Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Loading...
Dr. Jihoon L.
University of Washington School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Lee attended the California Institute of Technology before enrolling in the University of Washington’s MD/PhD molecular and cellular biology program. He served as an interviewer and student admissions ambassador at the University of Washington School of Medicine and is currently researching immunotherapy development and immunology.
View Profile
Dr. Jihoon L.
Title
University of Washington School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Cancer Immunotherapy
Education
Undergrad: California Institute of Technology
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Lee is an avid fan of cooking and baking of all kinds. He has been trying to incorporate his own gardened products into his cooking when he can.
Dr. Lee attended the California Institute of Technology before enrolling in the University of Washington’s MD/PhD molecular and cellular biology program. He served as an interviewer and student admissions ambassador at the University of Washington School of Medicine and is currently researching immunotherapy development and immunology.
Dr. Lee’s academic journey began at Caltech, where he earned his undergraduate degree in bioengineering and contributed to several research projects in cancer biology, leading to high-impact co-authored publications. Dr. Lee spent nearly seven years as a Caltech researcher, was awarded a Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship, and continued his research in collaboration with the Heath Group. After completing his undergraduate studies, Dr. Lee attended the University of Washington School of Medicine and was the first person in his immediate and extended family to pursue medicine.
After two years of pre-clinical and one year of clinical training in the regular MD program, Dr. Lee decided to switch to the school's Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) for an MD/PhD dual degree. This decision was driven by his desire to gain more scientific training and be better equipped to perform biomedical research long-term as part of his career.
Dr. Lee worked through his PhD training, researching ways to improve cancer immunotherapy by understanding the immunology driving (or hindering) it. His ultimate goal is to practice as a clinician while also participating in translational research to help innovate the management of difficult chronic diseases.
Having lived in Korea and many different parts of the US throughout his life, Dr. Lee developed a keen interest in sciences and how to realize tangible societal impact from scientific development. Dr. Lee’s approach to counseling is flexible and efficient, allowing him to adapt to student needs while ensuring his sessions are impactful. His personal experience as a first-generation medical student and his commitment to bridging science with its impact on the community make him an ideal guide for students ready to apply to medical school or MD/PhD programs.
Dr. Joana A.
Yale University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Andoh is a resident physician in the ophthalmology residency program at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in molecular biophysics, biochemistry, and classical civilization. She went on to graduate with an MD from the Yale School of Medicine. With over a decade of coaching experience, Dr. Andoh is committed to helping aspiring medical students and residents take the necessary steps toward becoming licensed physicians.
View Profile
Dr. Joana A.
Title
Yale University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Opthamology
Education
Undergrad: Yale University
Medical School: Yale University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Andoh enjoys audiobooks, yoga, going to music festivals, tending to her plants, and making tea-infused syrups.
Dr. Andoh is a resident physician in the ophthalmology residency program at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in molecular biophysics, biochemistry, and classical civilization. She went on to graduate with an MD from the Yale School of Medicine. With over a decade of coaching experience, Dr. Andoh is committed to helping aspiring medical students and residents take the necessary steps toward becoming licensed physicians.
Dr. Andoh grew up in Illinois, attending the Phillips Exeter Academy. At Yale University, she was awarded the International Study Award and was named Student Marshal. During her time at the Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Andoh was awarded the Bay Area Ophthalmology Course Diversity Scholarship (BAOC), paying full tuition for a summer ophthalmology course at the Stanford Department of Ophthalmology. She also won 1st place for her poster through the Rabb-Venable Excellence in Ophthalmology Research Program. She also earned the Miriam Kathleen Dasey Award and Peter A.T. Grannum Prize.
An aspiring vitreoretinal surgeon, Dr. Andoh has published research on topics including diabetic retinopathy, carceral healthcare, and geographic disparities in access to care. Her work has been featured in the Journal of Ophthalmology, Journal of Ophthalmic Epidemiology, Journal of Correctional Healthcare, and JAMA, and has garnered over 100 citations. Her research and advocacy have earned her recognition from the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Women in Ophthalmology, and the American Society of Retina Specialists, as well as multiple poster awards.
At the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, Dr. Andoh has been recognized with the Nicholas T. Iliff, MD, and Sharon A. Kress Excellence in Patient Care Award and House Staff Teaching Award. She was also named an MD Advocacy Education Fund Fellow.
Dr. Andoh has worked as a medical content writer and as a program manager for aspiring medical students. She also serves as a peer reviewer for JAMA and Nature Communications. She is excited to work with students and help them achieve their academic pursuits. With a structured yet flexible approach to counseling, Dr. Andoh offers the compassionate, friendly support students need to get into medical schools and match with their dream residency programs.
Dr. John D.
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Daugherty is a veterinarian and former Owner and Medical Director of Poland Veterinary Centre in Ohio, where he led a respected small-animal practice for over 30 years. He earned a BS in zoology and a DVM from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he also served as an admissions application evaluator. With decades of clinical and leadership experience, Dr. Daugherty offers students invaluable insight into the veterinary profession and the admissions process.
View Profile
Dr. John D.
Title
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Small Animal Medicine, Surgery, Diagnostic Imaging
Education
Undergrad: Ohio State University
Vet School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Daugherty enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with his two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. His passion for veterinary medicine began when he was 8 years old. A veterinarian made a farm call to his home to provide basic preventive care to his pony.
Dr. Daugherty is a veterinarian and former Owner and Medical Director of Poland Veterinary Centre in Ohio, where he led a respected small-animal practice for over 30 years. He earned a BS in zoology and a DVM from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he also served as an admissions application evaluator. With decades of clinical and leadership experience, Dr. Daugherty offers students invaluable insight into the veterinary profession and the admissions process.
