


Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
An accomplished researcher, Dr. Chokkara is passionate about improving healthcare outcomes and the quality of care. He has published numerous studies examining the treatment of patients with COPD and asthma, as well as research on the inclusivity of COVID-19 clinical trials for traditionally underrepresented patient populations.
Throughout his medical career, Dr. Chokkara has conducted extensive research applying informatics and machine learning to analyze national trends in healthcare quality and develop readmission prediction tools. These experiences have sharpened his analytical skills and given him unique insight into the potential of emerging technologies to drive data-driven decision-making in medicine. Looking ahead, he hopes to explore how big data and machine learning can be leveraged to enhance patient care.
Dr. Chokkara has also served as a teaching assistant for several courses at the University of Chicago. His experience interviewing prospective students has given him an insider’s perspective on the medical school admissions process, deepening his understanding of what makes an applicant stand out. He leverages this expertise to help students strengthen their applications and navigate this pivotal stage of their careers. For him, the most rewarding part of advising is helping applicants find their voice and present their most authentic, compelling selves. Students he has coached have gained acceptance to top medical schools such as Case Western, Northwestern, the University of Miami, Texas A&M, and Tulane.
One of Dr. Chokkara’s greatest strengths as a coach is guiding applicants in crafting compelling narratives that showcase their motivations for pursuing medicine. While many candidates have strong experiences and aspirations, articulating them in a way that highlights their individuality can be challenging. He believes the best coaching blends structured, goal-oriented guidance with adaptability, ensuring each applicant’s unique journey is authentically represented. His approach breaks the application process into clear, manageable steps that empower students to succeed.
Passionate about mentorship, Dr. Chokkara is eager to share his knowledge and experiences with aspiring medical students, helping them navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead as they work toward becoming skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine


Undergrad: Columbia College at Columbia University
Medical School: NYU Grossman School of Medicine
Dr. Winchester completed her undergraduate studies at Columbia College at Columbia University, receiving a full academic scholarship as an honored John Jay Scholar. While pursuing her studies, she worked in a genomics lab conducting bench research.
After her undergraduate education, Dr. Winchester took a two-year break to work in clinical research. She initially worked for Dr. Chan, exploring the role of genetic mutations in sensorineural hearing loss, and then focused on clinical research projects involving virology and the spread of disease at the NYULH Department of Emergency Medicine. Despite her busy schedule, she also tutored high school students in preparation for the SAT/ACT while applying to medical schools herself. Dr. Winchester attended NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s accelerated 3-year pathway and is training in the Department of Otolaryngology. After residency, she hopes to pursue a fellowship in Neurotology.
Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Winchester has always been passionate about mentorship. She has tutored middle schoolers in science and math and assisted them with SAT/ACT preparation and college essays. While in medical school, she was involved in admissions, participating in the NYU multiple mini interview process.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Winchester enjoys helping students identify and communicate their strengths and passions through their applications. Recognizing that every applicant has key strengths that they need to frame, she enjoys helping them determine their best approach. Her greatest strengths include helping students develop their personal stories and organization – think a good to-do list and lots of color coding!
Undergrad: Columbia College at Columbia University
Medical School: NYU Grossman School of Medicine


Undergrad: Davidson College
Medical School: Duke University School of Medicine
Dr. Akrobetu graduated with a 3.99 GPA from Davidson College, where he majored in biology and minored in chemistry. His outstanding academic performance and involvement in several research projects, including investigations into the genetics of mitochondrial morphology and glycopolymer scaffold synthesis, earned him grant funding to travel to the University of Dusseldorf in Germany for his research. His exceptional achievements in scientific research at the undergraduate level were recognized with the prestigious National Goldwater Scholarship.
After graduation, Dr. Akrobetu earned an MD from Duke University School of Medicine. During his time at Duke, he demonstrated strong leadership skills, serving as class president and spearheading an annual, year-long educational program for underprivileged high school students interested in medicine. His dedication to academic excellence and community engagement was evident in his medical school application, which received the highest possible rating from Davidson College in its internal review process.
As the first in his family to become a doctor, Dr. Akrobetu took it upon himself to learn the ins and outs of the medical school application process and is passionate about making medical school accessible for everyone, regardless of background. His commitment to equity and inclusion in medical education is a driving force behind his coaching success.
Dr. Akrobetu's admissions experience enables him to take a nuanced approach to holistic application review. He has a comprehensive understanding of how to strategically shape each facet of a student's application, positioning them as the most competitive candidate. His expertise in crafting compelling narratives, highlighting unique experiences, and showcasing academic and extracurricular achievements ensures that students stand out in the highly competitive medical school admissions process.
Undergrad: Davidson College
Medical School: Duke University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine
Dr. Chen earned her BA in biology and anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis, graduating magna cum laude with a 3.91 GPA. During this time, she served as the WUSTL Pre-Med Society's President and a resident advisor.
Dr. Chen then attended Washington University School of Medicine on multiple merit-based scholarships, including the Waltke Memorial Scholarship, the Scholars in Medicine Academic Scholarship, and the Harrison’s Academic Scholarship.
After graduating from medical school, Dr. Chen went on to finish her internal medicine residency, serving as Chief Resident, and completed a gastroenterology fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis/Barnes Jewish Hospital, where she received the Thomas and Mary Eckert Fellowship Clinical Research Fund and was honored as a Fellow of the Year at the John Cochran Veterans Administration Medical Center. Dr. Chen now specializes in diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, focusing on colon cancer screening and prevention, including endoscopy and colonoscopy.
From an early start as a high-achieving student, Dr. Chen discovered her passion for mentorship by tutoring peers and leading student groups. Throughout her fellowship, she continued advising students on medical school and residency applications, drawing on her own successes.
As a former admissions committee member at Washington University in St. Louis, she offers invaluable insider insight into the admissions process. She is dedicated to helping applicants present their best selves in the competitive admissions process for medical school, residency, and beyond, tailoring her guidance to each individual. Dr. Chen finds great fulfillment in supporting students as they work toward their professional aspirations.
Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine


Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Dr. Donohue's medical education journey began outside of Boston, where she attended Vanderbilt University. There, she pursued a diverse academic path, majoring in neuroscience, Spanish, and biology. During her time at Vanderbilt, Dr. Donohue gained experience that shaped her future success. She served as a pre-med advisor, providing guidance and support to fellow students navigating the path to medical school. Additionally, she engaged in clinical research, graduating with several first-author publications, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. She also volunteered at various organizations, including St. Jude's fundraising, a local food bank, and as an ESL instructor.
Dr. Donohue's exceptional academic achievements and diverse experiences paved the way for her admission to the T.H. Chan School of Medicine, where she was part of the Population-Based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track, focusing on population health and healthcare disparities. At T.H. Chan, she received several recognitions for her achievements , including the Leadership Award for Distinguished Service and the Outstanding Accomplishment in the Longitudinal Capstone Scholarship and Discovery Course.
Dr. Donohue continued to excel, serving on the admissions committee and providing advice regarding the selection process. Dr. Donohue's community work also garnered recognition, as she was featured on local news channels for her efforts. During medical school, she also led advising groups and served as a medical school admission counselor, working with applicants one-on-one and in group settings. She was then accepted into her first-choice pediatric residency program.
Dr. Donohue thrived clinically at the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, where she received several awards to fund her research. She values meaningful patient connections and emphasizes the importance of enjoying life outside of medicine. She understands the complexities of navigating the path to becoming a doctor while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and she is committed to sharing her experiences and strategies with students.
With years of mentoring experience, Dr. Donohue has been guiding students since high school and continued through her undergraduate and medical school years. Now in residency, she provides self-empowerment and helps students lead their application cycles, offering guidance, advice, and edits while allowing them to take charge.
What sets Dr. Donohue apart as a consultant is her person-first focus. She believes that medical school is a unique experience that should fit personal needs and future desires, creating four years of great memories where one learns medicine and grows as a person. She prioritizes personal happiness in her life and with every student.
Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her detail-oriented approach and her ability to focus on both small details and big-picture thinking. She pays special attention to personal branding and how candidates present themselves in their applications, ensuring well-rounded care. With a strong focus on overall well-being, balance, and goal achievement, she takes an organized, hands-on approach that keeps students on track while fostering growth and confidence. Her ultimate goal is to guide students toward success—ensuring they gain admission to the program of their dreams.
Dr. Donohue approaches each counseling session with organization and focus, aiming to answer questions, alleviate anxieties, and organize students for a straightforward, task-based application process. Her passion for counseling stems from the support she received from countless mentors, networking calls, and advice throughout her journey. She feels indebted to them and is committed to giving back by helping guide the future of healthcare professionals.
Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine


Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Meharry Medical College
Dr. Obanor began his higher education journey at Duke University, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a focus on biochemistry. During college, he was recognized on the Dean’s List at Trinity College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Obanor went on to receive his MD from Meharry Medical College, earning the Chauncey O. Daugherty, M.D. Award and the Timothy Simon/Timothy Sherwood Shaw NBC Inc. Scholarship.
Currently, Dr. Obanor is a staff psychiatrist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, with clinical academic affiliations at the University of California, Riverside, the University of California, Irvine, and Charles R. Drew University. His professional interests span behavioral economics, social philosophy, trauma, cultural competency, substance use, social determinants of health, and outreach to at-risk communities. Dr. Obanor’s commitment to equitable mental health care is rooted in his training experiences with underserved and marginalized populations. He has authored research on topics such as narcissism in medical training, with his work featured in Fortune Journals.
As a coach, Dr. Obanor leverages his personal journey as an underrepresented minority in medicine to guide students through the complexities of the admissions process. He excels at crafting individualized admissions strategies that highlight each applicant’s passions and experiences, using a flexible and holistic approach. With years of coaching experience, he has helped students gain acceptance to institutions such as Meharry Medical College, Wake Forest University, Duke University, UNC, Ohio State University, and others.
Dr. Obanor is adept at working with students from a multitude of backgrounds. He takes pride in identifying key strengths and weaknesses to create a personalized plan that governs the overall approach to the application process. Dr. Obanor is eager to partner with students from all walks of life to enlighten their personal journey in medicine and subsequently achieve their career goals.
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Meharry Medical College
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Undergrad: California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Dr. Munoz graduated summa cum laude from California State University San Marcos with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry after being recruited to play softball for the university before attending Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Her impressive performance during the residency application process led to more than 20 interviews in her chosen specialty of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Ultimately, Dr. Munoz matched at a top 10 program in the country for this specialty, the University of Wisconsin, where she worked towards a fellowship in microsurgical reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Munoz's passion for advising and working with students stems from her own experiences and challenges throughout medical school and residency application processes. As the first in her family to graduate with a college degree, she overcame numerous obstacles in the preparation for and admission to medical school and residency, from which she learned immensely. This personal journey has fueled her desire to make the process more streamlined, straightforward, efficient, and successful for future students. She draws on her extensive training in communication, teaching, and leadership to guide students with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Munoz’s 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees, which she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals. She takes a flexible and student-centered approach, adapting quickly to each student’s needs and adjusting plans as necessary. Dr. Munoz fosters a friendly, approachable, and conversational atmosphere, ensuring students feel empowered throughout their journey. With a focus on positivity and patience, she builds students’ confidence by celebrating their progress and ensuring they fully understand the next steps.
Undergrad: California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Washington
Graduate School: Harvard University, University of Washington
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine
Additionally, Dr. Hunter acted as a resource for administrators and faculty outside the PPHS program. He chaired the committee that selected students for PPHS scholarships and led both external and internal advisory committees. He also recruited and trained faculty and students regarding the program's mission and culture. As a professor and program director, Dr. Hunter established a bioethics and medical humanities curriculum to improve his students' understanding of health disparities and the essential social determinants of health.
Dr. Hunter began his higher education journey at the University of Washington, earning an Honors Bachelor’s degree before attending Harvard Divinity School and obtaining an MA in history and philosophy of science and technology. He then attended the Harvard Graduate School of Education, earning an MEd in urban education and leadership and an MA in history of science. He then obtained a PhD in philosophy from the University of Washington before graduating from the UW School of Medicine with a degree in bioethics and medical ethics.
His influence extends to the pre-health advising community, where he has served as a liaison to the American Medical College Association committee, leading the development of a groundbreaking model for holistic medical education. Dr. Hunter's commitment to improving his community is evident through his board membership, where he played a pivotal role in launching non-profit mental health and pediatric clinics that emphasize an integrated health model.
Furthermore, Dr. Hunter taught a humanities-based course focused on health equity through structural competency in healthcare. He collaborated with stakeholders on campus, in the city, and across the state to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Additionally, he partnered with local and national leaders on pipeline programs.
Previously, Dr. Hunter served as Community Co-Lead and Program Manager at the Odessa Brown Children's Clinic, where he developed strategic initiatives, established governance structures, and fostered partnerships with community organizations. Before that, he was Assistant Director & Teaching Fellow at the John Perkins Center at Seattle Pacific University, focusing on diversity and equity education. He also worked as an admissions officer and Wilcox Fellow at Concord Academy, emphasizing diversity in applicant interviews and teaching, and as a Program Manager at Boston Public Schools.
Dr. Hunter has received several prestigious awards, including the Gordon C. Lee Outstanding Dissertation Award from the University of Washington, the McNair Fellowship from the University of Washington, and the Graduate Prize Fellowship from Harvard University. His PhD thesis was titled "Ambivalence and Transformation in Black Male Literacy Narratives: Grounds for Reaching Out to Black Males."
Dr. Hunter is currently the Executive Director of Seattle Narrative-Based Coaching and Consulting, where he implements innovative coaching approaches to improve client engagement and business development. He is also President of the Harvard Black Alumni Society Seattle Chapter and a Board Member of the Martin Family Charitable Foundation. He previously served on the boards of The Epiphany School and the Center for Diversity and Health Equity Community Taskforce at Seattle Children's Hospital.
In his advising sessions, Dr. Hunter emphasizes seven factors that medical school admissions committees consider in their holistic evaluations. The first pillar is academic competence, including grades and test scores. He also stresses the importance of collegiality, volunteer work, and job experience, encouraging students to view their preparation as not just academic but also relational. He helps students identify suitable community service opportunities that foster their moral and professional development.
Another factor involves narrative medicine, highlighting the significance of personal statements and secondary essays as tools for reflection. Medical observation or shadowing is another pillar of his approach; admissions committees value the proactive exploration of the medical field. Building relationships with physicians is crucial, as these contacts can provide valuable letters of evaluation.
Dr. Hunter helps students engage in vocational discernment, reflecting on their fit for a medical career with input from faculty, friends, and mentors. These experiences ultimately help them write thoughtful personal statements and prepare for interviews, clarifying the essential areas of their applications.
Students Dr. Hunter has coached have been accepted to numerous medical programs, including Columbia, University of Washington, Washington University, Wake Forest, Loma Linda, Creighton, UCSD, UC Davis, NYU, Hawaii, Emory, OHSU, University of Chicago, Northwestern, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and many others. With a blend of warmth, humor, and a wealth of experience, Dr. Hunter is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their goals and navigate their unique paths to success.
Undergrad: University of Washington
Graduate School: Harvard University, University of Washington
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine


Undergrad: Brown University
Business School: Duke Fuqua School of Business
Medical School: Duke University School of Medicine
Dr. Harshbarger attended Brown University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. She then spent two years working full-time in clinical research at Massachusetts General Hospital before attending medical school at the Duke University School of Medicine. While at Duke, she earned her MD and spent two years pursuing full-time studies at the Duke Fuqua School of Business, where she achieved Dean's List each semester to earn an MBA with a certificate in Health Sector Management and a concentration in Financial Statement Analysis. She graduated as the first doctor in her family and went on to match at her number one choice residency in Emergency Medicine at Harvard, where she now works as a senior resident physician in the Emergency Room.
Dr. Harshbarger's passion for mentorship and admissions has been a driving force throughout her academic career. Her exceptional skills and dedication have earned her national accolades in Collegiate Mock Trial and distinctions in public speaking, prose, and poetry. She has published in top scientific journals and worked in labs spanning from animal to human subjects, most notably at MIT's Picower Institute.
As a mentor, Dr. Harshbarger's greatest strength lies in her ability to draw from her diverse experiences and provide comprehensive guidance to her mentees. Her firsthand knowledge of the medical school admissions process, combined with her business acumen and research background, allows her to offer deep insights and strategies to help students navigate the competitive landscape of medical education.
Undergrad: Brown University
Business School: Duke Fuqua School of Business
Medical School: Duke University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Dr. Stone began his academic journey at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he graduated with a double major in biomedical sciences and pre-clinical health sciences. While at UCF, he was actively involved as an orientation leader, resident assistant, and biology tutor.
Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Stone received acceptances from several prestigious institutions but chose the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded the Dean’s Diversity Full Cost of Attendance Scholarship, covering the entire cost of attendance for four years of medical school. Upon graduation, Dr. Stone matched into a residency position at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, one of the nation’s top ophthalmology programs accepting only six residents per year.
Dr. Stone has an extensive research portfolio that includes studies on the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, advancements in diabetic retinopathy screening, and innovative approaches to addressing barriers in eye care. He has been published in multiple journals such as the Journal of Vascular Surgery, the Journal of Prehospital Emergency Care, and the Journal of Academic Ophthalmology, with multiple first-author manuscripts. His presentations at national conferences, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery, highlight his ability to translate complex topics into actionable insights.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Stone leverages his firsthand understanding of the challenges applicants face at every stage of the process. Drawing on his experience from both sides of the admissions table, he offers a personalized, compassionate approach. He excels at helping students identify their strengths, address vulnerabilities, and craft authentic narratives that resonate with admissions committees.
Above all, Dr. Stone is passionate about shaping the next generation of physicians. By offering empathetic guidance and rigorous preparation, he ensures that every applicant he mentors has the tools to excel in medicine and beyond.
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine


Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Dr. Sudhir's passion for medicine took root in Iowa, where she grew up and developed an early interest in the field. During her undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins, Dr. Sudhir was Medical Student Mentor Committee Chair for Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED), and spent over two years as an EM, providing emergency medical services for community members in and near the Hopkins Homewood Campus.
After completing college, Dr. Sudhir began her gap year at UCSF, where she served as a lab manager and conducted an independent research project in neuro-oncology. Her exceptional research skills and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge were evident in her co-first authorship of a paper stemming from this project, as well as her achievement of winning the best poster award at the Society for Neuro-Oncology Conference.
Dr. Sudhir’s academic pursuits continued at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Her academic journey has been marked by a strong commitment to research, with an impressive 14 publications to her name, reflecting her dedication to advancing medical knowledge and contributing to the scientific community.
Beyond her academic and research pursuits, Dr. Sudhir has been actively engaged in mentoring and tutoring activities from college through medical school. She has guided pre-medical students through the medical school application process by reviewing personal statements, secondaries, and conducting mock interviews, sharing her expertise and insights to help aspiring medical students achieve their goals. Dr. Sudhir is passionate about mentorship and is committed to helping future physicians navigate the admissions process confidently.
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai


Undergrad: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Dr. Dominy's academic journey led her to UPenn, where she pursued a major in biomedical engineering and a minor in engineering entrepreneurship. Her passion for teaching and computer science was evident through her role as a teaching assistant in the computer science department. During her time at UPenn, Dr. Dominy involved herself in various projects within the med-tech space. She’s the co-founder and developer of a patient education app that provides information to patients about their upcoming medical procedures. Additionally, she worked at a pediatric oncology data science lab at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, leveraging large datasets to write algorithms for analyzing antibiotic resistance in solid cancer patients.
Demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit, Dr. Dominy worked with a team on a year-long project to create a prototype strategy and go-to-market plan for an ingestible device designed to collect images of a patient's gastrointestinal tract for diagnostic purposes. Her senior thesis in biomedical engineering focused on the history of intrauterine device development and future strategies to improve the field, demonstrating her ability to critically analyze and propose innovative solutions.
During her time at ISMMS, she conducted computational clinical research, utilizing machine learning techniques to predict pediatric vs. adult cancer outcomes and employing natural language processing to understand patient perspectives on various aspects of healthcare across social media platforms. Her in-depth research has resulted in numerous first-author publications and presentations at both national and international conferences.
Dr. Dominy's innovative spirit and commitment to women's health were recognized when she and a co-founder were awarded the Women's Impact Award from the Diversity Innovation Hub at Mount Sinai for their project, 3iuD. This groundbreaking project involves the development of a 3D-printed intrauterine contraceptive device that is custom-designed and fitted to an individual's uterus using transvaginal ultrasound technology. Dr. Dominy is currently in the process of building a team and developing a prototype for this revolutionary device.
Alongside her research endeavors, Dr. Dominy dedicated her time to volunteering at Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary neuromuscular clinic, which provides integrative, multi-specialty care for cerebral palsy patients and their families. She assisted providers clinically and facilitated the distribution and administration of research surveys to patients and their families.
Dr. Dominy’s ultimate goal is to become a pediatric cardiologist who combines large-data clinical research with collaborations with device companies in the cardiology space. Her experience working in the medical school admissions office at ISMMS has provided her with what top medical schools seek in applicants. As a creative problem solver, Dr. Dominy is well-equipped to work with students from all backgrounds and experiences, helping them craft compelling applications that highlight their stories.
Undergrad: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai


Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Graduate School: Rutgers University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
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.
Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Graduate School: Rutgers University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School


Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Graduate School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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.
Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Graduate School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology


Undergrad: Montclair State University
Medical School: Rutgers Medical School
Dr. Salcedo obtained his Bachelor’s in biology and chemistry from Montclair State University with a perfect 4.0 GPA. He was named Valedictorian with the highest major GPA in the College of Mathematics and Sciences. Dr. Salcedo earned his MD from Rutgers Medical School via the BS/MD program with a High Pass distinction.
He then trained in internal medicine at Pennsylvania State University in Hershey Park. Following this, Pablo worked at Veterans Affairs, where some of his research efforts included pulmonary rehabilitation in war veterans and understanding causal factors for hypotensive shock. He has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, including the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Critical Care Medicine, and Academic Medicine.
Dr. Salcedo has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his academic career, including being named a Bill and Melinda Gates Millennium Scholar, United Health Foundation Scholar through the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, National Elk Foundation Scholar (ranked 1st in NJ and 6th nationally out of 20,000 participants), and a Kentucky Fried Chicken Scholar (1 of 20 recipients nationwide).
Dr. Salcedo has been with the FDA's Division of Applied Regulatory Science for three years, where he designs, executes, and analyzes FDA-led clinical studies for topics such as ECG biomarkers and opioid safety. Before joining the FDA, he was a contractor for Booz Allen Hamilton for three years, serving as a research scientist for the National Evaluation of Health Technology (NEST), an initiative of CDRH's Medical Device Innovation Consortium, where he oversaw real-world evidence test cases for medical devices.
As a first-generation Hispanic American, Dr. Salcedo provides a specialized perspective on the medical school application process. He is passionate about accessibility and ensuring the admissions process is easy to navigate for every student he works with. He firmly believes in the power of hard work and determination, and thoroughly enjoys helping students from all backgrounds craft application materials that tell their stories.
As a coach, Dr. Salcedo’s greatest strengths are helping students prepare for interviews, building their confidence, improving their overall academic profiles, and writing stellar personal statements. He has assisted students in creating strong and unique essays for medical and dental school. Dr. Salcedo feels that having a disability and having been a non-traditional student enables him to be in tune with the needs and perspectives of diverse applicants. He also enjoys helping students navigate interviews by organizing elevator pitches, baseline responses, approaches to interview questions, and conducting mock interviews.
Undergrad: Montclair State University
Medical School: Rutgers Medical School


Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Medical School: Rutgers New Jersey Medical School
Prior to starting medical school, Dr. Ravikumar spent a gap year working on translational research at Weill Cornell, further solidifying her passion for medicine and research. Her research experience continued to grow during medical school, with several publications and presentations on topics in surgery. After medical school, she started her residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine.
Dr Ravikumar's commitment to mentoring and teaching is evident in her various roles. She has mentored several pre-med students, including those interested in pursuing the BS/MD programs, and has worked extensively with high school students interested in medicine through her school's Mini-Medical program. Additionally, she served as an academic coach for her peers, providing guidance and support in their academic pursuits.
As a member of the Student Interviewing Committee at NJMS, Dr. Ravikumar gained insider tips for the medical school application process. Her experience in this role, combined with her own journey through the TCNJ/NJMS 7-year BS/MD program, positions her well to guide aspiring medical students through the challenges of medical school admissions.
Dr. Ravikumar's approach to mentoring is characterized by her enthusiasm, empathy, and dedication to helping others achieve their goals. At Inspira, she aims to make the application process as seamless as possible, ensuring that each applicant's strengths are highlighted and that they feel confident in their individualized path to a career in medicine.
Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Medical School: Rutgers New Jersey Medical School


Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Dr. Menon’s higher education journey began at the University of Chicago, where he graduated with a BA and departmental honors in history, philosophy, and social science of science and medicine. During college, he served as Program Coordinator for STRIVE, an after-school tutoring program for adolescents with sickle cell disease. Before attending medical school, he earned his MS in bioethics from Harvard Medical School.
During his medical education, Dr. Menon served as a writing coach and peer tutor. Throughout medical school and residency, he regularly contributed to the Merck Medical Student Manual, spotlighting medical school life and current issues in medicine. He has also earned recognition for his academic achievements, including the American Society of Clinical Pathology's Gold Award and research grants from the Brian Werbel Memorial Fund and the American Heart Association. His written work is featured in prestigious journals such as Hektoen International, the Harvard Medical School Bioethics Journal, The Pathologist, JAMA Cardiology, and the Journal of Clinical Tuberculosis and Other Mycobacterial Diseases.
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dr. Menon has presented scientific work at major conferences, including the American Epilepsy Society, the American Society of Microbiology, and the Society of General Internal Medicine's annual meetings. His dedication to medical education earned him induction into the Feinberg Academy of Medical Educators Trainee section, where he contributes significantly to the training of first-year medical students.
As a counselor, Dr. Menon excels in providing comprehensive support to aspiring medical students and residents. His involvement with platforms like Inside the Match and MatchToPath allows him to share his expertise in personal statement development, resume building, and interview preparation. His methodical approach ensures that each student receives personalized guidance tailored to their specific needs and aspirations.
Dr. Menon brings a wealth of experience in mentoring and academic excellence, guiding aspiring students through the complex application process. His methodical mentorship style involves tailoring individualized plans based on each student’s goals and unique backgrounds, helping them develop compelling application packages.
Dr. Menon's commitment to mentoring and education, combined with his extensive experience in clinical pathology and medical research, positions him well to guide the next generation of doctors. His passion for helping others navigate the complexities of the application process ensures students are well-prepared for their future careers in medicine.
Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine


Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Originally from Ohio, Dr. Talbott graduated with honors from the University of Chicago with a degree in psychology and biology. Her path to medicine included serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Paraguay for two years, where she gained experience in community health outreach and public health.
Following her Peace Corps service, Dr. Talbott worked as a clinical research coordinator at the University of Washington, contributing to various projects in general and vascular surgery. This experience, combined with her international service, has given her over four years of domestic and international public health experience.
Dr. Talbott's passion for education and mentorship is evident in her role as an academic tutor for Mayo Clinic, where she led multiple lectures for medical board review courses and privately tutored students. To further her interests in service, advocacy, and education, she completed an MPH at Columbia University between her third and fourth years of medical school.
Dr. Talbott's interests include human trafficking awareness, medical education, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and global health. She is particularly interested in minimally invasive surgery within her chosen field of OB/GYN. Her language skills include ACTFL Advanced-High fluency certification in Spanish (oral and written), with over two years of working experience in Spanish-speaking environments.
As a first-generation medical student, Dr. Talbott brings a unique perspective to medical education and the application process. She has extensive experience mentoring pre-medical and medical students in various aspects of their careers, including research, academic writing, networking, and the medical school and residency application processes, including applying for scholarships. She enjoys helping students identify their passions and highlight their strengths to put together the best application package possible.
With her combination of academic excellence, global health experience, and commitment to advocacy and education, Dr. Jennifer Talbott is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the OB/GYN field and to continue her work in mentoring the next generation of medical professionals.
Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine


Undergrad: University of North Carolina
Medical School: University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Dr. Mabe's impressive academic achievements and commitment to helping aspiring medical students are evident through his educational background and mentoring experiences. Growing up in the mountains of northwestern North Carolina, he attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he earned a BS in biology with a minor in chemistry, graduating summa cum laude and with membership in Phi Kappa Phi.
Having completed his medical education at the UNC School of Medicine as a FIRST Scholar in just three years, Dr. Mabe is familiar with the challenges and opportunities faced by aspiring medical students. His experiences as a peer tutor and teaching assistant further add to his ability to guide students through the admissions process and help them achieve their dreams of becoming physicians.
Dr. Mabe has worked with many premedical students in varying capacities on their journey to medical school. He founded the Pre-Student Osteopathic Medical Association at UNC Charlotte and mentored pre-medical students at UNC Chapel Hill as a medical student. These experiences allowed him to "share the wealth" when it comes to schedule advising, personal statement writing, and interview preparation.
As an admissions consultant, Dr. Mabe excels in early candidacy building for pre-med students, end-to-end admissions counseling, and interview preparation. Additionally, he is skilled at empathizing with students and providing tailored guidance based on their individual needs and goals.
Undergrad: University of North Carolina
Medical School: University of North Carolina School of Medicine
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Undergrad: Northeastern University
Medical School: University of Utah School of 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.
Undergrad: Northeastern University
Medical School: University of Utah School of Medicine


Undergrad: University of Georgia
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University
Tom’s academic journey began at the University of Georgia Honors College, where he graduated summa cum laude with a major in biological science and minors in biology, biomedical physiology, cell biology, general business, and pharmaceutical science. His experience as a STEM peer tutor during this time helped him hone his teaching skills and deepen his understanding of the complexities of STEM subjects.
Tom's own academic achievements are a testament to his hard work and dedication. Building on this success, Tom has gone on to work with numerous students as an MCAT tutor, helping them prepare for and succeed on their own exams.
As a tutor, Tom excels in several areas of the MCAT, including the Bio/Biochem and Psych/Soc sections. His approach to tutoring is student-centered and entirely personalized to each unique student. He takes into account each student's learning style and tailors his tutoring to help them learn in ways that are comfortable, supportive, and effective. By doing so, he empowers students to tackle the challenges of the MCAT with confidence.
With his exceptional academic background, tutoring experience, and passion for helping others, Tom is well-positioned to guide aspiring medical students through the complexities of the MCAT prep process. His approach is supportive, insightful, and tailored to each student's needs, ensuring that they receive the guidance necessary to increase their MCAT scores.
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University


Undergrad: University of Michigan
Maggie is originally from Port Huron, Michigan, where she was a National Merit Scholar. She has combined her passion for science with an interest in healthcare disparities, as evidenced by her choice of minor. This interdisciplinary approach to her studies provides her with a specialized perspective on health and medicine.
Maggie's passion for education and her desire to help others accomplish their career goals drive her to tutor pre-med students. She knows that for many aspiring physicians, the MCAT is one of the biggest barriers to entry into medical school. She loves to help individuals who may struggle with standardized tests and test anxiety tackle this obstacle and pursue their goals.
As a tutor, Maggie goes beyond simply teaching content. She takes the time to get to know every student and understand their goals and passions. This personalized approach allows her to provide academic support, motivation, and encouragement throughout the challenging pre-medical journey. She approaches each session as a collaborative learning environment. She believes that tutoring is most effective when the student is an active participant; there is work that they need to put in both during their session and on their own time.
What sets Maggie apart as a tutor is her compassion for students and her flexibility. She understands that each student has a lot going on in their life, which may impact how much time and energy they can commit to their studying. As such, she is very flexible with students, always willing to adjust the plan based on their changing needs.
Undergrad: University of Michigan


Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Medical School: University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Waleed's MCAT tutoring experience was honed at NJIT, where he tutored General and Organic Chemistry for three years. This tutoring background has helped him refine his ability to explain complex concepts clearly and adapt his teaching style to individual needs. He has continued his commitment to tutoring at the Perelman School of Medicine and earned the Twenty-First Century Scholar Award.
Waleed is also a published researcher with his first work being done in his senior year of high school in association with the Waksman Foundation. At NJIT, he worked alongside Dr. Murugan at CIBM3. During his gap years, he worked at Bessman Lab and presented some of his work at a GI conference. Over the past summer, he was selected as one of FAER’s MSARF fellows and did anesthesia research at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Waleed's passion for tutoring stems from the shared sense of accomplishment of clearing misunderstandings and understanding new concepts. This positivity inspires him to continue tutoring and helping students achieve their academic goals. His greatest strength is his flexibility, which is reflected in his sessions.
With almost half of his life dedicated to tutoring, Waleed has developed a deep understanding of what makes tutoring effective. He began tutoring in middle school and continued throughout high school, undergrad, and medical school. He works together with students to construct an approach that has them feeling ready to tackle the MCAT with full force!
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Medical School: University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine


Undergrad: Drexel University
Medical School: Harvard Medical School
Ayush graduated summa cum laude from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and minors in Art History and Business Administration. At Drexel and Harvard Medical School, Ayush conducted a wide array of research initiatives, leading to various publications and academic conference presentations in molecular biology, ophthalmology, ENT, telemedicine, and AI. He also co-founded the New Jersey chapter of a COVID-19 response organization that fills gaps in healthcare infrastructure with healthcare student volunteers.
Ayush also served as a coordinator for the National Student Response Network, connecting over 300 returning healthcare student volunteers with their local NJ county public health departments, hospitals, and NGOs. Given these experiences, Ayush has a proven track record of success in helping a variety of applicants achieve high test scores and medical school admission. He is also passionate about mentoring applicants in crafting a cohesive and personal story to achieve their dreams of becoming a physician.
Undergrad: Drexel University
Medical School: Harvard Medical School


Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Keane conducted molecular toxicology research in the Allard Lab Group at UCLA, focusing on the impact of environmental toxicants on behavior in C. elegans (roundworms). Keane's commitment to making a positive impact also extends beyond the laboratory. As a clinical research associate at Ronald Reagan Hospital, he played an important role in improving the care of Code Stroke patients as a member of the Student Stroke Team. This hands-on experience in a clinical setting gave him insights into the healthcare field and the importance of delivering high-quality care to patients.
In addition to his academic and research pursuits, Keane served as a camp counselor for Camp Kesem, where he mentored children affected by a parent's cancer. This role allowed him to develop strong mentorship skills and a deep understanding of the importance of providing support and guidance to those in need.
After each MCAT tutoring session, Keane helps students take the next steps toward a higher score. With a deep understanding of MCAT challenges and pitfalls, Keane is committed to helping students find success and achieve their dreams of attending their desired medical schools.
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles


Undergrad: Stanford University
Medical School: University of Virginia School of Medicine
Kaile graduated from Stanford with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry (conferred with distinction). Their exceptional academic performance earned them the prestigious J. E. Wallace Sterling Award for Scholastic Achievement, an honor bestowed upon the top 25 graduating seniors in the School of Humanities and Sciences. They were also honored with the Certificate of Undergraduate Excellence Award by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Kaile's passion for teaching and mentoring is evident in their extensive tutoring experience. They have privately tutored college and high school students in general and organic chemistry, helping them grasp complex concepts and succeed in their coursework. They have also worked with the Hume Center for Writing and Speaking at Stanford, tutoring undergraduate and graduate students in essay and technical writing. Through these diverse tutoring experiences, Kaile has developed a versatile skill set and a keen ability to adapt their teaching style to meet the needs of students from various backgrounds and academic disciplines.
With over five years of tutoring experience, Kaile has honed their ability to break down complex subjects, identify areas for improvement, and create personalized study plans that optimize student success. They are committed to helping each student not only achieve their desired MCAT score but also develop a deep understanding of the material and build the confidence necessary to excel in their future medical studies.
Undergrad: Stanford University
Medical School: University of Virginia School of Medicine


Undergrad: Georgetown University
Medical School: University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine
Grace graduated summa cum laude from Georgetown University with a Bachelor’s degree in biology of global health and Spanish. She received a full-tuition merit scholarship to attend the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine.
While at Georgetown, she worked on research projects in breast cancer, evolutionary medicine, and health disparities in Washington, DC. Her exceptional efforts earned her publications in the Journal of Evolutionary Medicine and Public Health and the American Journal of Pathology, as well as recognition from both the Biology and Spanish departments as a top graduating senior.
She also served as a teaching assistant for the biology department and led a student organization focused on health and medical equity while volunteering as a medical interpreter at a local free clinic. At the University of Chicago, she mentored new and prospective students as an admissions advocacy ambassador and teaching assistant for anatomy.
As an MCAT tutor, Grace excels in the hard sciences portions of the test. She prides herself on her ability to explain difficult concepts and provide strategies to help students overcome challenges. Beyond her expertise in MCAT preparation, Grace has extensive experience supporting pre-med students throughout their journey to medical school. As a student interviewer for medical schools and an application counselor, she has a deep understanding of what admissions committees are looking for and can provide tailored advice to help students craft compelling applications and excel in their interviews.
Undergrad: Georgetown University
Medical School: University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine


Undergrad: University of Texas, Dallas
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Janvi earned a Bachelor of Science in health care administration and management from UT Dallas. It was during college that she developed a passion for mentoring and teaching. She has a diverse professional background, including volunteering at hospitals, leading medical clubs, doing research, and tutoring students across various subjects.
Janvi is passionate about the culture of continuous learning in healthcare and is eager to help students excel on the MCAT. With a love for learning, she mastered all her pre-medical coursework and self-studied for the MCAT, achieving success on her own terms. With extensive tutoring experience spanning middle school to college-level science courses, Janvi has worked with students of all ages and learning styles.
She is adept at developing tailored study plans that carefully assess students’ strengths and weaknesses. She provides personalized support, adjusting her strategies as needed to maximize each student’s MCAT scores. She is dedicated to helping students succeed by sharing her insights, tips, and personalized approaches to tackle the MCAT. Her goal is to empower students to achieve their best and approach the test with confidence.
Undergrad: University of Texas, Dallas
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center


Undergrad: Temple University
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Dhruv graduated from Temple University with a neuroscience major, a chemistry minor, and a certificate in linguistics. During college, Dhruv made significant contributions to platelet research, investigating the molecular basis for abnormal platelet activation in cardiovascular disease. His work has been published in academic journals, and he has undertaken scholarly projects in mathematical modeling, social determinants of health, and particle physics. Dhruv's commitment to research and scientific integrity earned him the prestigious Thermo Fisher Scientific Antibody Scholarship.
Dhruv's passion for scientific discovery and medical innovation is evident in his career goals. He aspires to be at the forefront of medical advancements while working to make quality healthcare accessible to all patient populations. His inquisitive nature and pragmatic approach drive him to find novel solutions to problems in biomedical research and healthcare.
Dhruv's approach to tutoring is personable, insightful, and focused on fostering both comprehension and confidence in aspiring medical students. He is committed to helping each student achieve their full potential and excel in their MCAT preparation. His tutoring style centers on reviewing high-yield content, crafting personalized study schedules, setting performance goals, and providing actionable test day strategies to maximize MCAT scores. Students who have worked with Dhruv increase their MCAT scores by an average of 15 points.
Outside of his academic and research pursuits, Dhruv has diverse interests, including motorsport, aerospace, travel, and watches. He enjoys rock climbing, biking, exploring local cuisine, and traveling to new destinations.
Undergrad: Temple University
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
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Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
Alex graduated from the New Jersey Institute of Technology with an impressive 3.99 GPA and a degree in biochemistry. He spent two years tutoring undergraduate general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry at the NJIT Chemistry Learning Center. During this time, he also worked as a medical scribe at the Jersey Shore University Medical Center. During the medical school application process, he secured 5 MD acceptance letters and multiple merit scholarships.
Alex's passion for tutoring stems from his belief that mastering a concept is best achieved when you can teach it to someone else. Teaching allows him to deepen his understanding and share his knowledge, and he is enthusiastic about helping others succeed with each tutoring session. His teaching philosophy focuses on building a strong understanding of fundamental concepts and constructing knowledge from the ground up. By identifying and targeting areas that will most significantly impact his students' performance, Alex ensures their study time is used efficiently.
One of Alex's greatest strengths as a tutor is his ability to concisely convey complex information and adapt to each student's unique learning style. His approach to MCAT preparation is holistic and comprehensive. His tutoring style emphasizes understanding systems—a framework that applies to almost any MCAT concept or question and is essential for success in medical school and beyond. He also emphasizes the importance of both intellectual preparation and physical and mental stamina. His strategy focuses on overall wellness, including exercise, diet, and sleep, to ensure sustainable progress and genuine learning. Alex believes that with a healthy attitude and an effective strategy, anyone can achieve top results.
Alex lays the groundwork for each session at the end of the previous one, with clear goals and expectations established for studying in the interim, with specific learning objectives identified in each meeting. Alex's sessions typically combine guided practice with direct instruction, and he is always willing to provide homework that can be reviewed together, ensuring continuous progress.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Windsor
Medical School: University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Nikola graduated with distinction from the University of Windsor, earning an honors degree in biological sciences and completing an undergraduate thesis in biomedical sciences. At the University of Windsor and the University of Ottawa Medical School, he engaged in impactful research across diverse fields, such as molecular biochemistry, physician health and wellness, and interventional cardiology. He also led the R&D portfolio at Enactus Windsor, spearheading innovative student-led projects, including the nationally recognized Mycolite presented at the 2023 National Enactus Presentations, just two years after its development.
Nikola also served as the Volunteer Coordinator for the Youth Advisory Council at a community hospital in Windsor, connecting thousands of high school students with mental health resources and initiatives throughout the city. His leadership extended to Jack.org, where he was Chapter President at the University of Windsor, empowering young leaders to innovate mental health initiatives nationally. Additionally, Nikola brings nearly a decade of tutoring experience across diverse subjects, including leading study groups, tutoring in science and chemistry at the college level, and providing personalized exam help in organic chemistry.
Nikola is dedicated to empowering applicants to reach their full potential and excel on the MCAT, paving the way for their aspirations to become physicians. His robust background in biology, biomedical sciences, and chemistry, coupled with his proven track record in academia, leadership, and mentoring, uniquely qualifies him as an exceptional MCAT tutor. Students Nikolas has coached have boosted their MCAT scores by an average of 10+ points.
Nikola’s expertise allows him to effectively guide students through challenging content while fostering efficient study habits and reducing exam-related stress. Additionally, his passion for mental health advocacy ensures a supportive and empathetic approach to helping students achieve their academic goals.
Undergrad: University of Windsor
Medical School: University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine


Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Anika earned a Bachelor’s in biochemistry from the University of Texas at Austin. She also holds three certificates in medical Spanish, business of healthcare, social inequality, health, and policy. She has extensive teaching experience spanning various fields, including providing piano lessons, teaching taekwondo, and serving as a teaching assistant for a biostatistics class.
Anika graduated as a distinguished college scholar for being in the top 4% of students in her area of study. In medical school, she is consistently in the top 10% of her class. At UT Southwestern, she pursued a dual degree as both an MD candidate and to earn an MPH. She was awarded the Hoffman Scholarship to cover her public health tuition and won the Erin Bain Jones Scholarship to contribute towards her medical education. She also earned the Presidential Volunteer Service Award during her first year as a medical student, demonstrating a strong commitment to service.
After achieving a top 1% MCAT score on her first attempt, Anika was inspired to help other students achieve similar success. She prioritizes efficient studying methods to empower students to master the MCAT swiftly and successfully. She embraces challenges and is committed to collaborating closely with students to guide them toward achievement.
Anika’s greatest strength as an MCAT tutor is her clear memory of the med school admissions process, so she knows what medical schools are looking for in candidates. She also strives to build a rapport with each student to learn about their personal lives and obligations, ensuring she provides them with a realistic study plan. She strongly believes that practice makes perfect, and does her best to ensure each student is fully prepared for test day.
Anika is passionate about tutoring because she understands how grueling and daunting the med school admissions cycle and MCAT prep process can be. She believes the world needs more compassionate and caring doctors. Her ultimate goal is to ensure that candidates can become licensed physicians despite the MCAT’s difficulty. She understands that the test can be overwhelming, and she takes pride in being a pillar of support who helps pre-meds achieve their dreams of attending medical school.
Through her diverse teaching background, Anika excels at adapting to different learning styles and creating customized lesson plans that cater to each student's strengths and weaknesses. Her expertise in chemistry, physics, biology, and biochemistry also equips her with effective strategies to support students across all exam sections.
Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
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Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine
With extensive research experience spanning prestigious institutions, including Baylor College of Medicine, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, and Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Justin deeply understands biological systems and their clinical applications to his MCAT instruction. His background in basic science research and clinical medicine allows him to bridge complex scientific concepts with their practical medical applications—a crucial skill for MCAT success.
Justin’s teaching experience is built on a strong foundation of mentorship and leadership. He has been a bench mentor at Duke University, guiding undergraduate students in laboratory techniques and data analysis. Aside from serving on Baylor’s Inquiry Committee, Justin also mentors pre-medical students through multiple organizations, including the American Physician Scientists Association and Rice University's American Physician Scientist Mentorship Program.
His passion for tutoring students stems from his own experiences of being surrounded by incredible mentors throughout his journey. He wants to return the favor to other students and finds seeing them grow and progress incredibly gratifying. As a tutor, Justin leverages his MD/PhD training to approach problems and content from two perspectives. He employs frequent repetition and drilling strategies, along with a slower, more methodical approach to understanding content. His approach emphasizes building a strong foundational understanding while developing the critical thinking skills necessary for success.
Justin's greatest strength as a tutor is his ability to keep tutoring plans simple. He centers his approach around one key principle: practice as much as possible. Encouraging students to practice problems consistently makes them much more prepared for whatever test day throws at them.
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine


Undergrad: Dartmouth College
During her undergraduate years, Grace worked part-time in an epidemiology lab at the Dartmouth Cancer Center, which sparked her interest in cancer research. Her academic achievements include citations for Academic Excellence in General Physics I and Literary Theory in French, the French Consulate Prize, and the Dartmouth Cancer Scholars Research Grant. While in college, Grace was involved in medical-related organizations like Dartmouth Cancer Scholars and the Nathan Smith Society—she also volunteered at the White River Junction VA Medical Center. Previously, Grace worked as a research assistant at the Geisel School of Medicine, contributing to cancer research and presenting at prestigious symposiums.
Grace’s passion for MCAT tutoring stems from her own journey toward medical school, which has shaped her deep understanding of the commitment and perseverance required to succeed on the exam. She finds fulfillment in helping students navigate not just the academic challenges of the MCAT, but also the emotional and mental obstacles that can arise during preparation. For Grace, the MCAT represents an important stepping stone in a student’s future medical career, and she is dedicated to helping them develop the knowledge and confidence needed to excel. Her past experiences help her relate to the pressures students face, and she enjoys providing them with the support and strategies they need to stay motivated and focused.
Grace’s success on the MCAT reflects her mastery of the material and her ability to develop effective study strategies. She aims to use her experience to help other students excel on the MCAT and beyond. She has a broad background in tutoring students of all ages and learning abilities. Having completed the medical school application process and the MCAT, Grace offers fresh, firsthand insight and advice to those navigating the same path.
What sets Grace apart as an MCAT tutor is her unique combination of academic excellence, medical research experience, and mentorship skills. She understands the challenges students face and tailors her approach to not only help them master the material but also to develop critical thinking and MCAT test-taking strategies. Her well-rounded perspective enhances her ability to guide students through complex content while connecting the theoretical knowledge to real-world medical applications.
Drawing from her tutoring experience, Grace’s approach is personalized and student-centered. She begins with a comprehensive intake session to understand each student’s academic background, goals, and previous test experiences. After every practice test, she conducts detailed reviews to help students learn from their mistakes and refine their study strategies. Grace’s dedication to personalized coaching, paired with her academic rigor, makes her an invaluable guide for future medical professionals.
Undergrad: Dartmouth College
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Undergrad: Stanford University
Medical School: University of California, San Diego School of Medicine
Temi is an experienced MCAT coach born and raised in Ibadan, Nigeria, who is passionate about mental health advocacy and medical education. He pursued his MD at the University of California, San Diego, as a Vice Chancellor’s Scholar for Inclusive Excellence in Medicine. His journey in medicine has been shaped by a deep commitment to underserved communities and a desire to bridge healthcare gaps in access and education.
Temi’s academic journey began at 14 when he immigrated to Omaha, Nebraska, to attend Mount Michael Benedictine School, an all-boys Catholic boarding school. As a child, he had long dreamed of America, but the reality of his journey was filled with challenges. Temi initially struggled with homesickness and cultural adjustment, but he found solace in his international peers and his growing passion for education.
His perseverance led him to excel academically, and he discovered his love for teaching while working as a K-12 tutor. He later continued his education at Stanford University, where he earned a BA in human biology, concentrating on global child and adolescent mental health. As an undergraduate, he was awarded prestigious scholarships, including the Gates Scholarship and The Thrive Scholarship, recognizing his academic excellence and leadership.
Temi’s research contributions span multiple fields, from mental health intervention development to racial disparities in the justice system. He was one of only ten scholars selected for the Columbia University Global Mental Health Research Fellowship, where he worked on pioneering studies to support Black women survivors of intimate partner violence.
Temi’s dedication to service extends beyond academics. He is also an accomplished poet, using his writing to explore themes of identity, resilience, and social justice. His poetry has served as a creative outlet and a means to connect with others, shedding light on the lived experiences of marginalized communities. As a Nigerian immigrant, he is passionate about addressing healthcare disparities in marginalized populations. His work with the Asido Foundation in Nigeria involved mental health advocacy, curriculum development, and community outreach. He also co-founded a mental healthcare space for African students at Stanford, ensuring ongoing support for their unique challenges.
As a tutor, Temi's greatest strengths are his ability to inspire confidence, break down complex concepts, and tailor strategies to each student’s strengths. He believes in fostering agency and executive functioning skills, ensuring students are prepared for success on the MCAT and throughout medical school. Whether through research, mentorship, or advocacy, Temi remains committed to empowering future healthcare professionals and improving mental health outcomes in underserved communities. He is excited to continue guiding students toward achieving their goals and making a meaningful impact in medicine.
Undergrad: Stanford University
Medical School: University of California, San Diego School of Medicine


Undergrad: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Erika works in clinical neurosurgery research and is also a certified EMT. AT MIT, she gained extensive research experience in a variety of different fields, conducting cognitive science, molecular biology, and medical device research. She also volunteered in a program where she tutored Boston-area immigrants in order to help them prepare for the US Citizenship Exam.
Students who work with Erika have earned higher MCAT scores and have developed their skills in connecting concepts. She personally excelled at the Biochemical and Biological Foundations of Living Systems section as well as the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section of the MCAT.
Being involved in a wide range of fields has allowed Erika to approach problems from different angles. She brings this expertise and unique perspective to her tutoring to help students learn concepts in new ways. Erika also has experience tutoring ESL, which has given her a good understanding of how to explain concepts from different angles to best help students.
Outside of academics, Erika was a four-year member of the MIT Women's Track and Field team. Being a student-athlete has given her a valuable perspective on balancing time-intensive commitments with academics, and this is a strength in her tutoring strategy. She is skilled at helping students design effective study strategies that will maximize their learning in the amount of study time that they have.
Undergrad: Massachusetts Institute of Technology


Undergrad: Concordia College
As an undergraduate, Bretton pursued a triple science major in neuroscience, chemistry, and biology. This diverse background has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to break down even the most complex MCAT topics into easily understandable concepts, making the test accessible to students from all backgrounds and levels of preparation.
In addition to his academic achievements, Bretton has made contributions to the scientific community. He has represented his college's research output to the state of Minnesota, proving his ability to communicate complex scientific ideas to a broad audience. Furthermore, Bretton was selected to participate in the prestigious Mayo Clinic's Mayo Innovative Scholars Program on behalf of Concordia, a testament to his exceptional abilities as a researcher and innovator.
Currently, Bretton works in a research laboratory, where he conducts groundbreaking studies in the fields of cancer and neuroscience. His hands-on experience in cutting-edge research allows him to provide his students with knowledge of the latest scientific developments and their potential applications to the MCAT. Alongside his research, Bretton is studying for a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, one of the top-ranked programs in the country.
Bretton recognizes that success on the MCAT requires not only a deep understanding of the content but also the development of effective test-taking strategies and the ability to manage stress and anxiety. By working closely with each student to identify their strengths and weaknesses, Bretton creates personalized study plans that maximize their performance on test day. His passion for science, commitment to education, and track record of success make him an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to excel on the MCAT and pursue a career in medicine.
Undergrad: Concordia College
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Undergrad: George Washington University
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
While in medical school, Dr. Aizman became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and a Health Services Scholarship Recipient. Before starting her residency, she honed her skills by completing a clinical research fellowship with the University of Pennsylvania's Dermatology Oncology Center. Additionally, she has presented her research findings at major national conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Drawing from her own experiences navigating the competitive world of medical education and residency applications, Dr. Aizman provides personalized guidance to help students achieve their goals. Her passion for empowering the next generation of medical professionals is evident in her volunteer work as an admissions counselor at the George Washington University School of Medicine, where she dedicated two years to assisting students through the interview process before serving as an interview coordinator at Johns Hopkins University.
Beyond her impressive academic and professional achievements, Dr. Aizman is known for her compassionate and personable nature. She understands the challenges and uncertainties that medical students face and goes above and beyond to provide the support and residency application guidance they need to succeed. Medical students she has worked with matched with residencies at the University of Michigan, the University of Virginia, and Thomas Jefferson University.
Dr. Aizman’s coaching style is structured, providing clear plans and step-by-step guidance, yet friendly, fostering a supportive environment. She is encouraging, helping students build confidence through positivity while remaining goal-oriented and prioritizing measurable outcomes and milestones. With a detail-oriented approach, she ensures every aspect of an application is flawless.
Undergrad: George Washington University
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
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Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine
Dr. Chen earned her BA in biology and anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis, graduating magna cum laude with a 3.91 GPA. During this time, she served as the WUSTL Pre-Med Society's President and a resident advisor.
Dr. Chen then attended Washington University School of Medicine on multiple merit-based scholarships, including the Waltke Memorial Scholarship, the Scholars in Medicine Academic Scholarship, and the Harrison’s Academic Scholarship.
After graduating from medical school, Dr. Chen went on to finish her internal medicine residency, serving as Chief Resident, and completed a gastroenterology fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis/Barnes Jewish Hospital, where she received the Thomas and Mary Eckert Fellowship Clinical Research Fund and was honored as a Fellow of the Year at the John Cochran Veterans Administration Medical Center. Dr. Chen now specializes in diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, focusing on colon cancer screening and prevention, including endoscopy and colonoscopy.
From an early start as a high-achieving student, Dr. Chen discovered her passion for mentorship by tutoring peers and leading student groups. Throughout her fellowship, she continued advising students on medical school and residency applications, drawing on her own successes.
As a former admissions committee member at Washington University in St. Louis, she offers invaluable insider insight into the admissions process. She is dedicated to helping applicants present their best selves in the competitive admissions process for medical school, residency, and beyond, tailoring her guidance to each individual. Dr. Chen finds great fulfillment in supporting students as they work toward their professional aspirations.
Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine


Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Dr. Donohue's medical education journey began outside of Boston, where she attended Vanderbilt University. There, she pursued a diverse academic path, majoring in neuroscience, Spanish, and biology. During her time at Vanderbilt, Dr. Donohue gained experience that shaped her future success. She served as a pre-med advisor, providing guidance and support to fellow students navigating the path to medical school. Additionally, she engaged in clinical research, graduating with several first-author publications, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. She also volunteered at various organizations, including St. Jude's fundraising, a local food bank, and as an ESL instructor.
Dr. Donohue's exceptional academic achievements and diverse experiences paved the way for her admission to the T.H. Chan School of Medicine, where she was part of the Population-Based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track, focusing on population health and healthcare disparities. At T.H. Chan, she received several recognitions for her achievements , including the Leadership Award for Distinguished Service and the Outstanding Accomplishment in the Longitudinal Capstone Scholarship and Discovery Course.
Dr. Donohue continued to excel, serving on the admissions committee and providing advice regarding the selection process. Dr. Donohue's community work also garnered recognition, as she was featured on local news channels for her efforts. During medical school, she also led advising groups and served as a medical school admission counselor, working with applicants one-on-one and in group settings. She was then accepted into her first-choice pediatric residency program.
Dr. Donohue thrived clinically at the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, where she received several awards to fund her research. She values meaningful patient connections and emphasizes the importance of enjoying life outside of medicine. She understands the complexities of navigating the path to becoming a doctor while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and she is committed to sharing her experiences and strategies with students.
With years of mentoring experience, Dr. Donohue has been guiding students since high school and continued through her undergraduate and medical school years. Now in residency, she provides self-empowerment and helps students lead their application cycles, offering guidance, advice, and edits while allowing them to take charge.
What sets Dr. Donohue apart as a consultant is her person-first focus. She believes that medical school is a unique experience that should fit personal needs and future desires, creating four years of great memories where one learns medicine and grows as a person. She prioritizes personal happiness in her life and with every student.
Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her detail-oriented approach and her ability to focus on both small details and big-picture thinking. She pays special attention to personal branding and how candidates present themselves in their applications, ensuring well-rounded care. With a strong focus on overall well-being, balance, and goal achievement, she takes an organized, hands-on approach that keeps students on track while fostering growth and confidence. Her ultimate goal is to guide students toward success—ensuring they gain admission to the program of their dreams.
Dr. Donohue approaches each counseling session with organization and focus, aiming to answer questions, alleviate anxieties, and organize students for a straightforward, task-based application process. Her passion for counseling stems from the support she received from countless mentors, networking calls, and advice throughout her journey. She feels indebted to them and is committed to giving back by helping guide the future of healthcare professionals.
Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
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Undergrad: California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Dr. Munoz graduated summa cum laude from California State University San Marcos with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry after being recruited to play softball for the university before attending Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Her impressive performance during the residency application process led to more than 20 interviews in her chosen specialty of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Ultimately, Dr. Munoz matched at a top 10 program in the country for this specialty, the University of Wisconsin, where she worked towards a fellowship in microsurgical reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Munoz's passion for advising and working with students stems from her own experiences and challenges throughout medical school and residency application processes. As the first in her family to graduate with a college degree, she overcame numerous obstacles in the preparation for and admission to medical school and residency, from which she learned immensely. This personal journey has fueled her desire to make the process more streamlined, straightforward, efficient, and successful for future students. She draws on her extensive training in communication, teaching, and leadership to guide students with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Munoz’s 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees, which she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals. She takes a flexible and student-centered approach, adapting quickly to each student’s needs and adjusting plans as necessary. Dr. Munoz fosters a friendly, approachable, and conversational atmosphere, ensuring students feel empowered throughout their journey. With a focus on positivity and patience, she builds students’ confidence by celebrating their progress and ensuring they fully understand the next steps.
Undergrad: California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine


Undergrad: University of California, Irvine
Medical School: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Graduate School: Northwestern University
Dr. Hasjim has been awarded the Gold Humanism Honor Society Award and the Golden Scalpel – Resident Teacher of the Year Award, honors given by medical students. Dr. Hasjim is excited to demystify the medical and residency admissions process and work with applicants from many walks of life.
Dr. Hasjim attended college and medical school at UC Irvine and earned a Master of Science in Clinical Investigation from Northwestern University. Throughout his own journey through medicine, he realized that navigating through a career path in medicine can be complex, and he is passionate about making the medical school admissions process as transparent as possible. His dedication and outstanding performance earned him prestigious accolades such as the Excellence in Research Honors and the Chancellor's Award of Distinction.
During his undergraduate years at UC Irvine, Bima developed a proven track record of academic productivity and service to the community. For his work in research, community service, and academic achievements, he was awarded Excellence in Research Honors and the Chancellor’s Award of Distinction—given to only 28 undergraduate students out of 8,600+ students in the graduating class. When Bima matriculated into medical school at UC Irvine, he found his calling in surgery and was awarded the Dr. J. Gordon Hatfield Department of Surgery Award and the Vincent P. Carroll, Jr. Award for Outstanding Research upon graduation.
With a diverse range of academic interests and a deep commitment to teaching and mentoring, Dr. Hasjim's ability to guide applicants in articulating their passion for healthcare and personal stories is one of his greatest strengths. His passion for helping students achieve their dream schools can help anyone who feels stuck or needs extra guidance.
Dr. Hasjim is enthusiastic about clarifying the intricacies of residency admissions and assisting applicants from various backgrounds in crafting compelling applications that showcase their qualities and experiences. His goal-oriented and process-focused mindset ensures that students prioritize both measurable outcomes and continuous growth. Combining analytical thinking with creative problem-solving, he tailors innovative strategies to each applicant. With a patient and efficient approach, he ensures students fully understand each step while making the most of their time. Overall, Dr. Hasjim’s dedication to mentorship and his understanding of the challenges faced by applicants make him an invaluable asset to those pursuing a career in medicine.
Undergrad: University of California, Irvine
Medical School: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Graduate School: Northwestern University
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Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Dr. Stone began his academic journey at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he graduated with a double major in biomedical sciences and pre-clinical health sciences. While at UCF, he was actively involved as an orientation leader, resident assistant, and biology tutor.
Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Stone received acceptances from several prestigious institutions but chose the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded the Dean’s Diversity Full Cost of Attendance Scholarship, covering the entire cost of attendance for four years of medical school. Upon graduation, Dr. Stone matched into a residency position at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, one of the nation’s top ophthalmology programs accepting only six residents per year.
Dr. Stone has an extensive research portfolio that includes studies on the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, advancements in diabetic retinopathy screening, and innovative approaches to addressing barriers in eye care. He has been published in multiple journals such as the Journal of Vascular Surgery, the Journal of Prehospital Emergency Care, and the Journal of Academic Ophthalmology, with multiple first-author manuscripts. His presentations at national conferences, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery, highlight his ability to translate complex topics into actionable insights.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Stone leverages his firsthand understanding of the challenges applicants face at every stage of the process. Drawing on his experience from both sides of the admissions table, he offers a personalized, compassionate approach. He excels at helping students identify their strengths, address vulnerabilities, and craft authentic narratives that resonate with admissions committees.
Above all, Dr. Stone is passionate about shaping the next generation of physicians. By offering empathetic guidance and rigorous preparation, he ensures that every applicant he mentors has the tools to excel in medicine and beyond.
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine


Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Graduate School: Rutgers University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
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.
Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Graduate School: Rutgers University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School


Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Graduate School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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.
Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Graduate School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology


Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Dr. Menon’s higher education journey began at the University of Chicago, where he graduated with a BA and departmental honors in history, philosophy, and social science of science and medicine. During college, he served as Program Coordinator for STRIVE, an after-school tutoring program for adolescents with sickle cell disease. Before attending medical school, he earned his MS in bioethics from Harvard Medical School.
During his medical education, Dr. Menon served as a writing coach and peer tutor. Throughout medical school and residency, he regularly contributed to the Merck Medical Student Manual, spotlighting medical school life and current issues in medicine. He has also earned recognition for his academic achievements, including the American Society of Clinical Pathology's Gold Award and research grants from the Brian Werbel Memorial Fund and the American Heart Association. His written work is featured in prestigious journals such as Hektoen International, the Harvard Medical School Bioethics Journal, The Pathologist, JAMA Cardiology, and the Journal of Clinical Tuberculosis and Other Mycobacterial Diseases.
In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dr. Menon has presented scientific work at major conferences, including the American Epilepsy Society, the American Society of Microbiology, and the Society of General Internal Medicine's annual meetings. His dedication to medical education earned him induction into the Feinberg Academy of Medical Educators Trainee section, where he contributes significantly to the training of first-year medical students.
As a counselor, Dr. Menon excels in providing comprehensive support to aspiring medical students and residents. His involvement with platforms like Inside the Match and MatchToPath allows him to share his expertise in personal statement development, resume building, and interview preparation. His methodical approach ensures that each student receives personalized guidance tailored to their specific needs and aspirations.
Dr. Menon brings a wealth of experience in mentoring and academic excellence, guiding aspiring students through the complex application process. His methodical mentorship style involves tailoring individualized plans based on each student’s goals and unique backgrounds, helping them develop compelling application packages.
Dr. Menon's commitment to mentoring and education, combined with his extensive experience in clinical pathology and medical research, positions him well to guide the next generation of doctors. His passion for helping others navigate the complexities of the application process ensures students are well-prepared for their future careers in medicine.
Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine


Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Originally from Ohio, Dr. Talbott graduated with honors from the University of Chicago with a degree in psychology and biology. Her path to medicine included serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Paraguay for two years, where she gained experience in community health outreach and public health.
Following her Peace Corps service, Dr. Talbott worked as a clinical research coordinator at the University of Washington, contributing to various projects in general and vascular surgery. This experience, combined with her international service, has given her over four years of domestic and international public health experience.
Dr. Talbott's passion for education and mentorship is evident in her role as an academic tutor for Mayo Clinic, where she led multiple lectures for medical board review courses and privately tutored students. To further her interests in service, advocacy, and education, she completed an MPH at Columbia University between her third and fourth years of medical school.
Dr. Talbott's interests include human trafficking awareness, medical education, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and global health. She is particularly interested in minimally invasive surgery within her chosen field of OB/GYN. Her language skills include ACTFL Advanced-High fluency certification in Spanish (oral and written), with over two years of working experience in Spanish-speaking environments.
As a first-generation medical student, Dr. Talbott brings a unique perspective to medical education and the application process. She has extensive experience mentoring pre-medical and medical students in various aspects of their careers, including research, academic writing, networking, and the medical school and residency application processes, including applying for scholarships. She enjoys helping students identify their passions and highlight their strengths to put together the best application package possible.
With her combination of academic excellence, global health experience, and commitment to advocacy and education, Dr. Jennifer Talbott is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the OB/GYN field and to continue her work in mentoring the next generation of medical professionals.
Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine


Undergrad: Old Dominion University
PA School: Eastern Virginia Medical School Physician Assistant Program
A proud graduate of Old Dominion University, Deniece graduated with a BS in medical technology with a minor in fashion merchandising. She spent five years working as a certified clinical laboratory scientist specializing in microbiology, building a strong foundation in diagnostics, precision, and patient safety. Her scientific rigor and natural ability to connect with people led her to earn an MPA at EVMS.
Currently practicing in multiple care settings across the U.S., Deniece brings real-world insight and energy to her role as an admissions coach, offering students clarity, connection, and strategy through every stage of the PA school application process. Deniece’s passion for coaching stems from her own journey into the profession, where mentorship made all the difference. Now, she’s paying it forward—helping the next generation of PAs walk boldly into their calling.
Deniece is deeply invested in shaping the future of medicine. A dedicated mentor and role model, she has supported countless aspiring and current PA students, many of whom have completed their programs. She has served on the EVMS admissions committee, led mock interviews, coached personal statement development, and spearheaded outreach to local HBCUs to raise awareness of the PA profession and expand the pipeline of underrepresented providers.
Deniece believes that representation isn’t just a talking point—it’s a mission. She believes in opening doors and holding them wide for others. Her mentorship empowers students from all backgrounds to navigate their path toward healthcare leadership with clarity and confidence.
Drawing on her experience as a practicing PA, Deniece guides pre-PA students through every stage of the application process. With a sharp eye for what makes a candidate stand out, she helps students craft competitive, authentic, and strategic applications.
Known for her warm, supportive approach, Deniece builds strong, personalized connections with every student, creating a coaching experience that’s both encouraging and results-driven. She’ll even make sure each student is the best-dressed at their interview.
She has successfully mentored many applicants, including non-traditional students, career changers, re-applicants, and gap year students, equipping each with tailored tools and insights to elevate their candidacy. Her clinical background, mentorship mindset, and deep understanding of the PA admissions process make her a trusted and invaluable coach for future PAs.
Undergrad: Old Dominion University
PA School: Eastern Virginia Medical School Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: Lafayette College
PA School: Marist College’s Physician Assistant Studies Program
Athena’s journey began at Lafayette College, where she completed her undergraduate studies before advancing to the Physician Assistant Studies program at Marist College. During her time as a PA student, Athena not only excelled academically but also demonstrated strong leadership skills. She actively engaged with prospective students, conducting tours of the PA facilities and collaborating with her peers and faculty to influence admission decisions, demonstrating her dedication to the field and her commitment to helping others.
Athena's passion for medicine and care extends far beyond the boundaries of her professional life. She has dedicated her time and expertise to building medical infrastructure in Peru and participating in medical missions in Costa Rica during her school breaks. After graduating, Athena continued to give back to her community by volunteering on the admissions team of her PA program, where she helped conduct interviews and grade practical exams. Her exceptional contributions were recognized with an induction into the prestigious Alpha Phi Honors Society.
Throughout her professional journey, Athena has gained a diverse range of experiences that have enriched her understanding of various fields of medicine and the challenges faced by patients. She began her career at the renowned Yale Neonatal Intensive Care Unit before moving to the West Coast to practice orthopedics. Later, she returned to the East Coast to specialize in behavioral medicine. Today, she works as a Physician Assistant for the Center for Emotional Health.
As a counselor, Athena draws upon her extensive knowledge and experience to provide expert guidance to aspiring physician assistants. She understands the stress and pressure that comes with applying to PA school and offers her perspective on what admissions teams look for in future students. Athena takes a personalized approach, dedicating time to truly understanding each individual's aspirations and working diligently to help them achieve their PA goals.
Undergrad: Lafayette College
PA School: Marist College’s Physician Assistant Studies Program


Undergrad: South Dakota State University
PA School: Bethel University Physician Assistant Program
Jewels’ higher education journey began at Dakota State University, where she spent three years as a human anatomy tutor and two years as an undergraduate research assistant. She graduated with a BS in human biology with a 4.0 GPA. Her years of mentoring, tutoring, and admissions experience position her as a knowledgeable guide for PA applicants.
At the core of Jewels' mentoring philosophy is a genuine desire to empower the next generation of physician assistants. She recognizes that the journey to becoming a PA can be challenging, and she is committed to breaking down complex concepts into manageable, bite-sized pieces. By making even the most difficult topics accessible and engaging, Jewels helps her students build a strong foundation of knowledge and confidence.
One of Jewels’ greatest strengths as a mentor is her ability to listen deeply and forge meaningful connections with her students. She understands the fears, challenges, and aspirations that come with pursuing a career in healthcare, and she approaches each student with empathy, compassion, and unwavering support. Jewels tailors her approach to meet each student’s unique needs, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and guided every step of the way.
Undergrad: South Dakota State University
PA School: Bethel University Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: University of Georgia
Graduate School: Emory Rollins School of Public Health
PA School: Emory University Physician Assistant Program
Taylor's educational journey began at the University of Georgia, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in education in athletic training. After graduation, she gained valuable experience as a certified athletic trainer and faculty member for a sports physical therapy and athletic training residency program.
Building on this foundation, Taylor pursued a dual Master's degree at Emory University, graduating with the Highest Honors from both the physician assistant program and the Rollins School of Public Health. Her outstanding achievements led to her induction into honorary societies at both schools—Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health at Rollins, and Pi Alpha National Honor Society for Physician Assistants through her PA program.
In her current role at Emory Healthcare, Taylor is the sole advanced practice provider in transplant infectious diseases, managing a complex inpatient consultation service. This position allows her to apply her expertise in infectious disease and transplant medicine while working with a diverse range of patients and healthcare professionals.
Taylor's passion extends beyond clinical practice to education and mentorship. As an appointed clinical education faculty member of the Emory University PA program, she focuses on improving learners' clinical experiences, deepening clinician longevity in mentorship and preceptorship, and advocating for APPs' joint pursuit of clinical and non-clinical roles. This commitment reflects her holistic approach to healthcare and her desire to expand the impact of PAs in various sectors of the medical field.
Her educational approach emphasizes student mentorship, interprofessional education, collaborative practice, and effective knowledge acquisition and assessment for adult learners. Taylor regularly precepts and mentors PA students, providing helpful tips for the admissions process and the qualities sought by top programs.
Taylor is committed to guiding prospective students through the complex application process, offering quality mentorship that helps each student leverage their personality and experiences. Her firsthand knowledge of the PA profession and academic path enables her to set students up for success.
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Graduate School: Emory Rollins School of Public Health
PA School: Emory University Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: University of Winnipeg
Graduate School: University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
As a Full Professor of Pharmacology, Shaleen leverages her wealth of expertise to mentor future healthcare professionals. She holds a PhD in microbiology and immunology from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University on a full scholarship. She serves as the Pharmacology Course Director for physician assistants, teaching infectious disease pharmacology to students across various disciplines, including medical, physician assistant, dental, optometry, veterinary, and biomedical sciences students.
Shaleen’s contributions to the field extend beyond teaching and mentoring. She has presented her research at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. Her research focuses on cancer cell metabolomics and mechanisms of microbial latency. Her dual focus on research and education ensures that students receive a comprehensive and informed perspective on the healthcare field.
Shaleen’s passion for mentoring is rooted in her extensive experience on Midwestern University’s medical and PA admissions committees. Her extensive involvement provides her with expert insights into what makes a successful applicant, helping students navigate the complexities of medical and physician assistant applications.
As a mentor, Shaleen excels in sharing her knowledge and experiences with aspiring healthcare professionals. Her guidance helps students build confidence and develop strong applications and interview skills. She is motivated by students' "light bulb" moments and supports them throughout their educational journeys. She actively involves students in her research laboratory, focusing on cancer cell metabolomics and mechanisms of microbial latency. Many students have successfully continued to graduate healthcare programs, benefiting from her expertise and support.
As an admissions coach, Shaleen draws upon her extensive admissions experience to help students develop the most impactful application that represents their personal journeys, even if pitfalls exist along the way. Shaleen has used her experience in admissions to help students navigate the process of PA applications and interviews. From her experience, a successful post-graduate candidate is informed, prepared, and confident—she helps students achieve this through her mentorship.
Undergrad: University of Winnipeg
Graduate School: University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences


Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
PA School: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Rachel's educational journey began with an associate degree in surgical technology and sterile processing, which sparked her interest in the physician assistant career. She went on to earn her Bachelor's degree from Grand Valley State University while working full-time as a surgical technologist. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Physician Associate Program, where she distinguished herself as a leader and scholar.
During her time as a PA student, Rachel held several notable positions, including class secretary and member of the A. William Horsley Physician Assistant Student Society. The PA program faculty also selected her to sit on the education committee. Additionally, she was awarded the Thomas R. Godkins scholarship for academic excellence and volunteerism, as well as the Student Health Policy Fellowship by the Physician Assistant Education Association.
With her vast experience in the CASPA application process and timeline, personal statement review, and overall preparation for PA school and beyond, Rachel is uniquely qualified to help students navigate the challenging path to becoming a physician assistant. Additionally, her admissions experience interviewing and ranking prospective PA students gives her inside information into what admissions committees are looking for in successful candidates.
As a coach, Rachel's greatest strength is her extensive experience guiding dozens of pre-PA applicants through the complex application process. She has a large following of pre-PA students who have shadowed her and benefited from her support. As a registered mentor for PA students for the National Society of Black Physician Assistants, Rachel is dedicated to helping aspiring PAs from diverse backgrounds achieve their goals. She also enjoys precepting PA students and lecturing, sharing her knowledge and expertise with the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
PA School: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
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Undergrad: Georgia Gwinnett College
PA School: Morehouse School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program
Thelisha graduated with a Bachelor's degree in biology from Georgia Gwinnett College before attending the Morehouse School of Medicine, where she graduated with honors with a Master's of Science in physician assistant studies. As a member of the inaugural cohort, she had the esteemed privilege of serving on the Morehouse admissions committee, mentoring PA students, interviewing applicants, and evaluating their applications. She also participated in several community awareness events and served as a mentor for PA students facing academic challenges. She was also a recipient of the Friends of Valerie Montgomery Rice Presidential Scholarship and the Physician Assistant Growth Award.
In her role at Wellstar Health System, Thelisha trains new advanced practice providers (APPs) and collaborates with leadership to implement new policies. She also continues to mentor pre-PA students and current PA students, precepting them and providing them with shadowing opportunities. Before her current role, she worked at Georgia Cancer Specialist, affiliated with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, for 20+ years as a pharmacy technician, clinical guide analyst, and other roles.
Thelisha is committed to coaching students as they navigate the PA school application process. She aims to provide effective strategies, assist in gaining relevant healthcare experience, and emphasize students’ talents and strengths in their applications. Her mentoring philosophy centers on open communication; she engages with students to understand their experiences, personalities, and goals to tailor personalized plans for success.
As a coach, Thelisha’s greatest strength lies in her personal experience overcoming challenges, which she draws upon to provide valuable insights and strategies to strengthen student candidacy. As a double-minority and first-generation medical professional, she is dedicated to helping students succeed in pursuing their dreams of becoming PAs, offering unwavering support throughout the entire admissions process.
Undergrad: Georgia Gwinnett College
PA School: Morehouse School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: Florida State University
PA School: South College Physician Assistant Program
Kylie's academic journey led her to Florida State University, where she majored in family and child sciences with a minor in biology and chemistry. Before PA school, Kylie gained valuable healthcare experience working as a medical assistant in dermatology, further solidifying her commitment to patient care.
She pursued PA studies at South College. Her commitment to the program and her peers led to her selection as one of five students to represent South College at the Annual Curriculum Review for two consecutive years. This panel reviewed and evaluated the program's curriculum to determine its quality and effectiveness, providing Kylie with valuable insights into PA education and program development. Kylie also dedicated her free time to mentoring pre-PA students from her sorority, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help guide them on their path to becoming physician assistants.
As a PA admissions specialist, Kylie brings a deep understanding of the skills and qualities highly valued by admissions committees. Her experience in facilitating interviews at her PA program has given her expert insights into the admissions process, which she now uses to help students make their applications shine. Students Kylie has coached have been accepted to PA programs at South College, Nova Southeastern University, Hofstra University, Florida State University, and others.
Kylie's approach to admissions consulting is characterized by her hardworking nature, dedication, and genuine excitement to work with each student. She is eager to help students achieve their dreams of becoming physician assistants, leveraging her experiences and insights to ensure each applicant's strengths and potential are effectively communicated throughout the application process.
Undergrad: Florida State University
PA School: South College Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: Fairfield University
PA Program: Yale School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program
Jay was awarded a merit scholarship at Fairfield to pursue a BS in molecular biology, and the Yale Club of New Haven Graduate Scholarship for PA school. He has contributed to clinical research both during undergrad and PA school, with work published in microPublication Biology and Yale University Library’s digital platform for scholarly publishing, EliScholar. Now a PA, Jay primarily encounters patients facing heart failure, heart attacks, and heart transplants.
As a coach, his dedication to healthcare is matched by a passion for mentorship, particularly working with aspiring physician assistants. He has successfully guided students to programs at institutions like Yale University, CUNY, and Sacred Heart University.
Jay understands the unique challenges students face and brings both empathy and insight to every conversation. He is committed to helping future PAs build competitive applications and take confident steps toward their goals.
Undergrad: Fairfield University
PA Program: Yale School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program
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Undergrad: University of Missouri-Kansas City
PA School: Saint Louis University Physician Assistant Program
Before becoming a PA, Stephen worked as a paramedic and Flight Paramedic (FP-C) for six years, gaining valuable experience in emergency medicine and patient care. Throughout his career, he has served as an Adjunct and Lead instructor for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic programs and has taught Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) courses to a wide range of students, from laypeople to physicians.
Currently, Stephen works in the intensive care unit at BJC-Missouri Baptist Medical Center in Saint Louis, Missouri. His primary responsibilities include responding to rapid responses and Code Blues, assessing and treating critically ill patients, and performing various vascular access procedures such as peripheral IV, temporary dialysis catheter, central venous catheter, and arterial line placement. As a PA, he continues to share his knowledge by giving multiple lectures to SLU PA students on topics in pulmonology and endocrinology.
As a coach, Stephen's greatest strength is his extensive experience in education and his dedication to helping students succeed. Stephen's passion for the PA profession and his commitment to assisting students in navigating the complex application process make his guidance invaluable for aspiring PAs. He takes a personalized approach to every student’s needs and is well-equipped to guide students through every step of their journey toward becoming a PA.
Undergrad: University of Missouri-Kansas City
PA School: Saint Louis University Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: University of South Florida
PA School: University of South Florida Physician Assistant Program
Following college, Savannah worked as a patient care technician at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where she received the Technician of Excellence Award for her exceptional work with renal, diabetic, and wound care patients. This experience, combined with her academic achievements, laid a strong foundation for her PA career.
Savannah has been actively mentoring pre-PA students for years, helping them prepare for the application process and PA school life. Her passion for mentorship led her to join Plexus, an association at the University of Southern Florida that pairs undergraduate students with current graduate students. While a PA student, she served on the Plexus Leadership Board as a Module Coordinator, responsible for editing and updating the modules used by mentors. She worked one-on-one with pre-PA students to discuss the specifics of PA school and provide advice on curating competitive applications.
Savannah excels in providing writing assistance for personal statements and essays for both primary and secondary applications. Her interview preparation style includes providing resources, prompts, and conducting mock interviews with detailed feedback. She strives to make students feel comfortable and confident while challenging them to ensure they are thoroughly prepared.
Savannah is excited to work with aspiring PA students, help them navigate the application process, build competitive applications, and ultimately achieve their goal of becoming certified physician assistants. Her approach is characterized by empathy, practical advice, and a genuine desire to see the success of each student. She finds great reward in watching students begin their journey toward a fulfilling PA career.
Undergrad: University of South Florida
PA School: University of South Florida Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
PA School: Carroll University Physician Assistant Program
Following a gap year to gain experience, Eva pursued her PA studies at Carroll University. Upon graduation, Eva initially worked in internal medicine before transitioning to an urgent care setting, where she provided hands-on care with enthusiasm. Her primary passion lies in assisting physician assistant candidates in achieving their dreams, breaking down daunting tasks into manageable pieces, and helping applicants refine their applications.
With years of formal consulting and mentoring experience, Eva has developed a unique approach to counseling. She prides herself on her ability to fully individualize her expertise for each student, adapting her style based on their needs—whether they require motivation and deadlines or a more laid-back approach. Her flexible schedule allows her to work at times that best suit each student’s needs.
Eva's greatest strengths as a consultant include her ability to connect deeply with people and her meticulous attention to detail. She excels at making students comfortable sharing their experiences and stories, which she considers vital in creating strong applications. Her comprehensive knowledge of the medical field, combined with her energetic and enthusiastic approach, allows her to offer effective and tailored advice.
Particularly passionate about crafting standout personal statements, Eva helps applicants highlight their strengths and experiences. She enjoys getting to know candidates personally and assisting them in applying to their dream schools. Eva's experience with the PA application process, coupled with her commitment to staying informed about the latest changes, enables her to provide up-to-date and relevant guidance to students.
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
PA School: Carroll University Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: University of Miami
PA School: Weill Cornell School of Medical Sciences Physician Assistant Program
Lynley's academic journey began with a major in communications at the University of Miami, where she developed valuable writing skills. However, her passion for nutrition and wellness led her to switch majors to exercise physiology and minor in advertising and public relations. Her fascination with physiology coursework inspired her to pursue a healthcare career.
After shadowing numerous medical professionals, Lynley discovered the physician assistant profession and knew it was the perfect fit for her. Before attending PA school, she gained extensive experience as an orthopedic patient care technician at NorthShore University Health System and worked on the COVID-19 units throughout the pandemic. Additionally, she worked as a plastic surgery medical assistant at the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, where she developed a love for surgery. At Mount Sinai Health System, Lynley applies her knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional patient care.
Lynley’s passion for counseling stems from her own experience of feeling that there weren't enough resources available when she applied to PA school. She is dedicated to providing applicants with the guidance and resources she wishes she had.
What sets Lynley apart as a consultant is her background in communications, which gives her confidence in her writing and editing skills for student essays—her ability to craft compelling narratives is a key asset for applicants. Another of her greatest strengths is her familiarity with and proficiency in helping applicants prepare for various interview styles. She uses these skills and personal experiences to help students write masterful essays, ace their interviews, and get accepted to their top PA programs.
In her counseling sessions, Lynley reviews any questions or updates from the prior meeting, sets a goal for the session, and plans for the next steps. Her structured approach ensures that students remain focused and make steady progress toward their application goals, ultimately leading to PA school success.
Undergrad: University of Miami
PA School: Weill Cornell School of Medical Sciences Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: Franklin Pierce University
PA School: Marietta College
Before PA school, Andrea graduated summa cum laude with a BA in biology from Franklin Pierce University while playing college ice hockey. During her gap year, she was the Hiring Manager for ScribeAmerica for seven varying medical specialties and managed and mentored 45 employees, most of whom were pre-med or pre-PA. As a pediatric neurosurgery PA transitioning to urology PA, she held several leadership roles in surgical safety research and child advocacy.
Andrea graduated as valedictorian from the Marietta College Physician Assistant program. During her time there, she was a member of the student government and presented Grand Rounds at various clinical rotations. She was also responsible for interviewing and providing tours to applicants.
As a coach, Andrea is a firm believer that personal statements are the heart of an application. She is a creative writer in her free time and has seen firsthand how personal statements are the heart of an application when there are thousands of applications to review. She prides herself on her ability to help students craft excellent personal statements to make their applications stand out amongst the crowd. She also excels at helping students develop and strengthen their interview skills to ensure they make a lasting impression on their interviewers.
Undergrad: Franklin Pierce University
PA School: Marietta College


