability to navigate the challenges of medical education and career development successfully.

Before attending medical school at Yale University, Dr. Chan worked as a life sciences consultant at a pharmaceutical consulting company. At Yale, she held various leadership positions in the Medical Student Council, served as the president of multiple interest groups, served on the Women in IR Committee for her specialty's society, and published more than 30 papers. She then completed a general surgery internship year at UCSF before pursuing her residency.

Dr. Chan's passion for mentoring and guiding students through the medical school application processes is evident in her comprehensive approach. She begins by understanding each student's motivations and career goals, ensuring they have the necessary academic coursework. Her guidance extends to building strong applications, emphasizing relevant extracurricular activities, crafting compelling personal statements, and securing impactful letters of recommendation.

One of Dr. Chan's greatest strengths as a coach is her ability to decompress complex processes into actionable steps. This approach reduces overwhelm and increases candidates' chances of success. By focusing on what sets each candidate apart, she helps them craft narratives that resonate with admissions committees. Her support extends beyond applications, offering stress management strategies and post-interview follow-up to ensure students remain focused and prepared.

With a strong foundation in admissions counseling, Dr. Chan has helped numerous students achieve their educational and career goals. Her dedication to mentoring and extensive experience in medical education make her an excellent resource for aspiring medical professionals. As she continues her residency at UCSF, Dr. Chan remains committed to guiding the next generation of doctors through the complexities of medical school applications.

Dr. Gupta’s higher education journey began at Duke University, where he graduated summa cum laude with a degree in biomedical engineering, earning departmental distinction for his exceptional academic performance. Dr. Gupta worked as a bioengineer before attending JHUSOM, a role he continued throughout medical school and residency. Throughout medical school, Dr. Gupta was awarded multiple research grants totaling over $300,000. He was also awarded Best Poster at a Johns Hopkins Medical Student Research Symposium.

Dr. Gupta’s passion for counseling stems from the support he has received from great mentors throughout his life. Dr. Gupta recognizes the value of having a supportive mentor on this challenging journey, and he is dedicated to providing that same level of support to students. Students he has mentored have gained acceptance to prestigious medical schools, including Harvard, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Stanford, UChicago, among others.

What sets Dr. Gupta apart as a consultant is his personalized approach. He works with a small handful of students each year, providing them with dedicated attention and crafting unique, specific plans to maximize their success. He believes that each applicant is different and should not be treated as fitting into a cookie-cutter mold.

Dr. Gupta's greatest strengths as a coach lie in his extensive experience with consulting and his ability to quickly identify a student’s strengths and weaknesses. In his mentoring role, he excels at helping applicants craft narratives that highlight their individual experiences and create cohesive stories. His experience as an alumni interviewer at Duke and his success in guiding numerous students through the medical school application process make him a valuable resource for aspiring medical professionals. His mentorship spans a wide range, from middle school to medical students, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to education at all levels.

Each counseling session with Dr. Gupta is goal-oriented yet flexible to accommodate the unexpected. He lets students drive sessions by identifying what they want to focus on and discuss, ensuring they are equipped with the resources and plans needed to answer their questions. Dr. Gupta's nontraditional interests and experiences in medicine position him to guide students with diverse backgrounds and aspirations. He is particularly adept at helping applicants find their personal journey in medicine and is eager to work with students to help them achieve their goals. 

Dr. Zarif attended the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, graduating magna cum laude with a  PharmD degree. He then attended Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, where he earned his medical degree while actively serving the North Philadelphia community. Dr. Zarif is active in volunteer communities with a strong emphasis on access to care for new immigrants, as well as clinical work in his homeland of Egypt. He has consulted for several top 10 healthcare technology companies on implementation and global feasibility.

Before his fellowship, Dr. Zarif served as an attending physician in general surgery at New York Presbyterian, where he was part of the faculty at Columbia University Medical Center. His surgical training was completed at Lenox Hill Hospital-Northwell on Manhattan's Upper East Side, where he distinguished himself as chief resident in his final year. During this time, he was actively involved in the Program Evaluation Committee and residency admissions, gaining insight into the selection process for surgical residents.

Dr. Zarif received additional training in basic microvascular techniques at Columbia University's microsurgery lab. He further honed his skills during a rotation with the Traumatology service at the world-famous Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, MD. His expertise spans a wide range of hand conditions, including trauma-related injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological issues, tendinopathy, arthritis, and vascular pathologies, with a focus on both operative and non-operative management.

His research interests focus on robotic surgical technology, perioperative outcomes, and resident-centered education. Dr. Zarif has presented his findings at several national meetings and published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons. Additionally, he has taught MCAT courses to Penn undergraduates and provided private one-on-one tutoring.

Dr. Zarif's global upbringing has cultivated a deep sense of empathy and understanding for individuals from diverse backgrounds, which greatly influences his patient care approach. He believes that hands are our passport to the world around us, empowering skilled laborers, inspiring artists, assisting surgeons, and facilitating everyday tasks from grandmothers cooking to toddlers playing. 

Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Zarif is passionate about resident advocacy and wellness. He is dedicated to helping surgical residents become productive and efficient while minimizing burnout, a critical issue in the demanding field of surgery.