Following graduation, Dr. Daugherty began his career with the Buffalo Veterinary Group in New York, building upon the clinical skills in small-animal medicine, surgery, and diagnostic imaging he had honed at Ohio State University. In 1992, he founded the Poland Veterinary Centre, where he served as Owner and Medical Director for over three decades. Under his leadership, the practice became known for its excellence in internal medicine, dentistry, diagnostic imaging, and surgery, as well as its emphasis on compassionate, evidence-based care. His tenure was defined by a deep commitment to both patient welfare and professional mentorship, guiding numerous veterinarians, technicians, and students as they developed their clinical and leadership skills.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Daugherty has had a far-reaching impact on the veterinary profession through his long-standing involvement with the Veterinary Information Network (VIN), one of the world’s largest online communities for veterinarians. A VIN member since 1994, he currently serves on the VIN Board of Directors, acts as an associate editor for diagnostic imaging, and serves as the VIN Board of Directors Liaison to the VIN Foundation—a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterinary students and professionals through education, mentorship, and well-being initiatives. In these roles, Dr. Daugherty has contributed to global educational efforts, mentorship programs, and wellness advocacy for veterinary professionals at all stages of their careers.
Dr. Daugherty also plays an active role in veterinary education and admissions. For three consecutive cycles, he served as an admissions application evaluator for the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he reviewed and evaluated applicants on academic preparedness, professionalism, and program fit. This experience, combined with his decades in practice, gives him a unique perspective on what makes a successful veterinary school candidate. He also serves as a mentor for the VIN Virtual Veterinary Internship program, supporting veterinary students and recent graduates through case-based discussions, clinical reasoning exercises, and professional development guidance.
In addition to his leadership within VIN, Dr. Daugherty is a long-standing member of several professional organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), and the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA). His work in diagnostic imaging, practice management, and mentorship has been widely recognized within the veterinary community for its depth, precision, and educational impact.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Daugherty’s strengths lie in his evaluative expertise, mentorship experience, and ability to help applicants present themselves with authenticity and clarity. His approach is thoughtful and strategic, helping students identify their key motivations and articulate their professional readiness through polished, purposeful application materials. He encourages self-reflection, integrity, and confidence throughout the process, emphasizing not only admission success but also long-term professional growth. Students that Dr. Daugherty has coached have been accepted to vet schools at the Ohio State University, Cornell University, North Carolina State University.
Dr. Daugherty’s passion for coaching stems from his own lifelong love of veterinary medicine and his belief in the transformative power of mentorship. He takes pride in helping aspiring veterinarians develop the skills and mindset needed to excel in this demanding but rewarding field. As an avid reader and lifelong learner who values curiosity, intellectual engagement, and personal growth, Dr. Daugherty is ready to guide the next generation of veterinarians to success.
Dr. Joonhyuk L.
University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Dr. Lee is a diagnostic radiology resident physician at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine (UCCOM) with 11+ years of mentoring experience. He has over nine years of medical research experience, earning several international research grants and awards. His work has been presented in Germany and Japan, and one of his projects won a gold medal in the first-ever Bionics Olympics in Switzerland.
View Profile
Dr. Joonhyuk L.
Title
University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Diagnostic Radiology
Education
Undergrad: Case Western Reserve University
Medical School: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Fun Fact
In his free time, Dr. Lee loves to be outdoors and recently picked up pickleball and basketball. He regularly goes on walks with his wife and his two cats; at home, he plays the cello and expands on his massive Lego collection.
Dr. Lee is a diagnostic radiology resident physician at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine (UCCOM) with 11+ years of mentoring experience. He has over nine years of medical research experience, earning several international research grants and awards. His work has been presented in Germany and Japan, and one of his projects won a gold medal in the first-ever Bionics Olympics in Switzerland.
Dr. Lee's academic journey began at Case Western Reserve University, where he graduated summa cum laude with a degree in biomechanical engineering. He graduated with an impressive 3.94 GPA and was Vice President of the Alpha Eta Mu Beta National Honor Society. At UCCOM, he founded and was President of the Interventional Radiology Interest Group, and managed the student-run free clinic. Currently, Dr. Lee is exploring the use of 3D-printed inferior vena cava filters to surgically guide their removals as he completes his residency.
Dr. Lee's educational background is rooted in science and math, with a mentoring career that began over 11 years ago. He has since held various teaching roles, including teaching assistant positions at Caltech and UW, as well as a research co-mentor in a lab setting.
Having navigated the college and medical school application process without the benefit of counseling services, Dr. Lee understands the challenges that many students face. He hopes to make these services more accessible to those who may not have been aware of their existence or believed them to be out of reach.
As a lifelong mentor, Dr. Lee has worked with a diverse group of students, from third graders to medical school applicants. He has served as a teaching assistant, teacher, and application specialist, guiding students to successful medical school acceptances. These experiences have granted him insight into how individuals evolve throughout their academic journey, allowing him to provide tailored guidance.
One of Dr. Lee's greatest strengths as a consultant is his ability to quickly synthesize an applicant's profile from background documents and initial discussions. He continually builds upon this profile, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each individual's strengths and weaknesses. Through multiple rounds of discussion, he guides individuals in crafting a cohesive and well-rounded profile that highlights their distinct backgrounds and goals. By doing so, he empowers applicants to stand out as interesting and worthy candidates for their desired programs.
Dr. Lee's expertise in medical school admissions makes him an expert consultant for aspiring physicians. His mix of engineering and medical knowledge, combined with his research experience and passion for mentorship, positions him well to guide students through the complexities of medical school applications.
Dr. Joseph B.
University of Washington School of Medicine
Director of Advising
While attending the University of Washington School of Medicine, Dr. Bigham served on the admissions committee for three years, interviewing prospective students. His commitment to mentorship has resulted in students he has coached gaining acceptance to top medical schools like UPenn, Stanford, the University of Washington, Dartmouth, UCSF, UCLA, UC San Diego, WashU, and others.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph B.