Undergrad: University of West Georgia
PA School: Christian Brothers University Physician Assistant Studies Program
Christina began her PA journey at the University of West Georgia, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in biology/biological sciences. Shortly after, she matriculated to the Christian Brothers University PA program, building on the foundation she laid in undergrad.
Her involvement in the admissions process extended to engaging in open dialogues with candidates, providing them with background knowledge about the program, and inquiring about their motivations for pursuing a PA career. This experience further improved her understanding of the admissions process from an institutional perspective.
Christina’s passion for counseling stems from her own experience applying to PA school, where she found that the answers she was looking for were nowhere to be found. This experience has driven her to provide the support and guidance she once sought to other aspiring PAs.
As a consultant, Christina brings a combination of compassion and eagerness to her work. She treats every student’s application as if it were her own, ensuring they receive personalized attention and support. Her greatest strength as a consultant is her experience as an admissions committee participant, which provides her with insider knowledge of what schools and interviewers look for in prospective students.
Christina's mentoring style is characterized by her outgoing personality, energy, and encouraging attitude. She understands that the application process can be stressful and is always willing to discuss the daily worries and challenges that come with applying to PA school. In her counseling sessions, Christina approaches each student with a gentle icebreaker, followed by a discussion of the schedule and goals for their next meeting. She emphasizes practical advice combined with emotional support, ensuring that students feel supported and confident throughout the entire application process.
Undergrad: University of West Georgia
PA School: Christian Brothers University Physician Assistant Studies Program


Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
PA School: Stony Brook University Physician Assistant Program
Gianna grew up in Buffalo, New York, and attended the University of Pittsburgh for her undergraduate education. She initially studied biology undeclared before declaring a major in rehabilitation science with an emphasis on PA school-relevant coursework such as anatomy with a full cadaver lab, physiology with a lab, and pharmacology.
During her time at the University of Pittsburgh, she completed a certificate in the Conceptual Foundations of Medicine with related areas in biology and chemistry. Her academic achievements were recognized through multiple honorary memberships and awards at the exclusive University of Pittsburgh Honors Convocation for her distinguished academic performance and leadership experience.
Gianna's healthcare experience is diverse and extensive. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and home health aide, gaining hands-on experience in patient care. Additionally, she conducted her own field experience internship at UPMC and volunteered as a clinical research assistant, MDA camp counselor, and twice-weekly hospital volunteer at the UPMC HELP Program. Her major GPA of 3.98 further highlights her academic excellence.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Gianna applied to several PA programs and was offered interviews at the majority of them. She accepted an offer at Stony Brook University, finishing her education in 24 months with a 3.87 GPA. The majority of her clinical rotation experience was through the New York City Health and Hospital system, with a portion completed in Buffalo, New York.
Gianna is currently considering furthering her education with a Doctorate of Physician Assistant Studies degree. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, baking, playing with her dog, and working on her art career. Her passion for art is evident in her disciplined ballet dancing background and her previous role as a ballet teacher prior to starting PA school.
As a mentor, Gianna brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help aspiring physician assistants navigate the application process. Her timeliness, organizational skills, and step-by-step approach provide a solid foundation for each student’s experiences. However, it is her confidence in each student that goes the furthest. Gianna is excited to be part of each student’s journey through their admissions process, ensuring they present their best selves and achieve their dreams of becoming fellow physician assistants.
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
PA School: Stony Brook University Physician Assistant Program


Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Veterinary School: University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Dr. Poulsen has held key academic and leadership roles, including assistant professor at Oregon State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and associate clinical professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His work at WVDL centers on infectious disease diagnostics and international trade testing for cattle and bovine germplasm.
He is deeply involved in the broader veterinary community as the former President of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD), and is the Co-Chair of the AAVLD government relations committee. He is also the Chair of the Board of Directors for the International Council of Veterinary Assessment (ICVA), which oversees the North American Veterinary Licensure Examination (NAVLE), and is Wisconsin’s delegate to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) House of Delegates.
Dr. Poulsen has reviewed hundreds of applications while serving on admissions committees at the Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine and the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. He has mentored many students who have gone on to attend leading veterinary schools such as Cornell, Purdue, Iowa State, NC State, Michigan State, Oregon State, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Poulsen’s approach to admissions consulting is structured yet flexible, ensuring students can follow step-by-step processes while allowing for flexibility.
Dr. Poulsen’s research on zoonotic and infectious diseases is widely recognized and has been featured in Scientific American, Vanity Fair, NPR, CBS 60 Minutes, the Associated Press, and The New York Times. Dr. Poulsen is actively engaged in service-related projects across the United States, South America, Asia, and Africa, focusing on infectious and zoonotic diseases as well as export market development.
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Veterinary School: University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: University of Wisconsin-Madison


Undergrad: University of Missouri
Veterinary School: University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Garcia's journey began at a young age when she declared her aspiration to become a veterinarian to her first-grade class. She attended the University of Missouri, graduating with a BS in animal sciences and a minor in captive wild animal management before pursuing a DVM. Demonstrating her deep commitment to her alma mater, she continued her education at the University of Missouri Veterinary School, where she honed her skills and knowledge in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Garcia has worked at the Animal Protective Association of Missouri Adoption Center as Director of Veterinary Services. She has also worked as an associate veterinarian at Arch Animal Hospital and the Jones Animal Health Clinic.
Throughout her career, Dr. Garcia has gained extensive experience in various veterinary settings, including walk-in practices, small animal practices, and shelter medicine. One of her greatest strengths is her approachability and transparency. She also has a knack for writing and precision.
Dr. Garcia's approach to veterinary medicine is characterized by her love for continuous learning, commitment to teaching others, and ability to find joy in her work. Whether it's giving advice, words of encouragement, editing essays, or writing letters of recommendation, she’s guided numerous students toward vet school success.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Garcia draws upon her extensive hands-on experience and passion for the field to guide prospective veterinarians in their educational journey, helping them navigate the challenges and opportunities of pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. What sets her apart as a consultant is that she embraces each student’s identity apart from being a "vet school hopeful." She is passionate about getting to know each student and making their application shine.
Undergrad: University of Missouri
Veterinary School: University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: City University of New YorkHunter College
Veterinary School: Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Dr. Pires' graduated from CUNY Hunter College with degrees in studio art and biochemistry. Through these studies, she discovered her passion for pre-veterinary medicine, which was further fueled by her experiences in research, lab animal care, and small animal general practice. These accomplishments earned her the NIH MBRS-RISE Program Scholarship and several departmental research awards. They also sparked her enthusiasm for advancing biomedical research to benefit both human and animal health, as well as advocating for the well-being of animals that are vital for medical progress.
Dr. Pires enrolled in a combined DVM and PhD program at Colorado State University. Her PhD focused on cell and molecular biology with an emphasis on cancer research. Dr. Pires graduated from veterinary school, receiving the Bob Rosenthal Senior Student Award for her outstanding contributions to clinical oncology. She also received multiple Young Investigator Awards and conference travel awards while completing her PhD training. Her dual DVM/PhD training has equipped her with a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of human and animal health, as well as the critical role that veterinarians play in advancing biomedical research.
After completing her veterinary education, Dr. Pires completed a one-year University of Colorado Anschutz Faculty Fellowship in Lab Animal Medicine, further honing her skills and expertise in this specialized field. Currently, she works as a lab animal veterinarian in the pharmaceutical industry, where she applies her knowledge to ensure the welfare of animals involved in research while contributing to the development of life-saving treatments.
Dr. Pires’ approach to veterinary medicine is characterized by her drive for continuous learning, commitment to teaching, and ability to find fulfillment in her work. She is passionate about helping students navigate the complex admissions process and has a proven track record of guiding them toward achieving their goals. Her experience serving on Colorado State University’s admissions committee for five years gives her insider information into the qualities and characteristics that successful veterinary school applicants possess. Students Dr. Pires has coached have been accepted to vet schools and DVM/PhD programs at UC Davis, the University of Colorado, Colorado State University, and the University of Wisconsin.
One of Dr. Pires’ greatest strengths is her approachability and flexibility. Given her years of scientific publication and presentation experience, she also has a knack for writing and accuracy. As a first-generation college graduate and native New Yorker of mixed Hispanic and European heritage, Dr. Pires brings a deep understanding of the challenges that students from diverse backgrounds may face when pursuing higher education. She is committed to working with students of all backgrounds, providing them with the guidance, support, and resources they need to succeed in their journey to veterinary school and beyond.
Undergrad: City University of New YorkHunter College
Veterinary School: Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
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Undergrad: University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Bianchi’s academic journey began at UC Davis, where she graduated magna cum laude with a BS in animal science and Italian Literature. During her undergraduate years, Dr. Bianchi demonstrated a strong commitment to research and community service. She was involved in two research labs, working on correlating CRISPR knockout mouse model phenotypes to human-associated diseases and studying how certain feed additives can mitigate greenhouse gases produced by dairy cattle. Her research efforts culminated in a presentation at an undergraduate research conference and the completion of a manuscript. She was also recognized with the Undergraduate Research Scholar Award and was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society.
During this time, Dr. Bianchi's passion for veterinary medicine extended beyond the classroom. She was heavily involved with a student-run veterinary clinic providing free services for the pets of unhoused individuals and co-founded a club to collect and donate veterinary medical supplies to underprivileged clinics abroad. Her hands-on experience includes working as a technician at a specialty hospital and gaining exposure to wildlife veterinary care during a summer internship in Australia. She also served as a tutor in the Italian and French Department, a peer mentor in animal sciences, and received the President's Volunteer Gold Service Award.
In vet school, Dr. Bianchi also served as President of the Mercer Veterinary Clinic for Pets of the Homeless and Vice President for the Student American Veterinary Medicine Association at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. She spent a summer conducting orthopedic research on a specific breed of dog that suffers from chondrodystrophy. She was also the recipient of the Students Training in Advanced Research (STAR) Award, allowing her to receive grants to conduct her own research project. She worked as a researcher in the J.D. Wheat Orthopedic Laboratory during her veterinary school career, bridging the gap between how genetics contributes to specific orthopedic and neurologic diseases in chondrodystrophic dogs.
Dr. Bianchi's academic achievements and contributions to the field have been recognized through various honors. She was awarded the Outstanding AJVR Student Manuscript Award by the American Veterinary Medical Association, demonstrating her exceptional research and writing skills. She has published research in the American Journal of Veterinary Research.
Dr. Bianchi’s passion for counseling pre-veterinary students stems from the support she has received from great mentors throughout her life. She recognizes the value of having a supportive mentor on this challenging journey, and she is dedicated to providing that same level of support to students. She takes a personalized approach, providing students with dedicated attention and crafting unique, specific plans to maximize their success. Students Dr. Bianchi has coached have been accepted to top vet schools at UC Davis, Cornell University, Colorado State University, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Florida, and many others.
Dr. Bianchi's greatest strengths as a consultant lie in her extensive experience and ability to quickly identify a student’s strengths and weaknesses. In her mentoring role, she excels at helping applicants craft narratives that highlight their individual experiences and create cohesive stories. Each counseling session with Dr. Bianchi is goal-oriented, yet flexible to accommodate the unexpected. She lets students drive sessions by identifying what they want to focus on, ensuring they are equipped with the resources and plans needed to answer their questions. Dr. Bianchi is passionate about helping the incoming generation of veterinary doctors and is eager to share her knowledge and insights.
Undergrad: University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Cangemi earned a bachelor's degree in animal science with honors from the University of California, Davis, followed by a DVM from the University of Minnesota. During vet school, she distinguished herself as a board member of the student chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), advocating for inclusive opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. She also gained valuable experience working at a small animal in-home clinic and as an overnight technician at the University of Minnesota while actively contributing to the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA).
After graduating, Dr. Cangemi pursued a specialty internship focused on equine medicine at Anoka Equine Veterinary Services, eventually joining the practice as an associate veterinarian. Her dedication to integrative veterinary care led her to become certified in veterinary acupuncture through the Curacore School of Acupuncture. Beyond her clinical practice, she also served on the University of Minnesota's interview panel and excels as the internship coordinator at her current practice.
Dr. Cangemi has extensive leadership experience, having managed teams at both the UC Davis Equestrian Center and the Large Animal Surgical Research Facility. She is known for her positive, supportive attitude, dedicated focus on detail and organization, and genuine desire to help others reach their goals.
Dr. Cangemi is deeply passionate about guiding veterinarians and students, believing in the importance of nurturing their professional and personal growth within the veterinary community. With 10 years of mentoring experience, her coaching skills include helping students unlock their strengths during interviews, craft clear and compelling personal statements, and navigate professional situations with confidence.
As a coach, Dr. Cangemi excels at identifying students’ strengths and drawing out what makes them truly unique. She believes the best interviews are those where the applicant's passion and excitement shine through, and she loves bringing that joy out in students. While the application process can be stressful, she ensures there is also an element of joy and fun, helping students approach it with confidence and enthusiasm.
Undergrad: University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
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Undergrad: University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Kim is a board-certified veterinarian, scientist, and educator with over a decade of experience spanning clinical medicine, veterinary public health, and higher education. He holds a BS in animal biology from the University of California, Davis, an MPH in veterinary public health, and a DVM from Ohio State University. He completed his comparative medicine residency at Colorado State University, one of the most respected programs in the field.
Dr. Kim is currently a clinical veterinarian and assistant professor at the University of Louisville, where he practices mixed animal and exotic animal medicine, treating patients ranging from dogs and cats to rabbits, ferrets, rodents, birds, and farm animals. Dr. Kim is also a scientist who has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications in areas including analgesia, antimicrobial resistance, and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). His research has appeared in leading journals.
Known for his approachable mentorship style and meticulous attention to detail, Dr. Kim works with students to build compelling applications that reflect their individuality, passion for animal health, and long-term goals. His mentorship has helped students gain admission to leading DVM programs, including UC Davis, Cornell, Ohio State, Colorado State, Auburn, Tuskegee, and LSU, among others. Students Dr. Kim has mentored have credited their success to his support, particularly with personal statement development and interview preparation.
As a first-generation college graduate and a champion of diversity in veterinary medicine, Dr. Kim is dedicated to providing the guidance, encouragement, and tools necessary for students to thrive in their pursuit of a DVM degree. He is excited to partner with pre-veterinary students on their journey to becoming compassionate and competent veterinary professionals, equipping them with the confidence and skills to succeed in this rewarding field.
Undergrad: University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: Saint Louis University
Graduate School: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
During his undergraduate studies at Saint Louis University, where he earned a BS in cell biology and physiology, Dr. Jedlinski gained valuable research experience through an internship at the Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine. After graduation, Dr. Jedlinski matriculated to the University of Minnesota, where he earned an MPH in epidemiology, focusing on foodborne and zoonotic diseases. While in graduate school, he was employed by the State of Minnesota Department of Health's Foodborne Illness Epidemiology Unit. Additionally, he completed a specialty internship with the Zoonotic Disease Epidemiology Unit of the Department of Health. His master's thesis was an epidemiological study of the risk of Salmonellosis among agricultural workers in Minnesota.
Dr. Jedlinski attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, where he received his VMD. During his time at PennVet, he participated in the Boehringer-Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program, a prestigious research fellowship that allowed him to work on developing a point-of-care, portable PCR diagnostic for equine infectious diseases.
Students Dr. Jedlinski has worked with have been accepted to top vet schools at Cornell, UPenn, Auburn, Tufts, and others. With his extensive academic and research background, he is well-equipped to guide students through the rigorous veterinary school admissions process. His firsthand experience navigating the application process, coupled with his expertise in various fields and time as an admissions representative, provides him with a specialized perspective to share with aspiring veterinarians.
Undergrad: Saint Louis University
Graduate School: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: Pennsylvania State University
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Mika began her higher education journey at Pennsylvania State University, where she majored in veterinary and biomedical science and minored in poultry and avian science. During her undergraduate years, Dr. Mika engaged in various activities, including working in a small mammal virome research lab and tutoring students in organic chemistry.
Driven by her passion for veterinary medicine, she went on to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Participating in an internship at an equine referral hospital, she gained hands-on experience managing emergency cases and assisting with surgeries daily. During her time at UPenn, she developed a particular interest in equine medicine, which has since become a central focus of her clinical work. While in vet school, Dr. Allison was the recipient of numerous recognitions, including the Student Anesthesia Award from the North American Veterinary Anesthesia Society.
As a coach, Dr. Mika is committed to providing students with the guidance, support, and resources they need to succeed in the veterinary school application process. She works closely with each student to develop a customized schedule that allows ample time for brainstorming, drafting, and refining their application materials. She recognizes that every student has different priorities, interests, and strengths, and works closely with each individual to identify programs that align with their specific needs and objectives.
Another key aspect of Dr. Mika's advising approach is her focus on helping students craft applications that accurately reflect their true identities and experiences. She understands that the most compelling applications are those that highlight a student's qualities, achievements, and passion for veterinary medicine. To this end, she works diligently with students to highlight their strengths, refine their personal statements, and ensure that their applications present a holistic and authentic picture of who they are as individuals and aspiring veterinarians.
Undergrad: Pennsylvania State University
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Thurston began his path to vet school at the University of Minnesota, majoring in animal science with a minor in business, graduating summa cum laude. He worked at a small animal clinic as a technician assistant, volunteered at the university’s teaching hospital in the physical rehabilitation department, and worked for the swine department. There, he researched new respiratory disease diagnostic methods and helped write a textbook for veterinary students for their food animal medicine class.
Dr. Thurston was also heavily involved in the pre-vet club and his church group, and worked in the admissions office to set up custom tour experiences for prospective students. He enjoyed designing experiences that highlighted areas of interest for students and connected them with faculty and resources at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Thurston was recognized for his efforts with the National SAVMA John Pitts Award, given to a student for exemplary service to the veterinary profession.
Dr. Thurston graduated with a DVM from the University of Wisconsin. During this time, he served as a student admissions ambassador, building on his previous experience as a student worker in the College of Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota. During vet school, he received the University of Wisconsin Eberhard Rosin General Surgery Award.
He believes that every student starts their unique journey in their chosen field, accumulating valuable strengths that contribute to their future success. He begins by exploring each student's path, helping them identify the strengths they have already developed. Drawing from his extensive knowledge of the veterinary profession, Dr. Thurston then guides students in presenting these strengths effectively to admissions committees, demonstrating how the prospective student would fit into their incoming class and thrive at their institution. Students Dr. Thurston has worked with have been accepted to top vet schools, including the University of Wisconsin, the University of Minnesota, and Cornell University.
Dr. Thurston works with students to identify areas of their application that can be improved. This may involve building upon existing strengths or addressing gaps in experience or education. He recommends additional experiences, honors, or letters of recommendation that can bolster the student's profile. Throughout the entire process, Dr. Thurston maintains regular communication with each student, ensuring they are comfortable with the pace and approach. He makes adjustments as necessary to tailor the experience to each individual's needs, recognizing that every student's journey is deserving of a personalized strategy.
At Inspira Advantage, Dr. Thurston loves connecting with applicants and guiding them along their journey to vet school acceptance. Having worked with many veterinary students, he knows that successful students come from very diverse backgrounds and pre-vet experiences. He enjoys helping students discover and highlight the part of their journey that makes them a valuable addition to an incoming class.
As a general practice veterinarian, Dr. Thurston gets to see complex internal medicine cases, perform surgery, and consult pet owners on nutrition and behavior, sometimes all on the same day. He strives to provide the highest quality of care to all his patients, utilizing skills in ultrasonography, endoscopy, and more.
Undergrad: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: Cornell University
Veterinary School: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Cucui has been involved in the veterinary field for 15+ years. She worked at a veterinary clinic in NYC before attending Cornell, where she earned her BA in classics. Dr. Cucui spent her summers in college volunteering at a Romanian veterinary hospital and dog shelter as well as working at a zootherapy-focused equestrian center in Quebec. During the school year, Dr. Cucui would conduct independent studies examining veterinary practices in various cultures and historical periods, including Romania, ancient Greece, Rome, and India. Alongside her academic pursuits, Dr. Cucui showcased her leadership skills by captaining and coaching her rugby team.
Continuing her education at Cornell's veterinary school, Dr. Cucui focused primarily on shelter medicine. Her dedication to serving underserved communities was evident through her participation in Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) and Rural Veterinary Experience Teaching (RVETS) trips, providing medical and surgical care to cats, dogs, and horses in areas with limited access to veterinary services.
Dr. Cucui's innovative spirit shone through her research with the Alliance for Contraception in Cats & Dogs, where she developed a novel ear tag for free-roaming animals. This project earned her funding through Cornell's Expanding Horizons International Education Program, allowing her to conduct field trials in Romania. During her clinical year, Dr. Cucui gained experience through shelter-related externships, including forensics at the ASPCA and mobile spay/neuter services at the University of Illinois. This comprehensive training prepared her for a career dedicated to animal welfare and shelter medicine.
After earning her DVM, Dr. Cucui's professional journey took her to various settings, each contributing to her expertise in shelter medicine. She practiced at a private, non-profit animal shelter in Buffalo, NY, where she also taught veterinary students from Lincoln Memorial University. Her commitment to urban animal welfare led her back to NYC, where she worked at the city's municipal shelter before pursuing a fellowship in emergency medicine.
Currently, Dr. Cucui runs her own relief practice, specializing in high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter services, shelter medicine, and emergency care for various non-profits, corporations, and independent practices. Her long-term goals include becoming board-certified in shelter medicine and opening a spay/neuter clinic in rural Transylvania.
Throughout her career, Dr. Cucui has been a dedicated mentor to many pre-veterinary and veterinary students from diverse backgrounds. Her passion for teaching and her wealth of experience in various aspects of veterinary medicine help her provide high-impact mentorship to aspiring veterinarians.
As an admissions consultant, Dr. Cucui brings a perspective shaped by her first-generation professional status, her diverse international experiences, and her expertise in shelter and emergency medicine. She is committed to helping applicants navigate the complex veterinary school application process, drawing on her own journey and her experience mentoring students from various backgrounds. Dr. Cucui's goal is to empower the next generation of veterinarians, helping them highlight what makes them unique.
Undergrad: Cornell University
Veterinary School: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
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Undergrad: University of South Florida
Veterinary School: Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: University of Florida
Dr. Troncoso graduated summa cum laude from the University of South Florida with a BS in biomedical science and a minor in biomedical physics. She later completed her Master’s degree with a 4.0 GPA. She also holds a wildlife and conservation medicine certificate from Purdue University.
Dr. Troncoso has worked as a licensed Florida wildlife rehabilitator for over eight years and is a Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR) through the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. She currently serves on the board of Owl's Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she provides comprehensive care for a diverse range of patients, from household pets to exotic species.
Throughout her training, Dr. Troncoso gained experience at various prestigious institutions. She completed externships at the Animal Care Center at Busch Gardens in Tampa, FL, and the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) in Sanibel, FL. She also spent several months at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Jacksonville, FL, honing her skills in zoological medicine. Her passion for exotic animal care led her to pursue extended rotations in exotic animal and raptor medicine, as well as an exotic-only externship at Broward Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital in Deerfield Beach, FL.
While exotic animal medicine is her primary focus, Dr. Troncoso's professional interests also include dermatology, oncology, and small ruminant medicine. This diverse skill set allows her to provide comprehensive care to a wide range of patients.
Undergrad: University of South Florida
Veterinary School: Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: University of Florida


Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
Veterinary School: Michigan State University
After graduating from Michigan State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, she spent four years serving in the US Army Veterinary Corps, where she provided veterinary care for Military Working Dogs and service members' pets.
Following her military service, Dr. Rivard transitioned to a career dedicated to marine mammal medicine and conservation. She completed a yearlong aquatic animal medicine and research internship at Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut, followed by a two-year veterinary fellowship at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, California. These experiences provided her with the specialized training and expertise necessary to excel in her current role at SR3.
Dr. Rivard's commitment to the health and welfare of marine wildlife extends beyond her clinical work. She actively participates in research projects aimed at deepening our understanding of the threats and challenges faced by marine mammals in the wild. By rescuing and caring for sick and injured animals, Dr. Rivard and the team at SR3 learn about conservation efforts and help protect these species for future generations. As a passionate advocate for marine conservation, Dr. Rivard plays an important role in promoting the health and welfare of marine wildlife in the Pacific Northwest.
Dr Rivard’s greatest strength as a consultant is that she is incredibly organized and exceptionally skilled at creating a plan and breaking down short-term and long-term deadlines. She is flexible and open-minded. One of her favorite parts about working with students is learning more about their unique perspectives and supporting their individuality to help them navigate decisions.
Dr. Rivard stands out as a versatile veterinarian with a wealth of experience across diverse career fields, including small animal private practice, government and military roles, public health, zoo and aquarium medicine, and wildlife fieldwork. This background allows her to provide expert guidance to students exploring various paths within the veterinary profession.
Through her passion for mentoring, Dr. Rivard has developed a deep understanding of the specialty programs offered by each veterinary school and is well-acquainted with post-graduate opportunities such as internships, fellowships, and residencies in academic, private practice, and non-profit settings, on both traditional and non-traditional career paths.
Working with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences has helped her learn how to tailor teaching and mentoring techniques to educate students in the best way possible. It has also provided her with several unique perspectives that she applies to the learning of future students.
Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
Veterinary School: Michigan State University


Undergrad: Colorado State University
Veterinary School: Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biological Sciences
During her time at Colorado State University's DVM program, Dr. McDaniel's career goals underwent significant changes. While she initially focused on equine medicine during her undergraduate studies at Colorado State, she developed a strong interest in small animal care and oncology through her work as a veterinary assistant at CSU's Flint Animal Cancer Center. She also received multiple scholarships, including the Westernaires Equine Scholarship, National Western Stock Show Scholarship, Vet Start Scholarship, and others.
After matriculating to vet school, Dr. McDaniel also actively participated in professional organizations such as the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM). Her professional interests are particularly focused on preventative care and internal medicine, reflecting her commitment to the health and well-being of equine patients.
After exploring a variety of both small animal and equine opportunities throughout veterinary school, her love for horses and working outdoors ultimately determined her career path. This experience of having to navigate her own changing interests and ultimately finding her passion in equine ambulatory practice has inspired her to mentor students facing similar challenges. Dr. McDaniel encourages students to explore various areas of the profession, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the many opportunities within veterinary practice.
After graduation, Dr. McDaniel jumped right into equine general practice and emergency care. Currently, she practices equine ambulatory medicine in the picturesque Virginia horse country, where she finds great fulfillment in mentoring both pre-veterinary and veterinary students. Her favorite days are when she brings high school or pre-veterinary students along for the ride, filling the time between calls with stories of veterinary adventures, admission advice, and career insights.
Dr. McDaniel recognizes that every applicant brings a distinctive set of skills and experiences to the table. She takes pride in working closely with each individual to demonstrate how their presence will enrich both the veterinary school and the profession as a whole. She is a firm believer in the importance of diversity in veterinary medicine and is dedicated to helping students highlight how their life experiences add value to the field.
Undergrad: Colorado State University
Veterinary School: Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biological Sciences


Undergrad: Ohio State University
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Bartholomew's journey began at Ohio State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in agriculture (animal sciences) with a minor in neuroscience, graduating magna cum laude with Honors Research Distinction. She was involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including serving as Vice President and President of the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association, tutoring and advising students, and participating in two international research internships. One took place in South Africa, where she worked with great white sharks, seals, dolphins, and other cetaceans, and the other took place in South America, where she provided spay/neuter and other veterinary wellness services to underserved communities. She also received the CFAES Outstanding Senior Award and was an American Society of Animal Sciences Undergraduate Scholar.
At Ohio State's veterinary school, Dr. Bartholomew demonstrated her leadership through roles such as President of her class, participation in student organizations, and involvement in research culminating in a first-author publication. She received the SAVMA Senior Service Award and the Gertrude Hoeger Award in Clinical Biomedical Research. She was an active member of organizations, such as VCA, VIDA, and VetPrep, where she interviewed candidates and participated in new student orientation.
Dr. Bartholomew’s passion for leadership and service continued with a nomination to attend the Veterinary Leadership Institute’s Veterinary Leadership Experience (VLE), an organization dedicated to facilitating the growth of servant leaders within the veterinary profession. With a passion for travel and service, Dr. Bartholomew went to Thailand to study elephants and their cultural importance to the country.
After graduating magna cum laude with her DVM, Dr. Bartholomew pursued mixed animal practice in rural Pennsylvania and participated as a veterinarian for the Willow 300 Sled Dog Race. She has also written a chapter for the Five Minute Consult and continues to participate in Ohio State's file review process and the Veterinary Leadership Institute's Veterinary Leadership Experience.
In her current role at Veterinary Referral Center Malvern, Dr. Batholomew is an associate emergency veterinarian, Director of the ER Immerse Program, and the Externship Coordinator. These roles and her time serving on the Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine admissions committee have provided her with keen insights into how applicants can stand out and present their best selves to top vet schools.
Dr. Bartholomew is dedicated to helping new veterinarians grow and thrive, and she extends this same commitment to aspiring applicants. She enjoys guiding individuals through the admissions process in a way that feels manageable, attainable, and empowering. Her strengths as a coach include helping candidates with self-exploration to develop the most compelling application and encouraging them to maintain mental health while pursuing their passions.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Bartholomew combines her enthusiasm for mentoring with a holistic approach to guiding students toward their goals. She provides a structured plan for success while fostering a deep understanding of each applicant's unique attributes and desires. Her approach is grounded in genuine support and connection, ensuring that each individual receives tailored guidance that empowers them throughout the admissions process.
Undergrad: Ohio State University
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: DePauw University
Graduate School: Ohio State University
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Seal graduated with a BS in biology from DePauw University before attending Ohio State University, where she earned an MPH and DVM as a U.S. Army Health Professions Scholar. Most recently, she expanded her expertise with a graduate certificate in global health. As a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, she has also mentored others in preparing for this challenging board exam.
During her military service, Dr. Seal completed three levels of the army's resiliency training created by the University of Pennsylvania. She continues to share these valuable skills to improve well-being among veterinary professionals, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance without compromising career progression. While serving, she provided quality care and support to military working dogs, wildlife, and livestock, as well as public health and food safety services to human personnel.
Dr. Seal’s strong academic background has helped her pursue her passion for advancing animal and human health across borders and cultures. She has participated in multiple global health initiatives and projects, such as conducting disease surveillance, delivering health education, and facilitating partnerships with local communities and organizations. She currently works as a veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital.
As a coach, Dr. Seal's approach is characterized by honesty, constructiveness, and a genuine desire to help applicants succeed. She believes in highlighting each applicant's uniqueness, passion, and drive, demonstrating how they can be an asset to both the veterinary school program and the profession as a whole. Dr. Seal offers candid yet supportive guidance, always prioritizing transparency with her clients. She is knowledgeable, approachable, and deeply invested in each student’s journey to success, with the ultimate goal of ensuring every applicant presents their strongest application to maximize their chances of acceptance.
Undergrad: DePauw University
Graduate School: Ohio State University
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
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Undergrad: Kansas State University
Veterinary School: Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Seger pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinary researcher at Kansas State University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in animal sciences and industry with an equine certificate. She was accepted into Kansas State’s Early Admission Program to veterinary school during her undergraduate studies.
While pursuing her DVM, she was accepted into a dual-degree program and completed a PhD in diagnostic medicine and pathobiology. Her dissertation focused on contact network and agent-based modeling approaches for quantifying E. coli transmission in commercial US feedlot systems. During her graduate programs, Dr. Seger also participated in multiple externships at the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, working on both the CDC teams for Rabies and enteric zoonotic disease outbreaks. To further expand her expertise, Dr. Seger will soon begin an anatomical pathology residency at Iowa State University Diagnostic Laboratory.
In addition to her research pursuits, Dr. Seger is deeply committed to supporting individuals on their paths to veterinary school, graduate programs, or dual-degree tracks. During her own academic journey, the guidance of mentors and professionals played a pivotal role in her success—an experience that inspires her to pay it forward. She takes a holistic approach to admissions counseling, thoughtfully considering each student’s background, goals, and vision for their future. Dr. Seger believes every applicant brings unique experiences that have prepared them for a career in veterinary medicine, and she is dedicated to providing steady, compassionate guidance through the challenges of the application process and beyond.
As a coach, Dr. Seger excels at helping students craft standout personal statements and prepare for interviews. She uses her unique experiences and insight to help students find their best-fit programs. Dr. Seger's passion for making meaningful research impacts on animal diseases of human importance and her commitment to delivering exceptional patient care make her an exceptional resource for those pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.
Undergrad: Kansas State University
Veterinary School: Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine
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Undergrad: University of California, San Diego
Veterinary School: Western University of Health Sciences
Dr. Sedighim has always been driven by an innate love for healthcare and animals, which sparked her interest in becoming a veterinarian. Her academic journey began at the University of California, San Diego, where she obtained her Bachelor's degree in physiology and neuroscience. During her time at UCSD, she studied laboratory animal medicine, gaining experience that would later shape her career path.
Sharona's commitment to animal welfare led her to work with the San Diego Humane Society, where she gained hands-on experience in small animal general practice and shelter work. These experiences not only fortified her resolve to become a veterinarian but also provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of veterinary care. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Sedighim remained deeply engaged in research, primarily focusing on cardiac and translational medicine. Her efforts have resulted in multiple publications and presentations.
From volunteering as a basketball coach for elementary students to guiding aspiring veterinary professionals in her research labs, she actively supports and nurtures the growth of those around her. Dr. Sedighimoffers insider tips to aspiring veterinarians on their paths to vet school. Dr. Sedighim is passionate about helping pre-vet students enter the field and wants to extend the same expertise and compassion her mentors gave her on her path toward becoming a veterinarian.
Undergrad: University of California, San Diego
Veterinary School: Western University of Health Sciences