Dr. Zarif’s approach to admissions counseling is holistic, believing that no single factor—be it a score or a particular school—should definitively keep an applicant out of contention. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity and finding the right fit rather than focusing solely on prestigious names.

Born in Baltimore, Dr. Ladines-Lim’s time at the Yale School of Medicine further solidified his passion for medicine and his desire to make a global impact. After medical school, he earned a PhD in chemical engineering before moving on to his residency training, where he acquired his own research funding for projects on antimicrobial resistance and gun safety in primary care.

Dr. Ladines-Lim has participated in projects on Zika exposure and neurodevelopmental sequelae in infants in Salvador, Brazil, and uptake of tuberculosis preventative therapy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He also worked for the Bertha Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town. As a resident at Michigan Medicine, he spearheaded several impactful projects, including antimicrobial stewardship in immigrant and refugee populations in Southeast Michigan and the use of ICD-10 codes to estimate rates of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in large datasets. His dedication to research and improving patient care is evident in his work, and he aims to continue making significant contributions to the field of adult infectious diseases.

When it comes to coaching, Dr. Ladines-Lim uses the "optimistic realist" approach. As a non-traditional applicant himself, he is keen on picking out the hidden strengths of every student’s application. Dr. Ladines-Lim adapts quickly when needed, ensuring that students stay on track while also allowing them to take the lead with his guidance. His advising style is approachable, creating a relaxed, conversational atmosphere where students feel supported. By balancing clear, goal-oriented planning with adaptability, he maximizes each advising session to help students build confidence and present their strongest applications.

Hallie is a member of the National Institutes of Health Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology from Yale University, where she served as Co-President of the Yale Medical Professions Outreach and Chief of Service for the Yale Emergency Medical Service. Hallie’s admissions experience, including her role as the student lead for STEM recruitment at Yale, equips her with expert insights into the application process. She also supervised medical students in the Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience at Cambridge.

Hallie has worked on a variety of research projects spanning astrophysics, computational genomics, cell biology, viral pathogenesis, regenerative biology, and neuroimmunology. Her research has resulted in 13 co-authored scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. While at JHU, Hallie was awarded a Gates-Cambridge Scholarship and a Roy and Diana Vagelos Leadership Award.

As a counselor, Hallie excels in helping prospective applicants highlight their strengths and put their best foot forward in applications and interviews. She understands the anxiety that often accompanies the medical school application process and shares stress management and organizational techniques to ease this burden. Her background in highly selective admissions and tutoring allows her to approach the application process with empathy, enthusiasm, and a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes. Her approach helps prospective applicants highlight their strengths and navigate the application process with confidence. Students Hallie has coached have gained admission to top medical institutions such as UCLA, Johns Hopkins, and UChicago.

Hallie's dedication to mentoring and her diverse experiences in research and education positions her as a knowledgeable coach for aspiring medical professionals. Her ability to connect with students and guide them through the complexities of the application process ensures they are well-prepared for their future careers in medicine.

Dr. Lanier’s academic journey began at Northeastern University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a dual degree in biology and international affairs. During her undergraduate studies, she developed a strong passion for global health, studying abroad in Argentina, Uruguay, and Ghana. She also pursued medicine-related co-ops in Uganda and Wales at Cardiff University, gaining valuable international experience. Her commitment to research is evident in her work at the Northeastern University Center for Drug Discovery and volunteer duties at Boston Children’s Hospital over the course of her undergraduate education

Dr. Lanier earned her MD from the University of Utah School of Medicine, where she continued to pursue her interests in global health while working as a mentor and tutor for pre-med and medical students. She served on the leadership team for the Student Global Health Initiative and completed a rotation abroad in Rwanda. Alongside her MD, Dr. Lanier graduated with a graduate certificate in global medicine.

Her unique perspective as a first-generation college graduate and medical student allows her to empathize with those of all backgrounds navigating the challenges of medical school admissions. She is committed to providing mentorship and assistance to future physicians in every aspect of their journeys.

Dr. LaRivière attended both Reed College and the University of Connecticut, earning a BA in political science from Reed and a BS in molecular/cell biology from UConn. He successfully navigated the competitive MD/PhD admissions process, matriculating to the University of Colorado MSTP and completing his dual degree. During his eight years in the MSTP program, he was extensively involved in admissions and mentoring junior students. 

Dr. LaRivière has worked with individuals from various backgrounds, including students from the Reed College alumni network and the Mayo Clinic post-baccalaureate program, guiding them to acceptance at MD and MD-PhD programs. Students he has worked with have been accepted to top medical programs at the University of Minnesota (MD/PhD program), Columbia University, UT Health Sciences Center, Michigan State University, and the University of Washington (MD/PhD program).

Dr. LaRivière has received numerous prestigious awards, including the NHLBI Ruth L. Kirschstein NRSA (F31), the CU School of Medicine Clinical Professionalism Award, the American Transplant Foundation Steve Farber Award, and the Alden Harken Clinical Science in Surgery Award. He is also a prolific researcher with 14 peer-reviewed publications and 10 published abstracts.