Title
University of Washington School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Washington
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Bigham is a salmon fisherman with an eye for fashion and film photography. He also has a deep appreciation for music, often listening to Amapiano while he works or unwinds.
While attending the University of Washington School of Medicine, Dr. Bigham served on the admissions committee for three years, interviewing prospective students. His commitment to mentorship has resulted in students he has coached gaining acceptance to top medical schools like UPenn, Stanford, the University of Washington, Dartmouth, UCSF, UCLA, UC San Diego, WashU, and others.
Dr. Bigham holds a BS in public health from the University of Washington and has been actively involved in orthopedic and anesthesiology research for over nine years. As a research assistant in the Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, he has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, focusing on biomechanics, surgical outcomes, and wearable technology applications in medicine. His research excellence has been recognized with the prestigious Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Seed Grant.
Recognized for his contributions to medicine and service, Dr. Bigham is a recipient of the UW Medicine Community Service Endowed Scholarship and a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. He is also affiliated with the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the Evelyn E. Henley Anesthesia Society, reinforcing his commitment to the field of anesthesiology.
His contributions have been recognized in 25+ peer-reviewed publications, scientific abstracts, poster presentations, and podium presentations at national and international conferences. Dr. Bigham has actively contributed to medical research by designing a wearable device to reduce neck pain in surgeons and developing a groundbreaking endoscopic surgical device that can suction and grasp tissue simultaneously.
Beyond research, Dr. Bigham is an innovator in medical technology. As a fellow in the Engineering Innovation in Health Program, he collaborated with engineers to develop an endoscopic surgical device capable of simultaneous tissue suction and grasping, securing a U.S. patent for this groundbreaking invention.
Dr. Bigham’s leadership extends into community service and medical education. He is the Founder and President of the CandleLight Foundation, Co-Founder of the Black Men in White Coats UWSOM chapter, and has served as President of the Student National Medical Association. He has also played an active role in medical school admissions as an ambassador, ensuring a welcoming experience for prospective students. His dedication to mentoring future medical professionals is evident in his work with the Doctor for a Day program, where he helps high school students from underrepresented backgrounds navigate the path to a medical career.
As a coach, Dr. Bigham’s greatest strengths lie in his ability to help candidates break down complex processes into manageable steps. He excels at identifying individuals' strengths and helping them craft compelling personal narratives, drawing from his own experiences of perseverance, resilience, and determination. His coaching approach is grounded in empathy, as he understands the systemic barriers that many students face and is passionate about helping them overcome these challenges.
Dr. Bigham is committed to creating systemic change by mentoring and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals, especially those from marginalized communities. His unique combination of personal experience, academic achievement, and research expertise makes him an invaluable guide for students seeking to achieve their goals in medicine.
Dr. Joseph B.
New York University School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Dr. Basilice has over 20 years of coaching and admissions experience, including serving on the NYU School of Dentistry admissions committee and the Beekman Downtown Hospital residency selection committee. Dr. Basilice has built two successful dental practices which he continues to operate today as CEO of Cosmopolitan Cosmetic Solutions Corp for over three decades.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph B.
Title
New York University School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Surgical Dentistry
Education
Undergrad: St. John's University
Dental School: New York University School of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Dr. Basilice was invited back to the NYU School of Dentistry to teach operative dentistry after completing his dental residency.
Dr. Basilice has over 20 years of coaching and admissions experience, including serving on the NYU School of Dentistry admissions committee and the Beekman Downtown Hospital residency selection committee. Dr. Basilice has built two successful dental practices which he continues to operate today as CEO of Cosmopolitan Cosmetic Solutions Corp for over three decades.
Dr. Basilice’s journey into dentistry began following a childhood incident that resulted in dental trauma. This experience, which required a decade of treatment from various dental specialists, inspired him to pursue a career in dentistry to help others regain their confidence and self-esteem.
Dr. Basilice's academic journey began at St. John's University, where he earned a BS in biology with an exceptional 3.9 GPA while participating in water polo, swim team, and tutoring university athletes. His outstanding performance on the DAT helped him secure his acceptance to the New York University School of Dentistry, where he completed the four-year program in just three years. After passing the National Dental Boards, Dr. Basilice completed a general surgical residency at Beekman Downtown Hospital in Manhattan, where he simultaneously established his first practice.
While serving as an admissions committee member at NYU and Beekman Downtown Hospital, Dr. Basilice reviewed over 1,000 applications and interviewed 250+ students. This experience honed his ability to pinpoint precisely what selective dental schools and dental residency programs seek in applicants.
Throughout his career, Dr. Basilice has built two successful dental practices—one on 5th Avenue in Manhattan and another in Suffolk County, Long Island—which he continues to operate today. His commitment to community service extended beyond dentistry when, following Hurricane Katrina, he founded EnviroSafe, a disaster recovery and relief company that has since assisted victims of other natural disasters including Superstorm Sandy. The company also specializes in virus decontamination for HVAC systems in schools and buildings. His humanitarian efforts have earned him recognition as a member of the FEMA National Council, the National Green Council, and the International Sustainability Council. He is also affiliated with the First and Tenth District National Dental Association and the National Association of Architects.
Dr. Basilice has dedicated over 20 years to mentoring and coaching aspiring dental professionals. He has maintained a comprehensive mentorship program in his practices, allowing pre-dental students and dental assistants to shadow him and explore the profession. His guidance has helped several individuals gain acceptance to top dental schools, including NYU, Stony Brook, the University of Connecticut, Boston University, the University at Buffalo, the University of Pennsylvania, and many others.