Undergrad: University of Wisconsin–Madison
Veterinary School: University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Writt earned her undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison before pursuing her DVM. During her time at UW–Madison, she began her journey in student support as a peer academic advisor, a role she continued for three years through her undergraduate and veterinary studies. This experience ignited her passion for counseling, as she found great fulfillment in supporting students both professionally and personally as they worked toward their goals.
In addition to her academic advising role, Dr. Writt served as a mentor for two years during veterinary school, further honing her skills in guiding and supporting students. Her experience in small and large animal clinical research has provided her with a deep understanding of the complexities of veterinary medicine. Her leadership roles in veterinary school extracurricular activities have also deepened her skills in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
As a consultant, Dr. Writt specializes in helping students navigate the application process by setting small, frequent, and specific goals to make it more manageable. She understands the stress associated with applying to veterinary school and strives to make the process as enjoyable as possible, often incorporating humor into her sessions to keep spirits high.
One of Dr. Writt's greatest strengths as a consultant is her skill in proofreading essays and personal statements. She excels at helping students refine their writing to ensure they stand out to admissions committees. Her coaching style focuses on identifying and highlighting each student's strengths, incorporating specific aspects of their personality to create compelling applications.
Dr. Writt approaches each counseling session with the individual student in mind, tailoring her guidance to their specific needs and goals. She draws from her personal experience with the application process to provide relevant, up-to-date advice, including current educational and admissions insights.
Dr. Writt’s current veterinary interests include emergency medicine, surgery, primary care, and dermatology. Her academic and counseling background allows her to offer comprehensive support to students aspiring to enter the field of veterinary medicine.
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin–Madison
Veterinary School: University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University
Graduate School: Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Veterinary School: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Elcombe graduated with a BS in animal science with a minor in equine science from California Polytechnic State University. Her undergraduate studies sparked a deep interest in equine reproduction and exercise physiology, leading her to pursue further education in the field. To explore her passion for research and clinical work, she obtained a Master’s degree specializing in equine physiology at Southern Illinois University, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA. During this time, she also interned at a clinic in Western Kentucky that specialized in equine lameness, solidifying her desire to combine research with clinical medicine. Following her master's degree, she worked as a small animal veterinary technician for two years.
Dr. Elcombe graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, where she studied equine medicine. Her time at UC Davis was marked by numerous achievements, including serving as one of the Presidents of her class and the Student Chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), and working as a student technician in the Large Animal Surgery Department of the UC Davis Veterinary Teaching Hospital. She also conducted research on equine genetics through the UC Davis Students Training in Advanced Research (STAR) Program, resulting in a publication in the Equine Veterinary Journal. The research focused on variants associated with equine familial isolated hypoparathyroidism (EFIH) and fragile foal syndrome (FFS) in the US Thoroughbred population. Additionally, Megan was inducted into the Phi Zeta Veterinary Honor Society and selected as a recipient of the Foundation for the Horse/AAEP Coyote Rock Ranch Scholarship, the most prestigious scholarship awarded to equine veterinary students.
As a veterinary admissions consultant, Dr. Elcombe brings firsthand experience of the challenges in the application process. She understands the stress and frustration that applicants can experience with lower GPAs, being a non-traditional student, or navigating the complexities of the admissions process. She is passionate about helping aspiring veterinarians highlight their qualities and minimize the stress of applying to vet school. Her coaching has helped students gain acceptance to numerous veterinary schools, including the University of Georgia, the University of Pennsylvania, Mississippi State University, the University of Florida, Cornell University, and other prestigious institutions.
When she's not working, Dr. Elcombe enjoys spending time with her horse, her cats Sirius and Cissy, and socializing with friends. Dr. Elcombe's combination of academic excellence, research experience, and clinical expertise, coupled with her personal experience with the application process, makes her a great asset for those pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.
Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University
Graduate School: Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Veterinary School: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: University of Florida
Veterinary School: UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Born and raised in Clearwater, Florida, Dr. Clark always knew she wanted to be a veterinarian. Her passion for animals led her to the University of Florida for her undergraduate studies, where she double-majored in animal science and Spanish language and was a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. Dr. Clark not only excelled academically, but gained valuable hands-on experience by volunteering at local small animal clinics and working overnight shifts as a research assistant on a canine gene therapy study.
In her junior year, Dr. Clark was in a car accident that left her unable to walk for six months. Despite this adversity, she preserved and achieved a 4.0 GPA. At the end of her senior year, she was awarded the Greek Academic Achievement Award—the highest academic honor in Greek Life, awarded to only one candidate annually.
After being admitted to several veterinary schools across the country, Dr. Clark decided on a new adventure and moved to California to attend the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. She focused her studies on the small animal track and used her time away from studies to explore California and have unique experiences that kept her motivated.
Dr. Clark understands that there is no one “formula” to get admitted to veterinary school. As an admissions coach, she is passionate about guiding prospective veterinary students, believing that authenticity and personal growth are key to success. She’s eager to help future veterinarians navigate this exciting chapter of their educational and professional careers!
Undergrad: University of Florida
Veterinary School: UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: University of Florida
Veterinary School: University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
While at the University of Florida, Dr. Woods was actively involved with a clinical pathology lab, focusing on her interest in small animal medicine, particularly urgent care cases. Dr. Woods’ professional experience spans various sectors of animal care, including small animal emergency settings, general practice clinics, and wildlife rehabilitation centers. This diverse background provides her with a comprehensive understanding of different aspects of veterinary medicine, which she leverages to guide aspiring veterinarians.
As a consultant, Dr. Woods’ greatest strengths lie in her exceptional organizational skills, adaptability, and efficiency—traits honed through her current role in emergency medicine. She excels at helping applicants optimize their resources and time management, ensuring they present the strongest possible applications. Her involvement with the interview panel at her veterinary school has also equipped her with insider tips for conducting mock interviews.
Beyond her academic and clinical pursuits, Dr. Woods is passionate about helping aspiring veterinary students navigate the challenging and time-consuming application process. Having experienced the stress of this journey firsthand, she empathizes deeply with the difficulties faced by applicants and is committed to supporting them in every possible way.
Dr. Woods’ approach to consulting is highly personalized. She prefers working with one applicant at a time, allowing for intensive, one-on-one guidance. Dr. Woods is a supportive guide who excels at recognizing and highlighting each applicant's strengths, helping them present the best version of themselves to admissions committees.
With her academic excellence, practical experience across various veterinary settings, and genuine passion for mentoring, Dr. Woods is well-equipped to guide aspiring veterinary students through every step of their journey, from crafting compelling applications to preparing for interviews and beyond.
Undergrad: University of Florida
Veterinary School: University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine


Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Graduate School: Kansas State University
Veterinary School: Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Voss grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area before making her way to Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo to obtain a BS in animal science and a minor in biology. After taking some time to travel and gather work experience, she decided to pursue a Master's degree in public health at Kansas State University. This degree had a specific emphasis on zoonotic and infectious diseases. With her Master's in hand, she returned to California for veterinary school.
After graduation, Dr. Voss' professional journey took her to a large specialty hospital in Denver for a rotating small animal and surgery internship. She has been practicing emergency medicine in Colorado ever since, and has worked with and coached many interns and externs.
Dr. Voss takes pride in her teaching and career counseling capabilities. Her coaching experience, paired with her role on the Western University of Health Science College of Veterinary Medicine admissions committee, provides her with unique insights into the vet school admissions process and how to best position candidates.
Dr. Voss is passionate about helping students identify and highlight their unique strengths in their applications and preparing them for interviews. She has a keen eye for editing personal statements and essays, helping students capture their experiences and aspirations accurately.
Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Graduate School: Kansas State University
Veterinary School: Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary 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 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: University of Missouri-Kansas City
Medical School: University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine
Dr. Nwankwo is a physical medicine & rehabilitation (PM&R) resident at Baylor College of Medicine and plans to pursue a pain medicine fellowship. She completed the combined BA/MD program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Medicine, earning a degree in biology and chemistry, and graduating with departmental distinction in academic excellence from the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences. She served on admissions committees at both UMKC and her residency program at Baylor.
Dr. Nwankwo received numerous undergraduate offers, including acceptances from Yale, Harvard, and Penn, but ultimately chose UMKC for its accelerated medical program. She went on to earn her MD from UMKC and has maintained a longstanding commitment to academic excellence and leadership throughout her education. She was a leader in multiple organizations in medical school at the local, regional, and national levels.
Throughout her training, Dr. Nwankwo has been an active clinical researcher and presenter. She has delivered posters and podium presentations at the Texas Pain Society Annual Meeting and the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP) conference, exploring topics such as combination closed-loop and dorsal root ganglion stimulation for cancer-related pain, scrambler therapy for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and temporary peripheral nerve stimulation for greater occipital neuralgia. She also serves as co-investigator on a multicenter trial evaluating novel neuromodulation devices in oncology rehabilitation.
Dr. Nwankwo brings firsthand experience from serving in decision-making roles on admissions committees at UKMC and Baylor. Dr. Nwankwo specializes in an individualized coaching style, helping students identify their unique stories, build strategic timelines, and develop compelling application materials for medical school. As a physician, educator, and mentor, Dr. Nwankwo is deeply passionate about equity in medicine and empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders through thoughtful, strategic guidance.
Undergrad: University of Missouri-Kansas City
Medical School: University of Missouri-Kansas City School 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


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
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Undergrad: University of California, Berkeley
Medical School: University of California, Davis School of Medicine
Before attending medical school, Dr. Nguyen also completed graduate studies at San Francisco State University and post-baccalaureate coursework at UC Berkeley Extension. Dr. Nguyen spent over a decade as a high school English teacher in the Bay Area, where he designed curricula for multiple grade levels and advised student organizations promoting inclusion and cultural awareness. His early career as an educator and theater director shaped his collaborative, creative approach to psychiatry and his deep commitment to mentorship and communication.
Dr. Nguyen’s professional interests include interventional psychiatry, refugee and immigrant mental health, and neurodevelopmental disorders. His research has focused on cognitive control in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder and the mental health challenges faced by refugee children, culminating in peer-reviewed publications and national conference presentations. He has conducted research with the UC Davis MIND Institute and the UCSF Department of Psychiatry, contributing to the growing body of work on adolescent and refugee mental health.
A published writer and editor, Dr. Nguyen has served on the Editorial Board of the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (JAACAP), as a columnist for MD Edge Psychiatry, and as a reviewer for Oakstone CME. His article “Hunted: Thoughts on Escape and Safety,” reflecting on the refugee experience, was featured by JAACAP Connect and later presented at Grand Rounds at the UC Davis School of Medicine.
Dr. Nguyen’s leadership and excellence in psychiatry have been recognized through the Klingenstein Third Generation Fellowship and multiple speaking invitations. He continues to combine his backgrounds in education, the arts, and medicine to promote mental health literacy, cultural humility, and innovative approaches to care. Students that Dr. Nguyen has worked with have been accepted to top BS/MD programs across the nation.
Undergrad: University of California, Berkeley
Medical School: University of California, Davis School of Medicine
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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
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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: Emory University
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Stein, a native of Manhattan, NYC has always been driven by her passion for dentistry and her desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. Her journey began at Emory University, where she followed a pre-dental track and earned a BS in biology. Her exceptional academic performance led her to the University of Pennsylvania's School of Dental Medicine, where she was awarded a Dean's Merit Scholarship in recognition of her outstanding achievements both inside and outside the classroom.
During her time at Penn Dental, Dr. Stein discovered her true calling in the field of orthodontics. Her fascination with the intricacies of dental alignment and her desire to help patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles propelled her to apply to some of the most competitive orthodontic residency programs in the country. Through her hard work, dedication, and impressive track record, Dr. Stein secured a spot at her top choice—Columbia University's Orthodontic Residency Program.
Dr. Stein has navigated multiple application cycles, interview processes, and a series of rigorous exams, gaining invaluable experience and insight along the way. Having overcome these obstacles herself, she developed a strong desire to help other students facing similar challenges in their pursuit of a career in dentistry. She recognized the complexity of the application process and the importance of having a knowledgeable, supportive mentor to guide students through the journey.
Drawing from her own experiences in admissions and her deep understanding of what makes a strong application, Dr. Stein has dedicated herself to serving as a mentor to college-level and dental school students. She provides comprehensive guidance and advice throughout the dental school and residency application processes, helping students highlight their strengths and achievements.
One of Dr. Stein's greatest strengths is her exceptional organizational skills and her commitment to efficiency. She understands the demanding lifestyle of college students and the importance of managing time effectively. She takes pride in creating prioritized to-do lists, breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps, and collaborating with students to ensure that they can complete their applications and requirements in a way that is both efficient and minimally overwhelming. Her goal is to empower students to achieve their dreams while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Undergrad: Emory University
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Connecticut
Dental School: Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Throughout his years of intensive post-doctoral training, Dr. Sonnenberg demonstrated a commitment to excellence. He completed a General Practice Residency at Staten Island University Hospital, where he honed his skills in providing comprehensive dental care to a diverse patient population. Following this, he pursued a Pediatric Dentistry Residency at Woodhull Medical Center, further specializing in the specialized dental needs of children. During his pediatric residency, Dr. Sonnenberg researched obstructive sleep apnea in the pediatric dental population, earning second place at Woodhull Medical Center’s research symposium for his contributions.
Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Sonnenberg strongly advocates for mentorship within the dental profession. He recognizes that each individual possesses a set of talents and strengths, and he is committed to helping aspiring dentists identify and capitalize on these attributes. His belief in the power of mentorship as a tool for professional development drives him to assist others in achieving their goals and realizing their full potential.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Sonnenberg excels at identifying and highlighting prospective dental students' unique qualities and strengths. He is passionate about mentoring pre-dental students and guiding graduates who aspire to specialize in pediatric dentistry, helping them navigate their careers while strengthening the profession.
Dr. Sonnenberg's multifaceted experiences, ranging from his educational achievements to his clinical practice and mentorship endeavors, have contributed to the advancement of the dental profession and fostered a sense of community and support among aspiring professionals. With his impressive background, dedication to excellence, and passion for guiding others, he is an exceptional dentist and mentor, making a lasting impact on dentistry.
Undergrad: University of Connecticut
Dental School: Columbia University College of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Yang is a first-generation college and professional school graduate from Dallas, TX. She obtained a full-tuition scholarship to fund her college education at the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences and sociology. Throughout college, she was a teaching assistant and served as a mentor for freshmen students. She was also involved in student leadership, volunteer work, and research.
Dr. Yang was awarded another scholarship when she started dental school at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She was also active on campus in student organizations and leadership roles, including serving as her Class Vice President all four years.
With her background and experiences, Dr. Yang confidently leads pre-dental students to craft strong applications and reach their goals. She has a strong passion for mentorship because she attributes her successes to her mentors who helped her navigate the admissions process.
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: UC Berkeley
Dental School: Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Lee earned his dual BA degrees in social welfare and East Asian languages & cultures—Japanese at the University of California, Berkeley, and his DMD degree, Cum Laude, at the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Lee's commitment to whole-person care for underserved populations stems from his interdisciplinary studies, social work, and humanistic approach to dental medicine. His diverse clinical experience spans various organizations, including a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), a large Dental Support Organization (DSO), a pediatric dental clinic, and private dental offices. Driven by a pragmatic idealism, Dr. Lee is passionate about integrating the latest dental techniques and technologies into his practice and constantly seeks innovative ways to further develop his skill set.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Dr. Lee is a passionate artist and volunteer. He expresses his creative talents through his lifelong hobbies—Piano, Pottery, and Photography. He also gives back to his community by volunteering as a UCEAP Alumni Scholarship reviewer and participating in weekly bible study/fellowship meetings. In the future, he aims to deepen his knowledge of public health through further education and training.
Undergrad: UC Berkeley
Dental School: Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Minnesota
Dental School: University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Dr. Issac graduated from the University of Minnesota with a major in biology, society, and the environment and a minor in the history of science, technology, and medicine. Growing up, Dr. Issac was very passionate about helping others which translated into countless volunteer opportunities and experiences exposing her to different fields of healthcare. Dr. Issac ultimately decided to pursue a career in dentistry after attending a six-week program called the Summer Dental School Experience, where she did extensive research about oral health disparities under the assistant dean for admissions and diversity at the University of Minnesota.
During college, Dr. Issac worked as a pharmacy technician while continuously engaging in many extracurriculars, including serving on the pre-dental club board and volunteering at a local community dental clinic and her church. After graduation, she attended the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and was the youngest in her class.
In her last year of dental school, Dr. Issac was selected as a student ambassador. In this position, she gave tours of the school to applicants, conducted interviews, and aided the admissions committee in selecting applicants they wanted to offer an acceptance to. This was a very exciting role for her as she advised aspiring applicants with the knowledge of the reality of what dental school entails. Since then, Dr. Issac has had a passion for helping pre-dental students in their endeavor for professional school and mentoring them throughout school.
Dr. Isaac has experience mentoring and consulting students ever since her first year of dental school. She was very active in the pre-dental club at her university and knew many of the members who would often reach out to her for advice with applications, including personal statement editing and interview prep. Since graduating from dental school, she has assisted students both near and far with every aspect of the application process.
Dr. Isaac’s consulting is extremely personalized. She takes extra time getting to know each applicant and determining how they can stand out from the crowd to present the strongest application possible. She is eager to work with students to help them achieve their dreams of becoming dentists, no matter their background, and is passionate about making students stand out as exceptional applicants.
Dr. Isaac’s greatest strength as a coach is interview preparation. She believes that being personable is one of her greatest assets and something that sets her apart from others. She has a simple strategy for admission that she is looking forward to sharing with students and answering any questions in detail.
Undergrad: University of Minnesota
Dental School: University of Minnesota School of Dentistry


Undergrad: University of Virginia
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Pirooz has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence throughout her academic journey, starting with a degree in human biology from the University of Virginia. At HSDM, she graduated magna cum laude. She was awarded the Silver Medal for Scholastic Excellence, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Predoctoral Student Award for promise in pediatric dentistry, and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, a prestigious dental honor society.
Additionally, she received several academic and performance scholarships, highlighting her exceptional abilities and dedication to dentistry. She has also volunteered as an Oral Health Educator at Boston's Children's Hospital and the University of Rwanda. Her research at Harvard focused on special needs dentistry, global health, and dental trauma. She even spent one semester living in Rwanda, where she helped establish the country’s first dental school.
After earning her DMD from HSDM, Dr. Pirooz completed a pediatric dental residency at Columbia University’s New York-Presbyterian Hospital, her top choice. This experience, combined with her current practice as a board-certified pediatric dentist, has given her a specialized perspective on the skills and qualities necessary for success in dentistry. She is an associate dentist at Bright Healthy Smiles and Pediatric Dentistry of Brooklyn.
What sets Dr. Pirooz apart as a counselor is her passion for teaching and mentoring, which began during her two years as a post-undergrad physics and biology high school teacher. This experience led her to work with students throughout dental school, residency, and beyond. For nearly a decade, she has been advising pre-dental students on dental school admissions and providing expert guidance as a DAT tutor.
Dr. Pirooz's strengths lie in her ability to guide each candidate in crafting their most distinguished and compelling application, setting them up for success in securing admission to their desired dental schools. She understands the challenges and complexities of the dental school admissions process and works closely with students to help them showcase their strengths, experiences, and passion for the field.
Undergrad: University of Virginia
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Iowa
Graduate: Emerson College
Dental School: Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Fadie earned her Bachelor of Science in psychology from the University of Iowa and her Master of Science in speech-language pathology from Emerson College before pursuing her DMD at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Her exceptional performance during her dental studies was recognized through her induction into the Honos Civicus Society and the receipt of prestigious scholarships, such as the ADEA GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Preventative Dentistry Scholarship and the Dr. Alfred and Mrs. D. Suzi Osher Scholarship.
Following her dental education, Dr. Fadie completed her specialty training in pediatric dentistry at NYU Langone, further honing her skills in working with young patients. During her residency, she was selected for the Rhode Island Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Disabilities Program interdisciplinary Fellowship program.
As a leader in the dental field, Dr. Fadie founded and presided over a chapter of the Academy of Developmental Medicine in Dentistry. Before her dentistry career, she worked as a speech pathologist at Boston Children's Hospital, gaining experience working with children and collaborating with healthcare professionals.
Throughout her academic journey and career, Dr. Fadie has been actively engaged in research, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in both speech-language pathology and pediatric dentistry. Her research portfolio includes the publication of numerous book chapters and valuable contributions to studies in these fields.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Fadie leverages her rich mentorship and teaching experience to build meaningful connections with dental applicants. She is adept at identifying key attributes that contribute to shaping a comprehensive and competitive application, drawing from her firsthand knowledge of the admissions process and her experience working with a diverse range of candidates. Her warm and supportive approach, combined with her ability to provide personalized guidance and strategic advice, ensures that her students receive the tools and resources they need to succeed in their pursuit of a career in dentistry.
Dr. Fadie has a track record of successfully mentoring a diverse spectrum of candidates, ranging from non-traditional and re-applicants to those taking gap years. This experience, coupled with her nuanced understanding of the dental school admissions process, makes her an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to craft a comprehensive and competitive application for dental school and dental specialties.
Undergrad: University of Iowa
Graduate: Emerson College
Dental School: Tufts University School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Before residency, Dr. Ng completed his Bachelor’s in biological sciences at the University of Pittsburgh and his DMD at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, graduating with honors in Community Oral Health and Care of Medically Complex Patients.
Passionate about providing care to underserved communities, Dr. Ng was a part of the National Health Service Corps and worked for two years as a general dentist in Frisco, CO, providing care to mountain communities nestled around Colorado’s famous ski resorts. He has returned to academia to pursue his specialty in orthodontics.
As a coach, Dr. Ng strongly believes in becoming an ally and partner to help applicants achieve their goals. He draws upon his experiences in mentorship and teaching both undergraduate and pre-doctoral students to foster and showcase an applicant’s unique traits. He is excited to be a part of Inspira and is committed to helping students make their goals a reality!
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Toronto
Graduate School: McGill University Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences
Dental School: New York University College of Dentistry
Dr. Pham is pursuing a Master’s in health profession education at the University of Rochester Warner School of Education alongside his periodontics residency, further strengthening his ability to provide effective guidance to his students. With a DDS from New York University College of Dentistry and a Master’s of dental sciences from McGill University, Dr. Pham is well-equipped to guide aspiring dentists through the application process.
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Dr. Pham's passion for education began during his undergraduate years at the University of Toronto. There, he excelled as a coach for the university's dragon boat team while pursuing his BS in nutritional sciences and human biology.
At McGill, Dr. Pham was the Co-Founder and Vice President of the National Student Research Group Chapter at the school’s Faculty of Dentistry. In dental school, he spent two years as a teaching assistant and was President of NYU’s American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Chapter, Periodontal Club, and Student Research Group. Additionally, Dr. Pham has acted as a peer reviewer for journals including MDPI (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute), and Wiley for nearly seven years.
Dr. Pham deeply understands the challenges and setbacks that applicants face. He believes the lessons learned from his own journey have been invaluable in his professional growth; they have given him the knowledge and skills necessary to create a stellar application. Through his patient, meticulous, and strategic approach, Dr. Pham deconstructs the application process into manageable steps tailored to each individual's schedule and capabilities. He has a knack for helping students craft exceptional applications that reflect their strengths, experiences, and aspirations.
Dr. Pham is interested in working with all types of students, including reapplicants seeking advice on how to become stronger candidates and early applicants seeking goal-setting support and mentorship. Inspired by the guidance and mentorship he received throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Pham has made it his mission to pay it forward by assisting others in achieving their career aspirations. He is confident in his ability to guide with clarity at every stage of the application process.
Undergrad: University of Toronto
Graduate School: McGill University Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences
Dental School: New York University College of Dentistry
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Undergrad: University of Portland
Dental School: Oregon Health & Sciences University
Dr. Laurente's journey to becoming a dentist began in her hometown of Portland, Oregon. She graduated from the University of Portland with a BS in biology, along with minors in neuroscience and chemistry. She discovered her passion for mentoring and teaching while working as a student tutor for biology and chemistry courses and as a teaching assistant in the microbiology labs. These experiences laid the foundation for her future role as a guide and mentor to aspiring dental students.
To gain hands-on experience in the dental field and confirm her career choice, Dr. Laurente worked as a receptionist in the front office and as a sterilization technician in the back office, gaining valuable information about the day-to-day operations of a dental practice. During this time, she also focused on crafting her dental school application. Dr. Laurente's dedication and thorough preparation paid off as she traveled across the country for numerous dental school interviews. Ultimately, she chose to attend Oregon Health & Sciences University, staying close to her roots in her home state.
As a coach, Dr. Laurente excels at putting together a detailed timeline, helping students compose winning personal statements, and preparing applicants for interviews. Her greatest strengths are her communication skills and organizational abilities. She ensures that students feel fully supported, maintaining open and responsive communication tailored to their preferences. With a passion for spreadsheets, scheduling, and color-coded organization, she helps students stay on track. Above all, Dr. Laurente loves getting to know each applicant and helping them weave their unique story into a standout application.
Undergrad: University of Portland
Dental School: Oregon Health & Sciences University