Dr. LaRivière's diverse educational background, which includes a PhD in pharmacology as part of his doctoral education, has given him a specialized perspective on the challenges faced by aspiring medical professionals from non-scientific backgrounds. He is passionate about helping others from diverse backgrounds find their dreams in a career in medicine. 

As a coach, Dr. LaRivière excels in guiding students through the application cycle in a stepwise, manageable fashion, ensuring they remain focused and organized throughout the process. He also has a keen ability to help applicants find their inner voice, enabling them to craft compelling narratives that showcase their strengths and experiences.

As Research Chief of his department during residency, Dr. Ng has an impressive portfolio of 160+ published manuscripts, 350+ poster/podiums, and 5 book chapters. Dr. Ng is a reviewer and on the editorial board of several leading medical and orthopedic journals, including The Spine Journal, Spine, The Journal of Arthroplasty, and Arthroplasty. Additionally, he is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Thessalus Capital, a healthcare investment firm featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, and CNBC. Dr. Ng previously served as a junior analyst at Ferghana Partners, an investment bank specializing in life sciences and specialty chemicals, and now is a medical affairs advisor.

He began his academic journey at Princeton University, where he majored in molecular biology and graduated with honors. He then attended Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine for his MD, again graduating with honors in research. As an admissions interviewer at Case Western, he played a key role in evaluating applicants and gained valuable insight into what makes a candidate stand out. With 10+ years of coaching experience, Dr. Ng has helped students gain acceptance to medical schools at Harvard, Princeton, Yale, UPenn, Columbia, Brown, NYU, UPitt, Johns Hopkins, Rutgers, and Duke.

Dr. Ng's passion for mentoring stems from his own experiences navigating the complex world of medical school and residency applications. He understands the challenges students face, including ESL, first-generation, and international applicants, as well as non-traditional students and re-applicants. Drawing from his own successes and challenges, Dr. Ng creates a supportive and non-judgmental environment for students, helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

As a counselor, Dr. Ng excels at merging his practical experience with academic inquiry, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the medical school and residency application processes. His diverse background brings a unique perspective on healthcare and innovation to his mentorship and advisory roles. 

Dr. Pammal's passion for healthcare and leadership began during his undergraduate years at Harvard University, where he studied history of science, global health, and health policy. While at Harvard, he served as Director-General of Harvard Model United Nations, an Executive Board Member of the South Asian Healthcare Leadership Forum, and wrote his senior thesis on healthcare reform for prescription drug pricing.

After graduating from Harvard, Dr. Pammal gained experience as a consultant at Clarion Healthcare, a life sciences consulting firm in Boston, MA. There, he provided strategic advice to pharmaceutical and biotech companies across the clinical development spectrum. Despite his demanding work schedule, he remained committed to community service, volunteering in the hospital lobby at Massachusetts General Hospital on weekends.

While at NYMC, Dr. Pammal was selected to deliver the student remarks at various ceremonies and events. Upon graduation,  he was awarded the prestigious William Cullen Bryant Award for outstanding leadership, academic excellence, and service to the College's community.

Dr. Pammal strongly believes in the power of mentorship and is passionate about serving as an enthusiastic guide to the next generation of future physicians. Drawing from his own experiences and the advice he has received over the years, he is committed to helping aspiring medical students achieve their dreams and make a positive impact in the field of medicine.

Dr. Chung's academic journey began at MIT, where she obtained her undergraduate degree in biology and Spanish with a perfect GPA. During her time at MIT, she was also involved in Camp Kesem, Globemed, and peer tutoring within her sorority and the Department of Biology. Dr. Chung actively contributed to research projects exploring cancer proteomics and investigating morphological changes caused by seizures in murine models. These experiences not only deepened her understanding of the scientific process but also fueled her passion for translational research and its potential to improve patient outcomes.

In college, Dr. Chung also worked as a certified crisis counselor, providing meaningful support and guidance to survivors of sexual assault. Additionally, she played an important role on her undergraduate student government's presidential advisory council, an excellent example of her leadership skills and her ability to contribute to important decision-making processes.

Her passion for learning inspired her to pursue her medical degree at Yale University. At Yale, she tutored first- and second-year students, precepted clinical workshops for third-year students, and was invited to speak at internal medicine grand rounds as the winner of an essay competition. She served as Chapter President for the medical student section of the American Medical Association and guided several policies toward recommendations for adoption.

While completing medical school, Dr. Chung completed an international elective in Bogota, Colombia, volunteered at the HAVEN free clinic, and fostered her early career as a physician-scientist by spending four years as a clinical researcher in Yale’s Orthopedic Surgery Department and Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department.

Following her graduation from medical school, Dr. Chung completed her general surgery intern year at Brigham and Women's Hospital before becoming a categorical general surgery resident at the University of California, San Diego. She has also been a Surgical Outcomes Analysis & Research Initiative (SOAR) research fellow at the Boston Medical Center. Dr. Chung also participated in the Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian Research Fellowship and was awarded the Health Resources Services Administration's (HRSA) National Research Service Award Grant.

Dr. Chung's passion for counseling stems from her own experiences navigating the challenges of medical training and residency. Inspired by the support she received from mentors, she is dedicated to offering the same guidance to others, using her background to empower individuals and help them build resilience.