With Inspira Advantage, Dr. Basilice now offers his extensive expertise to guide prospective dental students through every stage of their journey—from undergraduate course selection and DAT preparation to application completion and interview preparation. His comprehensive approach, informed by his experience on admissions committees, provides students with invaluable insights into the dental school admissions process. Dr. Basilice is eager to support students in achieving their dream of becoming successful dental professionals who will continue the tradition of excellence and community service.
Dr. Joseph D.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. DePalo is a pediatric dentist specializing in treating medically complex patients and those with special health care needs. He earned a DMD degree from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency at the Ohio State University/Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where he also graduated with a Master’s degree. Dr. DePalo has 10 years of mentorship experience and has helped students get into top dental schools, including Harvard, UPenn, UConn, Boston University, Tufts, NYU, and Ohio State.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph D.
Title
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatric Dentistry
Education
Undergrad: Boston College
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Graduate School: Ohio State University
Fun Fact
Dr. DePalo has served as the lead content developer and student education coordinator for an INBDE test prep company.
Dr. DePalo is a pediatric dentist specializing in treating medically complex patients and those with special health care needs. He earned a DMD degree from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency at the Ohio State University/Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where he also graduated with a Master’s degree. Dr. DePalo has 10 years of mentorship experience and has helped students get into top dental schools, including Harvard, UPenn, UConn, Boston University, Tufts, NYU, and Ohio State.
Dr. DePalo’s higher education journey began at Boston College, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude with a degree in biology. He served as the President of the Boston College Pre-Dental Society, through which he founded a local oral health education program. His engagement in service extended beyond the field of oral health and across campus. He was inducted into the Alpha Sigma Nu Honor Society and the Order of the Cross and Crown, distinctions given to students demonstrating exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and records of service on campus. Upon graduating, Dr. DePalo was also awarded the Matthew R. Copithorne Scholarship, given to a Boston College senior exhibiting qualities of character, industry, and intelligence who plans to pursue graduate studies at Harvard or MIT.
During his undergraduate studies, Dr. DePalo was involved in various biopharmaceutical research projects with several biotechnology companies. He had several mentors and advisors who inspired him to make education an integral part of his career. To this day, these mentors continue to inspire his growth as an educator.
At the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dr. DePalo conducted research on oral graft-versus-host disease and was awarded multiple distinctions for his academic excellence and community involvement. Dr. DePalo’s honors include the ADEA/GlaxoSmithKline Preventive Dentistry Scholarship, the Dental Trade Alliance Foundation Dental Student Scholarship, and induction into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society. He graduated cum laude from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine with Honors in research.
Following dental school, Dr. DePalo completed his residency in pediatric dentistry and earned an MS at the Ohio State University/Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where he was named Chief Resident. His Master’s thesis on silver diamine fluoride earned him the Sunstar Clinical Research Award, the Delta Dental Foundation Master’s Thesis Award, and the Sunstar/AAPD Post-Graduate Research Fellowship. He also received the Dr. Paul E. Boyle Award for excellence in oral pathology and the AAPD Predoctoral Student Award for promise in the field of pediatric dentistry.
Dr. DePalo is deeply passionate about preparing the next generation of dental professionals. As a former resident advisor for undergraduates, DMD, MD, and PhD students, Dr. DePalo has vast experience as a mentor. He understands and respects the uniqueness of every applicant and takes pride in helping students make this the foundation of their application.
Dr. DePalo’s consulting style is warm and welcoming, adapted to the needs of each applicant, and promotes the well-being of the student. He strives to make each interaction goal-oriented and informative, while ultimately helping applicants navigate the nuances of dental school admissions.
Dr. Joseph H.
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Hendrix is a physician leader specializing in anesthesiology and pain management, with 11+ years of clinical practice and leadership experience. He has eight years of admissions experience, serving on the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern admissions committees. Dr. Hendrix currently serves as Medical Director and Principal Investigator at Worldwide Clinical Trials, one of the top 10 global contract research organizations.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph H.
Title
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Auburn University
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Graduate School: University of Texas at Dallas
Fun Fact
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Hendrix demonstrates a commitment to global health through volunteer surgical missions with organizations like Solid Rock International and Health Volunteers Overseas.
Dr. Hendrix is a physician leader specializing in anesthesiology and pain management, with 11+ years of clinical practice and leadership experience. He has eight years of admissions experience, serving on the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern admissions committees. Dr. Hendrix currently serves as Medical Director and Principal Investigator at Worldwide Clinical Trials, one of the top 10 global contract research organizations.
Dr. Hendrix started his higher education journey by earning a BS in biomedical sciences from Auburn University. He earned an MD at the University of Michigan Medical School on a full merit scholarship, followed by residency training in anesthesiology and fellowships in pain medicine and cardiothoracic anesthesiology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He recently earned dual executive master's degrees in healthcare leadership and management from the University of Texas at Dallas, graduating as a scholar with high distinction.
His expertise spans clinical research, medical education, and healthcare quality improvement. He has held leadership positions at major institutions, including the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and has served on multiple national committees, including the Vascularized Composite Allograft Transplantation Committee for UNOS, and advisory roles with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Dr. Hendrix is board-certified in both anesthesiology and pain medicine and holds numerous professional certifications, including Certified Physician Executive (CPE), Certified Principal Investigator (CPI), and Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ). His research has been published in leading medical journals, with significant contributions to understanding cardiovascular physiology, pain management, and perioperative care.
With 12+ years of coaching and mentoring experience, informed by eight years serving on admissions committees and as an interviewer at the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern. During his tenure, Dr. Hendrix reviewed 800+ applications and was involved in the decision-making process.
Dr. Hendrix remains active in medical education and serves as a mentor to the next generation of physicians while continuing to advance the fields of anesthesiology and pain medicine through research and clinical excellence.