Undergrad: University of Michigan
Dental School: University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Dr. Simmons’ journey in the field of dentistry began at the University of Michigan, where she earned a BS in biopsychology, cognition, and neuroscience, laying a solid foundation for her future pursuits. Continuing her journey, Dr. Simmons attended the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, widely regarded as one of the top-ranked dental schools in the United States and the world.
After graduating with her DDS, Dr. Simmons continued to expand her knowledge and skills by completing an advanced education in general dentistry residency. This additional training has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the field and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care.
With years of coaching and tutoring experience, Dr. Simmons has honed her skills in mentoring and supporting aspiring dental students. Throughout her time in dental school, she served as a student mentor, sharing her knowledge and insights with those following in her footsteps. Her dedication to helping others enter the profession is driven by her belief in the importance of providing a diverse and talented pool of dental professionals.
Dr. Simmons prides herself on tailoring her approach with each student to make them as successful as possible. She is committed to ensuring students feel supported throughout the application process and gain the insight they need to strengthen their candidacy and get into their dream dental schools.
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Dental School: University of Michigan School of Dentistry


Undergrad: University of North Dakota
Dental School: University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
With a Bachelor of Science degree with Honors from the University of North Dakota, Dr. Dutt exemplifies academic excellence. As an Honors Program graduate, he was part of a community of motivated peers and engaging faculty, developing essential life skills such as critical thinking, civic engagement, and effective communication. This foundation prepared him to be a leader in his field.
After graduation from dental school, Dr. Dutt began a comprehensive Navy dental credentialing tour at the USS Osborne Dental Clinic in North Chicago, gaining expertise in various dental disciplines. Demonstrating proficiency in Prosthodontics, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, and Oral Diagnosis, he developed a versatile skill set and a commitment to excellence in patient care.
Following his time in Illinois, Dr. Dutt was assigned to the Naval Health Clinic Oak Harbor in Washington. There, he optimized dental health for thousands of warfighters, showcasing a strong dedication to process improvement. Currently on the path to opening a private practice in the Seattle metropolitan area, he brings a blend of clinical expertise and business acumen to his coaching role.
Passionate about coaching, Dr. Dutt has successfully guided students through the dental school application process, taking pride in witnessing their achievements and contributions to the dental field. His commitment to excellence, leadership skills, and hands-on experience make him an invaluable resource for candidates navigating the dental school application journey.
Undergrad: University of North Dakota
Dental School: University of Minnesota School of Dentistry


Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Fiamoncini began her academic journey at the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned her bachelor's degree. After completing her undergraduate studies, Dr. Fiamoncini took a gap year to gain hands-on experience in the field of dentistry. She worked as a dental assistant at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in the Oral Surgery and Graduate Prosthodontics Departments, solidifying her passion for dentistry and preparing her for dental school.
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dr. Fiamoncini has developed a strong understanding of the dental school application process. She wishes that she had known about Inspira Advantage when she was applying to dental school, as it would have made the process less daunting and more manageable.
As a mentor, Dr. Fiamoncini is dedicated to helping aspiring dental students achieve their dreams. She breaks down the application process into smaller, manageable steps, ensuring that each student feels supported and confident throughout their journey. Her approach is personalized, insightful, and supportive, drawing from her own experiences as a dental student and practitioner.
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: Ohio State University
Dental School: Ohio State University College of Dentistry
Dr. Lingenfelter's journey in dentistry began with a solid foundation in biology, earning a Bachelor of Science from Ohio State University. She then pursued a DDS at Ohio State University College of Dentistry, where she graduated magna cum laude. Dr. Lingenfelter completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program at the Dayton VA Medical Center. This experience allowed her to refine her skills in restorative, fixed, and removable dentistry, enabling her to provide comprehensive and personalized treatment to her patients. As a practicing dentist and a member of the American Dental Association, Dr. Lingenfelter stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field, making sure that her students receive the most current and effective guidance.
Dr. Lingenfelter's passion for mentoring and guiding pre-dental students stems from her own experiences navigating the dental school application process. Having mentored both pre-dental and younger dental students during her time at Ohio State University College of Dentistry, she understands the challenges and opportunities that aspiring dentists face. Her goal is to help students gain confidence and showcase the best version of themselves to dental schools, maximizing their chances of success.
As a counselor, Dr. Lingenfelter recognizes that each student has strengths and challenges. She tailors her support to meet the individual needs of her students, ensuring that they receive personalized guidance throughout the application process. Her ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and adapt her approach accordingly makes her an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to pursue a career in dentistry.
Undergrad: Ohio State University
Dental School: Ohio State University College of Dentistry
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Undergrad: University of Florida
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania - Penn Dental Medicine
Dr. Cohen began his education at the University of Florida, where he graduated from the Honors Program. He is also a proud University of Pennsylvania Dental School graduate and he pursued his dental AEGD residency through NYU in Hawaii, where he spent his free time swimming, hiking, and falling off his surfboard.
Dr. Cohen's approach to mentoring is centered on empowering students and providing them with the support and guidance they need to navigate the complex and often overwhelming dental admissions process. He understands that each student's journey is unique, and he works diligently to ensure that his students feel supported every step of the way, from crafting compelling personal statements to selecting the right schools, preparing for interviews, and everything in between.
Many students have even been awarded the highly competitive military HSPS scholarship and have gone on to match into their dream residencies. Dr. Cohen's meticulous and organized approach to mentoring has been instrumental in helping his students navigate the admissions process and optimize their chances of success. In addition to his experience as a dental school mentor, Dr. Cohen has a background in writing tutoring, having served as a mentor throughout high school and college.
Dr. Cohen’s passion for dentistry and oral health is evident in his approach to patient care, and he brings that same enthusiasm to his mentoring. He is approachable, readily available to answer questions, and committed to providing his students with the guidance and support they need to succeed.
Undergrad: University of Florida
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania - Penn Dental Medicine


Undergrad: Virginia Commonwealth University
Dental School: Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine
Dr. Soltanian began her educational journey at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she studied business administration and chemistry. Throughout her undergraduate years, she participated in various extracurricular activities and held leadership positions in several organizations. From peer mentoring to multidisciplinary healthcare clubs, these experiences played a crucial role in helping her discover her passion for guiding and supporting aspiring dental students.
During her first year of dental school at Nova Southeastern, Dr. Soltanian challenged herself with training for a full 26-mile marathon while balancing her rigorous academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments. Remarkably, she completed the marathon within the same year, showcasing her exceptional discipline, determination, and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. Today, Dr. Soltanian works as a dentist at Seven Pines Dental. She is dedicated to giving back to her community and ensuring everyone can access quality dental care. She is a frequent participant in Smile at Kids, an annual event that provides dental services to children who may not otherwise have the means to receive proper oral healthcare.
With her degree in business administration and experience as a practice owner, Dr. Soltanian offers a distinctive perspective to students pursuing non-traditional science majors who want to open and manage their own practices. She guides students in selecting science and business courses and provides insights into practice management. Dr. Soltanian offers practical expertise and proven strategies to help students achieve their academic and professional goals seamlessly.
Undergrad: Virginia Commonwealth University
Dental School: Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Florida
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Emma has firsthand experience navigating the DAT and dental school admissions process, allowing her to empathize with students’ challenges and offer insider information throughout their preparation. She understands the stress and uncertainty that often accompany the dental school application process, and she is committed to providing students with the guidance and reassurance they need to succeed on the DAT. Students she has tutored have been accepted to dental programs at the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Florida, the University of Maryland, and other schools.
As a tutor, Emma is known for her ability to simplify complex sections of the DAT into digestible parts. She breaks down challenging concepts and presents them in a clear, easy-to-understand manner, ensuring students grasp the material thoroughly. Emma's approach to tutoring is highly personalized, as she recognizes that each student has a different learning style. Emma is adept at making herself readily available to address questions and concerns, offering prompt and clear communication to ensure students feel supported.
In addition to her accessibility and support, Emma excels at recognizing and accommodating students with diverse study methods and learning strategies. By adapting her teaching style to match student needs, Emma creates a learning environment that is both effective and engaging.
Undergrad: University of Florida
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Dental School: Boston University School of Dental Medicine
During her undergraduate and dental school career, Dr. Parmar mentored students during their transition into rigorous curricula while working as a peer mentor and matriculation ambassador. During dental school, Dr. Parmar served as the Boston University Vice President of the ADEA, where she constantly worked towards improving dental education while encouraging professional growth and academic success during dental school. Her genuine desire to see others succeed stems from having personally experienced the power of mentorship. Dr. Parmar is committed to paying it forward and empowering the next generation of dental professionals.
As a tutor, Dr. Parmar possesses a deep understanding of the DAT's nuances and works tirelessly to equip students with the necessary skills to excel on the test. Beyond the tangible improvements in test scores, the real success lies in the transformation of students' mindset and approach to learning. Students Dr. Parmar has tutored have been accepted to the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, among others.
Dr. Parmar excels at tailoring her lessons to target specific areas for improvement, whether it involves simplifying intricate concepts, refining critical thinking abilities, or perfecting time management strategies. As a result, students Dr. Parmar has tutored have not only achieved higher scores but also gained confidence in their abilities. Dr. Parmar finds it incredibly rewarding to see students not only achieve their academic goals but also flourish as confident, capable professionals in the field of dentistry.
Undergrad: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Dental School: Boston University School of Dental Medicine
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Undergrad: UCLA
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Alex honed her practical skills as a dental and surgical assistant in private and community clinics, gaining hands-on experience that further enriched her understanding of the dental field. She was also a pre-dental mentor and test prep student ambassador at UCLA and wants to use those experiences to help others achieve their dental school goals.
One of Alex's greatest strengths as a tutor is her broad range of experiences, which have equipped her with an ornate perspective on the dental profession. Additionally, her years of experience as a tutor have enabled her to support students from diverse educational backgrounds in achieving their academic goals.
Since starting to tutor for the DAT, Alex has helped multiple students improve their test scores and feel more confident in their testing abilities. Students she has tutored have been accepted to top dental schools at the University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan, New York University, Tufts University, UCSF, and others.
Alex's dedication to students' success is evident in her personalized approach to tutoring. Whether she provides additional resources, simplifies complex concepts, or offers encouragement and support, Alex is committed to giving every student the confidence they need to excel on the DAT.
Undergrad: UCLA
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
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Undergrad: Villanova University
Dental School: Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Mekkhi graduated from Villanova University with a BS in biology, where he was on the Dean’s List all four years. His academic pursuits, involvement in extracurricular activities, and professional experiences have refined his interpersonal skills, adaptability, and insatiable curiosity. Currently, he is a dental intern at Chesterbrook Dental Associates. With a strong interest in surgery, he brings adaptability and a problem-solving mindset to both dentistry and education, ensuring he overcomes challenges with innovative strategies.
With seven years of tutoring experience, including working with students with learning differences, college students, and pre-dental students, Mekkhi is dedicated to fostering self-confidence and long-term success in students. Specializing in DAT tutoring, he has developed a strong ability to support students individually and in groups. Mekkhi firmly believes in the power of persistence for every student to reach their target scores. He is dedicated to providing personalized guidance and support, ensuring that students excel in the DAT and achieve their academic aspirations. Students Mekkhi has tutored have been accepted to top dental schools, such as the University of Pennsylvania, New York University, Columbia University, and UCSF.
As a tutor, Mekkhi excels in pinpointing students' areas of difficulty and addressing them directly. His approach involves breaking down complex concepts into understandable parts and effectively transforming weaknesses into strengths. Through targeted strategies, he ensures that students not only grasp challenging material but also gain confidence in their abilities to master it.
Undergrad: Villanova University
Dental School: Columbia University College of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: St. Petersburg College
Dental School: University of Florida College of Dentistry
Jasmina attended St. Petersburg College, earning her Bachelor's in biology, achieving a cumulative GPA of 3.94 and a science GPA of 3.97. She received the St. Petersburg College Presidential Scholarship and the Dr. Theodore Mazzu Award. Jasmina's previous experience includes working as a dental assistant at Gulf Coast Dental Outreach.
Jasmina's journey to dentistry continued with her acceptance to the University of Florida's College of Dentistry. Throughout her dental education, she encountered and overcame various challenges, which have equipped her with knowledge and strategies that she shares with her students. Jasmina's leadership skills, honed through her experience founding a Women in STEM club, have further improved her ability to support and guide aspiring dental students.
As a tutor, Jasmina's greatest strengths lie in her adaptability and her ability to create a supportive, nurturing learning environment that encourages students to push themselves and reach their full potential. She excels at providing clear, concise explanations of complex DAT topics and offers a wealth of resources to help students reinforce their understanding and apply their knowledge in practical settings. Through her guidance and support, Jasmina has helped numerous students significantly improve their scores and gain the confidence they need to succeed in their dental school pursuits.
Beyond her academic and tutoring achievements, Jasmina is a firm believer in the importance of staying true to oneself while pursuing one's goals. She encourages students to maintain a balanced life, emphasizing the value of self-care, personal growth, and staying connected to one's passions. Jasmina's own journey, which includes enrolling in an early college program at the age of 16, completing her Bachelor's degree with a full scholarship, and gaining acceptance to dental school, is a testament to her ability to achieve success while remaining grounded and committed to her values.
Undergrad: St. Petersburg College
Dental School: University of Florida College of Dentistry


Undergrad: University at Buffalo
Dental School: University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
As an undergraduate, TaeYoung was actively involved in organizations such as the University of Buffalo Pre-Dental Club, Strength and Power Club, and the Outdoors Adventure Club, demonstrating his commitment to both intellectual growth and personal balance. Throughout his higher education journey, TaeYoung has been awarded numerous scholarships, including the Pride of NY Scholarship, the Alma Scully Scholarship, the NYS Excelsior Scholarship, and the UB Gala Endowed Scholarship.
TaeYoung’s academic foundation is further supported by rigorous coursework in gross human anatomy and exercise physiology, as well as his extended service as an anatomy course teaching assistant. This role sharpened his ability to distill complex content and deliver it with clarity.
TaeYoung’s professional experience spans multiple dental practices in New York, where he served as a dental assistant. At both Monroe Dental Clinic and Rightly Dental, he excelled in patient-centered care, achieving a satisfaction rate of over 95% through efficient clinical support and adherence to the highest standards of safety and protocol. These hands-on roles not only grounded his technical knowledge but also deepened his empathy and communication skills—qualities he now brings to his work with pre-dental students.
As a tutor, TaeYoung specializes in developing personalized study plans, providing one-on-one conceptual tutoring, and offering comprehensive DAT strategy coaching. Students he works with benefit from his meticulous organization, deep content knowledge, and calm, structured approach to test prep. Many of the students TaeYoung has taught have scored as high as 460 or higher on the DAT. TaeYoung’s greatest strengths as a coach are his ability to meet students where they are, identify key areas for growth, and help them develop habits and mindsets that sustain long-term success.
TaeYoung is passionate about mentoring because he understands the challenges and anxieties that pre-dental students face. He takes pride in not only helping students manage their DAT prep while remaining a steadfast mentor throughout the process. His approachable demeanor, strategic mindset, and unwavering support make him a trusted guide for any student ready to achieve a competitive DAT score.
Undergrad: University at Buffalo
Dental School: University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Dental School: Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine
Ahmad's dedication and hard work paid off when he achieved an impressive DAT score. His perfect score in the Reading Comprehension section further highlights his exceptional abilities and deep understanding of the subject matter.
Ahmad excels in helping students grasp complex topics while focusing on performing well in exam settings. His greatest strength lies in his ability to simplify complicated subjects and clearly explain them, making even the most daunting concepts accessible. His most effective study strategies involve answering and reviewing practice questions, allowing students to apply their knowledge in realistic scenarios and gain valuable experience for the DAT. He also emphasizes the importance of communication and encourages students to ask questions. Ahmad is enthusiastic and articulate when assisting with tough topics and clearing misconceptions or confusion.
His professionalism, empathetic demeanor, and eagerness to ensure every student's success set Ahmad apart as a tutor. He is dedicated to helping students achieve their goals and is committed to providing them with the tools and support they need to excel. His commitment to giving back to his community is evident through his role as the vice president of a charity organization on his campus, where he demonstrated his empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by others.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Dental School: Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Before matriculating at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Thomas amassed hundreds of hours shadowing various dentists and oral surgeons, worked as a dental assistant, and engaged in neurocognitive research. This hands-on experience complements his academic skills, providing a well-rounded foundation for his tutoring approach.
Thomas excels in creating customized tutoring strategies that cater to the individual learning styles and paces of students. He focuses on building strong, supportive relationships and fostering an environment that encourages open communication and trust. His tutoring sessions are dynamic and interactive, designed to not only cover test materials comprehensively but also to develop critical thinking skills essential for the DAT and future dental studies.
His ability to simplify complex concepts, combined with his commitment to providing holistic support, ensures students improve their DAT scores while gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the material. Through Thomas's guidance, many students have not only excelled on the DAT but have also learned how to be well-rounded applicants, equipped with the confidence and skills needed to succeed in their future careers.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine


Undergrad: University of Texas at Dallas
Dental School: LECOM School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Bontha has a genuine passion for teaching. She has dedicated many years to volunteering as an educator, tutoring various subjects, including math, chemistry, biochemistry, and English at the middle school, high school, and college levels. Driven by her unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their dreams of becoming dentists, Dr. Bontha enthusiastically shares her knowledge and experiences in the field. She possesses a deep understanding of the challenges faced by aspiring dentistry students during the DAT prep process. She is motivated to give them the guidance and support they need to succeed.
Dr. Bontha offers personalized instruction that combines her expertise in dentistry with proven teaching strategies. Her dedication to fostering independent thinking empowers students to approach challenges confidently and quickly. The marked improvement in students' critical thinking abilities and expanded knowledge base are shining examples of her effectiveness as a tutor, leaving a lasting impact on their academic journey.
Undergrad: University of Texas at Dallas
Dental School: LECOM School of Dental Medicine
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Undergrad: University of Georgia
Dental School: University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Herchel's journey to dental school is rooted in his upbringing in a small town in Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia for his undergraduate studies and earned a Bachelor's degree in biology. Demonstrating his exceptional academic abilities, he graduated summa cum laude from UGA in just 2.5 years. Throughout his undergraduate studies, Herchel extensively tutored, providing educational support in biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry. He even started his own tutoring company with his roommate for a time.
While at UGA, Herchel was involved in research projects demonstrating his passion for advancing dental science. He researched S. mutans, exploring how nanoparticles can inhibit the progression of dental caries. He also analyzed the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on various countries. Following his graduation, Herchel had the opportunity to contribute to the construction of the second-largest Hindu Temple in the world, Akshardham, located in Robbinsville, NJ.
Herchel's approach to tutoring is centered on empowering students to become the best candidates they can be. He works closely with each individual, identifying their strengths and areas for improvement and developing personalized study plans to help them achieve their goals. His patience, empathy, and passion for teaching make him an invaluable mentor and guide for students navigating the challenging path to dental school.
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Dental School: University of Michigan School of Dentistry