What sets Dr. Chung apart as a consultant is her ability to integrate resilience, empathy, and personal growth into her guidance. She helps students navigate both the technical and emotional aspects of medical school and residency applications, emphasizing qualities like grit and empathy. Her approach transforms challenges into compelling narratives, helping students stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

Dr. Chung's strengths as a consultant are rooted in her extensive experience in general surgery and surgical outcomes research, combined with her diverse training at top institutions. This expertise, along with her editorial experience at prestigious journals, enables her to provide clear, constructive feedback to help students articulate their strengths effectively.

Dr. Mellacheruvu initially began his college career at the University of Washington with dreams of playing competitive cricket. However, a sports injury sustained during a study abroad trip in Oxford unexpectedly ignited his passion for medicine. Dr. Mellacheruvu graduated from the UW Honors College with a degree in biochemistry, setting the stage for his future in the medical field.

Choosing to stay close to home,  Dr. Mellacheruvu completed his medical education at Washington State University. During his clinical rotations, he developed a deep interest in cardiology, which would shape his future career aspirations. 

Throughout medical school, Dr. Mellacheruvu demonstrated his commitment to advocacy and research. He became involved with national advocacy through the American College of Physicians, working to promote the interests of internal medicine physicians and their patients. Simultaneously, he participated in cardiometabolic research collaborations with teams at institutions such as Massachusetts General Hospital, Duke University, Northwestern University, the University of Washington, and the University of Pennsylvania.

Between college and medical school, Dr. Mellacheruvu gained valuable clinical and research experience. He worked as a scribe for an oncology clinic, gaining firsthand exposure to patient care and the inner workings of a medical practice. Additionally, he served as a research assistant at NanoString Technologies, working on breast cancer assays.

Dr. Mellacheruvu's ultimate goal is to build long-term relationships with his students, providing support and guidance throughout their journey to medical school and beyond. He recognizes that each individual has their own story and is dedicated to helping them maximize their storytelling potential through their applications, personal statements, and interviews. He aims to be not only a knowledgeable resource but also a supportive companion during the challenging application process.

Dr. Kalagara graduated summa cum laude from Brown University with a 4.0 GPA and a degree in biology. In medical school, she earned honors in all her clinical rotations. Over the course of her educational journey, she has co-authored nearly 50 publications and earned a cumulative $50,000+ in innovation grants to support her research work. Throughout college and medical school, Dr. Kalagara has served as a teaching assistant for multiple courses. Her experience as a TA has taught her how to cater to different learning styles and educational goals. 

One of Dr. Kalagara's greatest strengths as a coach lies in her ability to approach sessions from a holistic, bird's-eye perspective. This approach allows her to keep sight of the goal while paying attention to critical details that might otherwise be overlooked. By maintaining this balanced view, Dr. Kalagara ensures students receive comprehensive guidance that addresses both the big picture and the finer points of the medical school application process. Dr. Kalagara starts each counseling session with a recap of where a student is in the application cycle.

Dr. Kalagara offers fresh, relevant insights into the medical school application process and the realities of medical education. Her passion for innovation in medicine, particularly in neurosurgery and device development, provides her with a specialized perspective that can guide students interested in cutting-edge areas of medical research and practice. Her track record of academic excellence, teaching experience, and innovative thinking makes Dr. Kalagara an excellent guide for aspiring medical students.

Dr. Ravi discovered her pre-med mentorship at Rice University. During her undergraduate years, she held leadership roles in the Rice University Pre-Medical Society and served as a senior interviewer on the university’s admissions team. In these roles, Dr. Ravi gained experience hosting various sessions and workshops for pre-medical students and conducting mock interviews for applicants. She was also named to the Rice University President’s Honor Roll and received the Distinction in Research Award (Biosciences).

In medical school, Dr. Ravi guided incoming students through the Big Sibling program. She also served as a research liaison for students interested in neurology and neurosurgery. Dr. Ravi has 15+ publications, and her research contributions span cancer nanotechnology, head and neck surgery, and interventional neurology and stroke. As a resident at Houston Methodist Hospital, Dr. Ravi was awarded the American Academy of Neurology Medical Student Prize for Excellence and the Holzenburg Research Award for Research Excellence.

Dr. Ravi coaches applicants with a personalized approach tailored for each individual. She takes time to understand each applicant’s background and story, helping them determine their strengths and how to showcase these in the admissions process. Dr. Ravi has a deep understanding of the application process and is passionate about making it more accessible for aspiring medical students and residents.

Dr. Patel's academic journey began at the College of New Jersey, where he graduated from the honors program with a Bachelor's degree in biology and a minor in economics. Following his undergraduate studies, he dedicated a year to City Year, an AmeriCorps program, providing classroom and after-school support to 9th-grade students in Queens, NY. This experience deepened his commitment to education and community service.

Before entering medical school, Dr. Patel obtained a Master's degree in biomedical sciences at Rutgers University, further strengthening his scientific foundation. He then matriculated at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS), where he excelled academically and in community service. As a student doctor at the Promise Clinic, he provided care for uninsured patients in the local community, demonstrating his commitment to accessible healthcare. Throughout his medical career, he has also published manuscripts and presented his work at both national and international conferences.