Dr. Joseph K.
University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Dr. Knox is a UCSF diagnostic radiology resident who also attended the UCSF School of Medicine. He was a member of the UCSF School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, where he reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, participated in applicant acceptance decisions, and served on UCSF’s diagnostic radiology admissions committee.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph K.
Title
University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Diagnostic Radiology
Education
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Medical School: University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Knox has a passion for international travel and has been to over 30 countries.
Dr. Knox is a UCSF diagnostic radiology resident who also attended the UCSF School of Medicine. He was a member of the UCSF School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, where he reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, participated in applicant acceptance decisions, and served on UCSF’s diagnostic radiology admissions committee.
Dr. Knox was raised in the Bay Area and graduated with honors from Northwestern University, majoring in biological sciences. During his time at Northwestern, Dr. Knox was actively involved in peer tutoring and bench research, culminating in the completion of an honors thesis. Following his graduation, he invested his skills in Alzheimer's research at the Gladstone Institute in San Francisco for two years before enrolling at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine.
In medical school, Dr. Knox continued to mentor and tutor undergraduate and medical students, and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He also completed a year-long fellowship during medical school to conduct multiple radiology research projects using semi-automated machine learning for the National Institutes of Health. He was awarded the Dean’s Prize for his research.
As a diagnostic radiology resident at UCSF, Dr. Knox displays a keen interest in academic radiology. He continues to mentor, serving as the resident liaison for the residency's Medical Student Teaching program. He has also served on the UCSF diagnostic radiology admissions committee as an application reviewer and interviewer. Additionally, Dr. Knox has tutored 50+ students and helped them succeed on their USMLE Step exams.
These personal and professional experiences have helped Dr. Knox develop a deep understanding of what top medical schools and residency programs seek in applicants, and he is eager to share his expert insights with students. He is passionate about coaching students and helping them maximize their potential as future medical professionals.
Dr. Joseph L.
Yale School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Ladines-Lim’s extensive educational background includes a BS from the University of Maryland, an MD from the Yale School of Medicine, and a PhD from MIT. He then completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Combined Residency at the University of Michigan and is currently an Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph L.
Title
Yale School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine/Pediatrics & Infectious Disease
Education
Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Graduate School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Fun Fact
Aside from reading Harry Potter to his son, Dr. Ladines-Lim enjoys fine dining, a good gin and tonic, running, and various podcasts.
Dr. Ladines-Lim’s extensive educational background includes a BS from the University of Maryland, an MD from the Yale School of Medicine, and a PhD from MIT. He then completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Combined Residency at the University of Michigan and is currently an Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
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.
Dr. Joseph T.
University of Wisconsin College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Thurston is a small animal general practitioner in Minnesota working at River Valley Veterinary Service. He attended the University of Wisconsin College of Veterinary Medicine, serving as Class President and Executive Board Member of his local Student American Veterinary Medical Association. He also served as the National Vice President of the Veterinary Business Management Association and as a student admissions ambassador at UWisconsin.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph T.
Title
University of Wisconsin College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Business Management/Ownership
Education
Undergrad: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Thurston enjoys Minnesota's outdoors year-round, from summer hiking to winter skiing. He and his wife cherish their rescue dog, Ole, whose endearing obliviousness provides constant amusement in their household.
Dr. Thurston is a small animal general practitioner in Minnesota working at River Valley Veterinary Service. He attended the University of Wisconsin College of Veterinary Medicine, serving as Class President and Executive Board Member of his local Student American Veterinary Medical Association. He also served as the National Vice President of the Veterinary Business Management Association and as a student admissions ambassador at UWisconsin.
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.
Dr. Joshua A.
Weill Cornell Medical College
Dr. Andjei graduated from Weill Cornell with High Distinction and service-related awards. There, he served on the admissions committee for three years as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. Dr. Andjei has served on numerous admission committees and advised many undergraduate and medical students through the medical school and residency admissions processes.
View Profile
Dr. Joshua A.
Title
Weill Cornell Medical College
Interests and Specialization
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School:Weill Cornell Medical College
Fun Fact
Dr. Andjei enjoys recreational sports leagues, playing bass, and creative writing. He recently started a vinyl music collection, has a deep fascination with sea turtles, and is actively learning to salsa dance.
Dr. Andjei graduated from Weill Cornell with High Distinction and service-related awards. There, he served on the admissions committee for three years as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. Dr. Andjei has served on numerous admission committees and advised many undergraduate and medical students through the medical school and residency admissions processes.
Dr. Andjei earned a degree in biomedical science with a focus on neuroscience from Cornell University before attending Weill Cornell. While in medical school, he played a pivotal role as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. This valuable experience sparked a keen interest in educational advising, mentorship, and academic support.
Prior to medical school, he honed these passions as an educational specialist for the New York Foundling, one of New York City's oldest and largest child welfare agencies. Dr. Andjei's dedication to education also led him to advise several undergraduate and medical students throughout their medical school and residency admissions processes.
In addition to his pursuits in education, Dr. Andjei actively contributes to the academic community as a reviewer for esteemed academic journals such as the Global Spine Journal and the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS). He also serves as a chief resident in orthopedic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Upon completion of his residency, he plans to extend his expertise further by pursuing a spine surgery fellowship at NYU.
Dr. Juan C.
Howard University College of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Dr. Castillo is a general dentist with over 17 years of clinical experience in private practice, with a primary focus on cosmetic and restorative dentistry. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Clemson University and graduated with a DDS from Howard University College of Dentistry, where he served on the admissions committee. Following dental school, he completed an AEGD residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry.
View Profile
Dr. Juan C.