Dr. Patel's passion for teaching and mentorship is evident in his diverse experiences. He has worked as an SAT and MCAT tutor and has coached inmates for the GED at a correctional facility. At Rutgers RWJMS, he helped coordinate the mentorship program between master’s biomedical sciences students and first-year medical students.

As a mentor, Dr. Patel has successfully guided numerous applicants through the medical school and residency application process. He understands the challenges of these rigorous application processes and excels at breaking them down into manageable steps. Dr. Patel has always enjoyed working with students, and his approach focuses on helping applicants convey their motivations and highlight their individual achievements.

Dr. Cheng’s academic excellence began during her undergraduate studies at USC, where she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in neuroscience and a minor in health care studies. Raised in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Dr. Cheng's early education at a private Christian international school and her mission trips to Indonesia and rural China sparked her interest in community outreach and global and rural medicine. This interest has fueled her passion for education and mentorship, and she has since gained a wide range of experiences working with students from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.

She has also participated in medical education research with Keck, working to improve inclusivity and diversity in the curriculum. As an admissions coach, Dr. Cheng enjoys guiding students in crafting their unique narratives for their applications.

Prior to medical school, Dr. Cheng gained experience in education, working in college admissions, SAT preparation, and designing curricula for Upward Bound, a program supporting low-income minority high school students pursuing higher education. This background has equipped her with an understanding of the challenges faced by students from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.

In medical school, Dr. Cheng took on leadership roles as the president of the anesthesiology and radiology student interest groups. She also founded Empowering Future Health Professionals, a student organization connecting local high schoolers interested in healthcare with Keck students, further demonstrating her commitment to mentorship and community outreach.

Dr. Cheng believes in a holistic approach to evaluating medical school applicants and enjoys working with students to create narratives that highlight their strengths. Her extensive experience in mentoring, combined with her insider knowledge of the admissions process, positions her as a great mentor for aspiring medical students.

Dr. Rand completed her undergraduate studies at Barnard College, where she majored in English. Driven by her love for literature, she obtained her Master's degree in English and Comparative Literature from Columbia University, further refining her analytical and critical thinking abilities.

While pursuing her passion for literature, Dr. Rand discovered her love for medicine and mental health. Determined to make a positive impact in the healthcare field, she completed the Scripps College Postbaccalaureate Program, which prepared her for the rigors of medical school. Dr. Rand then joined the UC Irvine School of Medicine and received her MD.

Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Rand has demonstrated a strong commitment to tutoring and mentoring. During her time at Barnard College, she worked at the Barnard Writing Center, helping students improve their writing skills and express their ideas effectively. At UC Irvine, she took on the role of a student interviewer, giving her insight into what schools look for in applicants. She also mentored undergraduate pre-med students, providing guidance and support as they navigated their own paths to medicine.

Dr. Rand's passion for helping students find structure and clarity in their thoughts and experiences sets her apart as an admissions counselor. She understands that the medical school and residency application processes can be overwhelming, and she is dedicated to helping students build confidence and highlight their strengths. By working closely with each student, she helps them craft compelling narratives that underscore their personal and academic achievements and commitment to serving others.

Dr. Podury is currently an Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery resident at the University of California San Diego. Before beginning her residency, she earned a BA in neuroscience from Cornell University, where she was a Hunter R. Rawlings Presidential Research Scholar, Barry M. Goldwater Scholar Honorable Mention, and a Phi Beta Kappa member. She earned her MD from Harvard Medical School in the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program.

During her time at Cornell, Dr. Podury earned several awards in recognition of her research, including the Einhorn Discovery Grant, the Zuckerman Prize for Excellence in Bioengineering Research, the Ewing Family Service Award, and the Menschell Cornell Commitment Award. While studying neural circuits, Archana worked at a syringe exchange in Ithaca, New York, where she witnessed firsthand the mechanics of court-based drug rehabilitation. Listening to patients’ stories deepened her conviction that science alone could not capture multiple dimensions of health and disease, which paved her path toward medicine.

At Harvard, Dr. Podury received $90,000 in scholarship support as a Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow and David Margin Graduate Student Leadership Fellow; she was also a recipient of the Massachusetts Medical Society Information Technology Award and Freeberg Student Research Award. Her work has centered on developing technologies to improve patient’s quality of life. In the Boyden Lab at MIT, she used optical imaging methods to characterize circuit dysfunction in human brain organoid models of neurodevelopmental disease, culminating in a publication in Nature. 

Dr. Podury worked in the Dhand Lab at Brigham and Women’s Hospital to apply network science tools to understand how patients’ social environments influence their health outcomes during disability. She is currently working in the Otopathology lab at Massachusetts Eye & Ear to study implant options for patients with sensorineural hearing loss and is applying machine learning methods to study surgical outcomes.

As an admissions coach, she enjoys listening to students' stories and is committed to helping them communicate their interests genuinely and in alignment with their values.

Dr. Kirsch graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science, demonstrating his academic prowess from the outset. He was then admitted to his top-choice medical school, where he continued to excel. Dr. Kirsch scored in the 95th percentile on the USMLE and 99th percentile on the COMLEX exams and also achieved the highest scores on the Pediatrics and Family Medicine Shelf exams.

Following medical school, Dr. Kirsch was accepted into a highly competitive neurology residency program, which he had ranked first overall. His dedication and patient-centered approach were recognized with the Intern of the Year Award. Dr. Kirsch's commitment to education and patient care was further acknowledged with both the Medical Student Teaching Award and the Foley Award for Patient Advocacy and Professionalism. 

Additionally, Dr. Kirsch completed an epilepsy fellowship at Case Western, and he was recognized with the Hans Lüders Epilepsy Award and the Pediatric Neurology Award. Now board-certified, Dr. Kirsch will be working in Missouri. 

As a consultant, Dr. Kirsch's greatest strengths lie in his deep knowledge and experience in the medical field, his ability to break down complex concepts into understandable terms, and his talent for guiding students and physicians through each step of the application and training process. 

Dr. Kirsch's approach to coaching is characterized by his dedication to understanding each student's needs and goals. He leverages his own experiences and successes to provide personalized guidance, whether it's preparing for exams, navigating the medical or residency application process, or developing impactful skills for a successful medical career.

With his exceptional academic background, clinical experience, and genuine passion for mentoring, Dr. Kirsch is well-positioned to guide aspiring and current medical professionals through the challenges of medical education and career development. His commitment to excellence and patient-centered care makes him an ideal mentor for those pursuing a career in medicine.

At Harvard College, Dr. Xiang earned his degree with a major in history of science and a minor in molecular and cellular biology. This background provided him with a holistic understanding of medicine, combining historical context with cutting-edge scientific knowledge. Before starting medical school, Dr. Xiang worked as a health policy intern at New America, working on projects related to federal food assistance, the opioid crisis, and prescription drug pricing.

Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Xiang is an accomplished writer and poet. In 2015, he was honored as a National Student Poet, the highest recognition for youth poets in the United States. His creative work has found a place in prestigious medical journals such as JAMA and Palliative & Supportive Care, demonstrating his ability to bridge the gap between medicine and the humanities. He has published over 25 first-author manuscripts in high-impact journals, and is the co-author on an additional 40+ manuscripts. Dr. Xiang’s role as a Doximity Op-Med fellow further demonstrates his writing skills and highlights his commitment to fostering empathy and understanding within the medical profession through storytelling.

Dr. Xiang has counseled aspiring medical students for several years. His approach is characterized by developing longitudinal and close relationships with students, focusing not only on their immediate goal of medical school admission but also on their future careers and personal aspirations. 

One of Dr. Xiang's greatest strengths lies in his exceptional writing skills. He takes pride in helping students find and nurture their voices through personal statements and essays. Recognizing that writing is often a challenge for many students, Dr. Xiang views this as an opportunity to not only help them represent themselves effectively on paper but also to equip them with valuable skills applicable throughout medical school and their professional careers.

Dr. Okeke attended Vanderbilt University, where he earned a BA in neuroscience. There, he worked as a tour guide, spending time with admissions counselors and learning more about the process. Following graduation, he spent two years as a clinical trials coordinator in the neurology department at Vanderbilt Medical Center working on trials dedicated to neurodegenerative disorders, which further affirmed his decision for a career in medicine.

Dr. Okeke has published research on the indirect effects of racial discrimination on brain white matter and was a Symposium Speaker at the Society of Biological Psychiatry Conference, where he discussed the mediation between prefrontal white matter integrity, racial discrimination, and health outcomes. He plans to subspecialize in vascular neurology (stroke medicine) to gain expertise in the evaluation, management, and treatment of acute vascular emergencies, as well as better expertise in supporting neurorecovery and neurorehabilitation in the post-stroke period.

Dr. Okeke's research interests are primarily focused on traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury, with a particular emphasis on the recovery process. He aims to continue researching implantable devices that can aid rehabilitation and improve patients' quality of life.

As a prior medical school student interviewer, Dr. Okeke brings expert insights into what admissions committees look for in applicants. He emphasizes the importance of crafting a compelling application narrative, focusing on threading different traits and strengths, especially for applicants with lower GPAs or test scores.

Dr. Okeke's approach to mentoring is empathetic, compassionate, and solution-oriented. As a person from a group underrepresented in medicine, he understands the challenges applicants face. He is passionate about making the daunting medical school process more accessible while instilling confidence in students.

With his combination of academic excellence, research experience, and commitment to diversity in medicine, Dr. Okeke is prepared to guide aspiring medical students through every step of their application journey. His dedication to helping students reach their fullest potential makes him a great source of knowledge and support for those navigating the path to a career in medicine.

Prior to medical school, Dr. Huell attended Georgia Institute of Technology as a Stamps President’s Scholar, where he studied neuroscience and graduated with the highest honors. He conducted memory research at Georgia Tech and also pursued neurodegenerative disease research at the NIH, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Dr. Huell had a highly successful medical school admissions cycle, receiving 17 acceptances out of 23 applications. Of these acceptances, 14 were part of the top 20 medical schools. He also received full cost-of-attendance merit scholarships and full-tuition merit scholarships at five and four of these top 20 schools, respectively. He was admitted to NYU’s Accelerated Three-Year MD Pathway for Neurosurgery, allowing him to directly progress into the NYU neurosurgery residency program. Historically, a maximum of one person is selected for this honor each year. 