Title
Howard University College of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry
Education
Undergrad: Clemson University
Dental School: Howard University College of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Dr. Castillo has two teenage daughters, who are by far his greatest accomplishments. Guiding them along their journey, both personally and academically, has made him a patient mentor and counselor, allowing him to see things from multiple perspectives.
Dr. Castillo is a general dentist with over 17 years of clinical experience in private practice, with a primary focus on cosmetic and restorative dentistry. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Clemson University and graduated with a DDS from Howard University College of Dentistry, where he served on the admissions committee. Following dental school, he completed an AEGD residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry.
After college, Dr. Castillo held a six-month research position at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry and then participated in the National Institutes of Health’s post-baccalaureate research program for one year. These experiences led him to apply and eventually gain acceptance to multiple dental schools, including Temple, NYU, and Howard University, where he ultimately earned his DDS. Dr. Castillo credits his clinical strength to his training at Howard, where working in an underserved area gave him and his classmates abundant opportunities to care for patients in need.
After dental school and residency, Dr. Castillo opened his first private practice and has since treated thousands of patients. He has worked as both a practice owner and associate dentist, managing all aspects of his clinics while providing high-quality care. Dr. Castillo currently leads his own clinic, Castillo Dental Studio in Pembroke Pines, where he manages a team of eight and cares for over 1,500 active patients.
While in dental school, Dr. Castillo served on the student admissions committee at Howard, where he evaluated many applications and interviewed candidates over two years. He played an active role in decision-making throughout the process and brings that admissions insight to his coaching today.
With years of coaching experience, Dr. Castillo has mentored students who have been accepted to top schools, including the University of Florida, the University of Miami, NYU, and Florida State University. Dr. Castillo’s passion for mentorship was inspired by his own experience as a mentee and the insightful guidance provided to him by his cousin, a renowned oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Dr. Castillo has a special eye for detail and is incredibly goal-oriented. He has witnessed the significant changes and technological advances that have changed the landscape of dentistry. He has taken a significant amount of continuing education hours worldwide and has a unique network of colleagues within the field. Dr Castillo continues to have his finger on the pulse and understands what is needed to be a successful dental school candidate. He believes in a personalized approach to consulting and finds supporting students on their admissions journeys to be incredibly rewarding.
Dr. Judith B.
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry
Master Advisor
Dr. Bayardo-Guzman is an associate dentist working in California’s Central Valley. She graduated with a DMD from Temple University’s Kornberg School of Dentistry, where she was a member of the Honors Prosthodontics Club. Her educational journey began at the University of California, Merced, where she was an active member of the pre-dental club and focused on community service in different organizations.
View Profile
Dr. Judith B.
Title
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
General Dentistry
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Merced
Dental School: Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Dr. Bayardo-Guzman is fluent in English and Spanish.
Dr. Bayardo-Guzman is an associate dentist working in California’s Central Valley. She graduated with a DMD from Temple University’s Kornberg School of Dentistry, where she was a member of the Honors Prosthodontics Club. Her educational journey began at the University of California, Merced, where she was an active member of the pre-dental club and focused on community service in different organizations.
Dr. Bayardo-Guzman also participated in multiple research projects for a marine biology research team at UC Merced. After graduating with a BS in human biology, she took two gap years to work as a substitute teacher before applying to dental school.
Dr. Bayardo-Guzman's passion for mentoring and guiding others stems from her experiences as an immigrant and first-generation college student. She understands the challenges students face when navigating the complex world of higher education and is committed to providing them with the support and guidance they need to succeed. Her experience as a translator and involvement with post-baccalaureate students during her final two years of dental school has fueled her desire to help aspiring dentists achieve their dreams.
As a mentor, Dr. Bayardo-Guzman's greatest strength is her ability to empathize with and guide students through the overwhelming dental school application process. She excels in helping students identify their strengths, craft compelling applications, and prepare for interviews. As an admissions coach, she focuses on establishing a one-on-one connection with her students, offering a unique approach tailored to each person's circumstances.
Born in Mexico, Dr. Bayardo-Guzman moved to the United States with her family at a young age. Growing up in rural California, she faced many challenges as an immigrant, including learning a new language and translating for her parents. Despite this, she remained active in various clubs and organizations and was committed to her academic excellence, eventually discovering her passion for dental medicine.
As a dentist, Dr. Bayardo-Guzman has had the opportunity to express her compassion and care by volunteering to work in non-profit events that provide healthcare for those who do not have access. She makes an effort to learn new techniques and keep up with new methods and information in the field. Dr. Bayardo-Guzman knows that the best way to be a good professional is to continue to be a lifelong learner. She continues to look for ways to grow even after becoming a professional.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Bayardo-Guzman focuses on establishing a one-on-one connection with her students. She believes that each person is different and that unique approaches are important for each person’s circumstance. Dr. Bayardo-Guzman is an adept communicator and encourages students to see her as part of their support system. With her compassion and patience, she is committed to guiding students in this phase of their professional journey.
Dr. Julia T.
Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Troncoso is a veterinarian specializing in small animal, exotic animal, and wildlife medicine who currently practices at Citrus Park Animal, Bird and Exotics Hospital. A Florida native, she earned her DVM from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine after completing a Master's in veterinary shelter and forensic medicine at the University of Florida. Students she has coached have been accepted to top vet schools, including UF, MSU, OSU, Auburn, Virginia-Maryland, the University of Arizona, and others.
View Profile
Dr. Julia T.
Title
Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Small/Large Animal Medicine, Zoo and Exotic Wildlife Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of South Florida
Veterinary School: Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: University of Florida
Fun Fact
Dr. Troncoso enjoys spending time with her animals and family. Her love for all animals is evident in her willingness to see any patient who comes through the clinic doors, whether they are furry, feathered, scaled, or hooved.