At NYU, Dr. Huell became President of the NYU Chapter of the Student National Medical Association, Co-President of the NYU Chapter of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Research Chair of NYU Mission Brain, and an emissary to the AAMC Organization of Student Representatives. 

Dr. Huell is now excited to translate the knowledge he has gained from his own highly successful admissions cycle and his experience in NYU Grossman admissions and interviewing to provide the best counseling possible. He is confident about guiding students through every aspect of the admissions cycle, including writing personal statements, editing secondary essays, crafting activity descriptions, building school lists, preparing for interviews, exhibiting fit with a school’s mission, and more. 

Dr. Lee’s academic journey began at Caltech, where he earned his undergraduate degree in bioengineering and contributed to several research projects in cancer biology, leading to high-impact co-authored publications. Dr. Lee spent nearly seven years as a Caltech researcher, was awarded a Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship, and continued his research in collaboration with the Heath Group. After completing his undergraduate studies, Dr. Lee attended the University of Washington School of Medicine and was the first person in his immediate and extended family to pursue medicine. 

After two years of pre-clinical and one year of clinical training in the regular MD program, Dr. Lee decided to switch to the school's Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) for an MD/PhD dual degree. This decision was driven by his desire to gain more scientific training and be better equipped to perform biomedical research long-term as part of his career.

Dr. Lee worked through his PhD training, researching ways to improve cancer immunotherapy by understanding the immunology driving (or hindering) it. His ultimate goal is to practice as a clinician while also participating in translational research to help innovate the management of difficult chronic diseases.

Having lived in Korea and many different parts of the US throughout his life, Dr. Lee developed a keen interest in sciences and how to realize tangible societal impact from scientific development. Dr. Lee’s approach to counseling is flexible and efficient, allowing him to adapt to student needs while ensuring his sessions are impactful. His personal experience as a first-generation medical student and his commitment to bridging science with its impact on the community make him an ideal guide for students ready to apply to medical school or MD/PhD programs.

Dr. Keegan’s academic journey began at Georgetown University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a BS in biology of global health and Spanish. During college, Dr. Keegan demonstrated a strong commitment to research, education, and community service. She worked on research projects in breast cancer, evolutionary medicine, and health disparities in Washington, DC, and was a teaching assistant for the biology department. Her leadership skills were evident in her role as the leader of a student organization focused on health and medical equity, and she volunteered as a medical interpreter at a local free clinic.

Dr. Keegan's academic excellence was recognized through several awards, including the biology department and Spanish departments' graduating senior awards at Georgetown. Her senior thesis was published in the Journal of Evolutionary Medicine and Public Health, and her research on breast cancer was published in the American Journal of Pathology. Additionally, she worked on a book chapter that has since been published about increasing DEI in oncology clinical trials.

Dr. Keegan's passion for community service is evident in her role as the Program Director for the Chicagoland Free Clinics Consortium during her first year in medical school. Her dedication to helping others and her expertise in medical school admissions position her as a knowledgeable mentor for students navigating the challenging application process. Additionally, she has presented at multiple national conferences at Pritzker, and is a Phi Beta Kappa member and Schweitzer Fellow.

As a mentor, Dr. Keegan brings her mix of research experience, teaching skills, and passion for community service to guide aspiring medical students through the complexities of medical school admissions. Her approach is supportive and insightful, drawing from her own experiences navigating the medical school application process. Students she’s worked with have been accepted to programs including Dartmouth, Ohio State, and the Medical College of Wisconsin. 

Throughout his medical training, Dr. Godinich has been actively involved in medical education, admissions, and mentorship, working with students across multiple stages of the pre-medical and medical journey. He has helped hundreds of students craft compelling applications highlighting their strengths and experiences. As a member of the admissions committee at Texas Tech Health Science Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Brandon has evaluated and interviewed 500+ applicants, providing him with key insights into how candidates can stand out. 

Dr. Godinich’s academic journey began at the University of Charleston in West Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in biology with a minor in psychology while competing as a Division I Men’s Volleyball athlete. His performance in both academics and athletics earned him Academic All-American honors, and he was selected by the University President as the President’s Outstanding Senior of the Year. Prior to entering medical school, Dr. Godinich completed dual master's degrees in business administration and healthcare administration through the University of Houston. This training provided him with a strong foundation in healthcare systems, leadership, and organizational strategy, which he continues to integrate into his clinical and educational work.

During his medical training, Dr. Godinich remained actively involved in mentorship, student development, and academic programming. He has worked extensively with pre-medical students on application strategy, essay development, and interview preparation, while also contributing to institutional initiatives focused on student engagement and outreach. Dr. Godinich’s passion for teaching and mentorship is reflected in his long-standing work as an admissions advisor, where he has helped hundreds of students strengthen their applications and successfully gain acceptance to medical school. His experience spans personal statement and secondary essay development, activity list writing, school selection strategy, traditional and MMI interview preparation, and CASPer/PREview coaching.

As a mentor, Dr. Godinich understands the complexity and competitiveness of the admissions landscape and focuses on helping students develop clear, compelling narratives that highlight their strengths, experiences, and motivations. His approach is structured, individualized, and results-driven, ensuring each student is well-positioned for success.