Dr. Troncoso is a veterinarian specializing in small animal, exotic animal, and wildlife medicine who currently practices at Citrus Park Animal, Bird and Exotics Hospital. A Florida native, she earned her DVM from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine after completing a Master's in veterinary shelter and forensic medicine at the University of Florida. Students she has coached have been accepted to top vet schools, including UF, MSU, OSU, Auburn, Virginia-Maryland, the University of Arizona, and others.
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.
Dr. Junho A.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
Dr. Ahn is an orthopedic surgery resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where he has spent two years on the selection committee, interviewing and selecting applicants for residency positions. His research experience began in high school and has since led to the publication of over 30 PubMed-indexed articles, book chapters, and presentations at national and international conferences.
View Profile
Dr. Junho A.
Title
University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
Interests and Specialization
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School:University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
Fun Fact
In his free time, Dr. Ahn enjoys playing golf, bouldering, and going to Dallas sports events.
Dr. Ahn is an orthopedic surgery resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where he has spent two years on the selection committee, interviewing and selecting applicants for residency positions. His research experience began in high school and has since led to the publication of over 30 PubMed-indexed articles, book chapters, and presentations at national and international conferences.
Dr. Ahn's academic journey began with a strong foundation in science and nature, which he has carried with him throughout his career. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a BA in public health. Before attending medical school, Dr. Ahn worked as a Post-Baccalaureate Research Fellow at the National Institutes of Health.
Afterward, he went on the earn his MD from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He also enjoys exploring disciplines outside of the natural sciences, such as philosophy, business, law, and sociology. His undergraduate major in public health has shown him how these different schools of thought intersect and impact our lives and well-being.
As a member of the selection committee at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dr. Ahn has gained valuable experience in interviewing and selecting applicants for residency positions. This experience has given him a unique perspective on the application process and the qualities that make a successful applicant. Currently, Dr. Ahn is working in orthopedics to improve patient quality of life. He hopes to continue this work in an academic setting, where he can teach and mentor the next generation of medical professionals.
His passion for education is evident in his commitment to mentoring others, which began during his undergraduate studies and continued through medical school. As a mentor, Dr. Ahn believes that each applicant has a unique perspective and story that led them to medicine. He is dedicated to understanding students' backgrounds and motivations, allowing him to identify their strengths and maximize their potential.
With his exceptional research experience, passion for education, and commitment to mentorship, Dr. Ahn is well-positioned to guide aspiring medical students through the challenges of medical school admissions and beyond. His approach is supportive, insightful, and tailored to each student's needs, ensuring that they receive the guidance necessary to succeed in their pursuit of a career in medicine.
Dr. Kaila D.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Daniels attended the University of California, Los Angeles, where she majored in human biology and society before attending the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. She achieved a remarkable undergraduate GPA of 3.95 and has interned at the Ronald Reagan Hospital Care Extender Program.
View Profile
Dr. Kaila D.
Title
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
General Dentistry, Prosthodontics
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Dental School: Harvard School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Daniels is all about self-care! She loves to do anything that will benefit her mind and body. From spin classes to pottery classes, Dr. Daniels is huge on taking time to destress.
Dr. Daniels attended the University of California, Los Angeles, where she majored in human biology and society before attending the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. She achieved a remarkable undergraduate GPA of 3.95 and has interned at the Ronald Reagan Hospital Care Extender Program.
From being an early childhood education aide to being a student server in one of UCLA’s campus restaurants, Dr. Daniels spent her time in undergrad juggling a range of service activities, volunteering, academics, work, and fitness. After being accepted to several prestigious dental schools, she chose to pursue her DMD at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. Her academic achievements and diverse experiences position her as a highly knowledgeable and effective counselor for aspiring dental students.
Dr. Daniels is committed to being the mentor she wishes she had, providing comprehensive guidance to aspiring dental students as they navigate the complexities of the application process. Mentoring and advising pre-dental students are some of Dr. Daniels’ greatest passions. Her own experiences and challenges throughout her journey to and through dental school motivate her to help others achieve their dreams in dentistry.
As a coach, Dr. Daniels’ strength lies in her ability to streamline the dental school application process, making it structured yet adaptable to each student's needs. She combines clear, step-by-step guidance with flexibility, adjusting plans as necessary while keeping students on track. Dr. Daniels’ hands-on, encouraging approach builds confidence, helping students tackle challenges and refine every aspect of their application. Dr. Daniels’ dedication to mentorship, comprehensive understanding of the dental school application process, and empathy make her an invaluable source of knowledge for pre-dental students.
Dr. Karam A.
University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Ashouri completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles General Medical Center. He graduated with an MD from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Southern California. He has four years of experience serving on the USC Keck admissions committee, where he reviewed applications and interviewed candidates.
View Profile
Dr. Karam A.
Title
University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Southern California
Medical School: University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Ashouri is fluent in Arabic and Spanish. He enjoys exploring new technologies, organizing community health initiatives, and unwinding through outdoor activities like golf, snowboarding, and camping with friends and family.
Dr. Ashouri completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles General Medical Center. He graduated with an MD from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Southern California. He has four years of experience serving on the USC Keck admissions committee, where he reviewed applications and interviewed candidates.
Dr. Ashouri also served as an admissions coach at the USC Keck School of Medicine, where he facilitated interactive, case-based learning sessions that empowered medical students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. His background in admissions, coupled with his years of experience in MCAT tutoring, gives Dr. Ashouri keen insights into what top medical programs seek at every stage of the admissions process.
Before medical school, Dr. Ashouri volunteered as an EMT with Royal Ambulatory Services. He takes pride in contributing to community and service initiatives, including his work on a medical device design team and assisting volunteer populations through the International Rescue Committee.