Dr. Mullikin began her journey toward becoming a physician at the University of California, Davis, earning a BS in cellular and molecular biology. Following graduation, she spent three years as a research coordinator at a community hospital, gaining hands-on experience in the healthcare field and solidifying her decision to pursue medicine. 

During her time at Duke, Dr. Mullikin developed a strong interest in plastic surgery and actively engaged in various leadership positions and research projects across multiple specialties.  Besides serving on the Duke School of Medicine admissions committee, Dr Mullikin served as the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Student Body Council, reflecting her commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive academic environments.  

Recognizing the evolving responsibilities of physicians in today's healthcare landscape, Dr. Mullikin decided to simultaneously pursue an MBA at Duke's Fuqua School of Business, further improving her ability to navigate the complex intersection of medicine and business. She was the recipient of multiple scholarships during her educational journey, including the Bovender Family/HCA Minority Scholarship at Duke's Fuqua School of Business and both the Dean's Merit Scholarship and the Franklin and Louise Brown Medical Scholarship at Duke University School of Medicine.

Dr. Mullikin has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and innovation in healthcare. Her research contributions have been recognized with awards, including the Best of 2023 Winter Meeting Oral Podium Presentation from the American College of Academic Plastic Surgeons. Her diverse experiences, from research coordination to her involvement in various medical specialties, have given her a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system and its challenges.

As the daughter of immigrants and the first person in her family to attend college, Dr. Mullikin personally experienced the challenges of navigating the medical school application process. This experience fueled her passion for making the process more accessible to students, a goal she actively pursued through her role on the admissions committee at her medical school. . Her combination of medical expertise, business acumen, and personal experiences position her as a great mentor to aspiring medical professionals. 

Prior to medical school, Dr. Johnson graduated summa cum laude from the University of Denver with a degree in biological sciences and minors in leadership studies, chemistry, psychology, and medical physics. During college, Dr. Johnson was actively involved in various health-related settings. He served as a DU Thrive Peer Health Educator, developing programs and implementing outreach efforts that addressed topics such as sexual health, mental health, and alcohol and other drugs. He also volunteered as a Care Coordinator for the DAWN free clinic, managing the care of uninsured patients alongside medical, dental, pharmacy, and nursing students to ensure culturally sensitive continuity of treatment. Additionally, he was a student EMT during the inaugural year of the DU EMS Rapid Response Unit. 

At Stanford, Dr. Johnson completed a dedicated dermatology research year focused on novel therapies and clinical outcomes research for Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex (EBS), contributing to efforts aimed at improving future therapeutic development and disease assessment tools. His broader academic interests include dermatologic innovation, medical education, mentorship, and building systems that improve access to opportunity for future physicians. His participation in the DU Pioneer Leadership and Stanford Leadership in Health Disparities programs further highlights his dedication to becoming a socially conscious physician leader.

As an advisor, Dr. Johnson is known for combining strategic insight with direct, individualized mentorship tailored to each applicant’s goals, strengths, and narrative. Students who Dr. Johnson has worked with have gone on to achieve success across medical school admissions, research, and residency preparation.

At UPenn, Dr. Sharma graduated magna cum laude with honors in biology and a minor in the biological basis of behavior and healthcare management. She acted as chair of the College of Arts and Science Penn Student Government, Co-Leader at the Cut Hypertension Community Clinic, and Director of Special Events of the Internal Affairs Association. Before entering medical school, Dr. Sharma spent two years working in life sciences consulting at ClearView Healthcare Partners in Boston, gaining experience in the healthcare industry. 

At Perelman, Dr. Sharma was actively involved in various initiatives that demonstrated her commitment to healthcare innovation and community service. She has worked with the Penn Medicine/Wharton Fund for Health and Wharton Investment Venture Associates, exploring the intersection of business and medicine. Additionally, Dr. Sharma co-founded an accelerator for social determinants of health startups through Penn HealthX, demonstrating her dedication to addressing the social determinants of health.

Dr. Sharma's research experience includes working at the Center for Surgery and Health Economics, where she has contributed to advancing knowledge in the field of surgery and health economics. Her other involvements at Perelman include the Oncology Interest Group, South Asian Medical Student Association, and Unity Community Clinic, highlighting her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, presented at multiple conferences, and has been featured in academic and media publications. She is also passionate about global health and has worked in Peru, Galapagos, Japan, Morocco, and Botswana.

Dr. Sharma's approach to mentoring is characterized by her enthusiasm, empathy, and dedication to helping others achieve their goals. She is excited to work with applicants from diverse backgrounds and provide personalized guidance and support throughout the medical school application process. Her blend of experience in life sciences consulting, research, and community service, combined with her involvement in medical school admissions, makes her a stellar mentor. 

In addition to her medical training, Dr. Sharma has recent experience at Hippocratic AI as a healthcare researcher. She is fluent in Hindi and has mentored students from elementary school through medical school. Dr. Sharma strongly believes in individualized coaching approaches and supporting nontraditional paths in medicine or "medicine plus" interests. Her passion for mentoring and experience in admissions make her an invaluable coach for anyone ready to apply to medical school or MD/MBA programs.