Dr. Ashouri has published 17 manuscripts, primarily focusing on hematology and oncology. He has led influential studies on immunoglobulins and CXCL5 as biomarkers in immunotherapy-treated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), explored AXL and necroptosis signaling in colorectal cancer, and conducted research on acute lymphocytic leukemia, resulting in multiple first-author posters at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the American Society of Hematology. Dr. Ashouri’s work resulted in him receiving two ASCO Conquer Cancer Merit Awards. He has also presented findings on non-small cell lung cancer with the American Association for Cancer Research and regularly serves as a manuscript reviewer for several academic journals.
Throughout his training, Dr. Ashouri has demonstrated academic excellence, clinical leadership, and a strong commitment to impactful research. He uses his unique admissions and clinical experiences to coach students in crafting compelling narratives and excel in the admissions process. Known for his collaborative, student-centered approach, Dr. Ashouri is dedicated to helping future physicians pursue their goals with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Ashouri’s strengths as an admissions counselor stem from his diverse experiences in research, curriculum development, and medical school admissions. He quickly identifies each applicant’s strengths and weaknesses, providing focused, actionable feedback throughout the application process. By drawing on his deep involvement in academic medicine and his experience reviewing and interviewing candidates, he offers clear, individualized mentorship, helping every applicant uncover their unique story and present their best self. Students value Dr. Ashouri’s sharp insight, talent for clarifying complex topics, and ongoing support.
Dr. Ashouri’s wide-ranging experiences in research, teaching, clinical practice, and admissions give him a comprehensive understanding of what makes applicants stand out. He is committed to helping students uncover their unique path and present their most competitive selves in the medical school and residency application processes.
Dr. Katherine M.
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Munoz attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine before becoming a resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years of experience in advising and tutoring students and five years in selecting, interviewing, and ranking applicants for medical school and residency. She currently sits on the admissions committee for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin.
View Profile
Dr. Katherine M.
Title
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Education
Undergrad:California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Munoz played competitive softball for more than 10 years and still plays recreationally. She enjoys spending time reading, cooking, going to concerts, gardening, and training her doberman.
Dr. Munoz attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine before becoming a resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years of experience in advising and tutoring students and five years in selecting, interviewing, and ranking applicants for medical school and residency. She currently sits on the admissions committee for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin.
Dr. Munoz graduated summa cum laude from California State University San Marcos with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry after being recruited to play softball for the university before attending Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Her impressive performance during the residency application process led to more than 20 interviews in her chosen specialty of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Ultimately, Dr. Munoz matched at a top 10 program in the country for this specialty, the University of Wisconsin, where she worked towards a fellowship in microsurgical reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Munoz's passion for advising and working with students stems from her own experiences and challenges throughout medical school and residency application processes. As the first in her family to graduate with a college degree, she overcame numerous obstacles in the preparation for and admission to medical school and residency, from which she learned immensely. This personal journey has fueled her desire to make the process more streamlined, straightforward, efficient, and successful for future students. She draws on her extensive training in communication, teaching, and leadership to guide students with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Munoz’s 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees, which she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals. She takes a flexible and student-centered approach, adapting quickly to each student’s needs and adjusting plans as necessary. Dr. Munoz fosters a friendly, approachable, and conversational atmosphere, ensuring students feel empowered throughout their journey. With a focus on positivity and patience, she builds students’ confidence by celebrating their progress and ensuring they fully understand the next steps.
Dr. Keith P.
University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Poulsen is a board-certified veterinarian with over 25 years of mentorship experience and more than six years of admissions committee service at top veterinary schools. He currently serves as the Director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (WVDL) and holds a faculty appointment in medical sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, where he also earned his DVM and PhD degrees.
View Profile
Dr. Keith P.
Title
University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Large Animal Internal Medicine, Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases
Education
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Veterinary School: University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Fun Fact
In addition to his public health work, Dr. Poulsen and his wife, Dr. Beth Poulsen, own and operate a companion animal veterinary practice in the Madison metro area.
Dr. Poulsen is a board-certified veterinarian with over 25 years of mentorship experience and more than six years of admissions committee service at top veterinary schools. He currently serves as the Director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (WVDL) and holds a faculty appointment in medical sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, where he also earned his DVM and PhD degrees.
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.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Asli P.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Master Advisor
Asli has a robust background in research and tutoring, serving as an academic coach, tutor for various science subjects, and founder of a pre-health admissions company. She is dedicated to helping students boost their DAT scores to succeed on their path to dental school.
View Profile
Asli P.
Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Master Advisor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Asli has extensive tutoring experience and excels at crafting personalized study plans that cater to each student’s strengths and weaknesses. Her effective DAT support has played a crucial role in students successfully gaining acceptance to dental school in their first application cycle!
Education
Undergrad: Stony Brook University
Dental School: Harvard University
Fun Fact
Outside of dental school, Asli is an active food blogger on Instagram and a Boston-based food influencer. She also maintains a passion for health and wellness, prioritizing fitness activities such as pilates, yoga, and running.
Asli has a robust background in research and tutoring, serving as an academic coach, tutor for various science subjects, and founder of a pre-health admissions company. She is dedicated to helping students boost their DAT scores to succeed on their path to dental school.
Prior to pursuing her DMD at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Asli graduated summa cum laude from Stony Brook University with a BS in biology and developmental genetics, along with a minor in health, medicine, and society. During her time at Stony Brook, she conducted research in oral biology, pathology, and anthropology.
Asli's passion for tutoring began in high school and continued beyond college. In college, she served as an academic coach, teaching organizational and study skills, and as a tutor for courses such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, and biology. As President of Stony Brook’s Pre-Dental Society, she initiated a mentorship program for aspiring dentists. In her senior year, she founded a pre-health admissions company, offering mentorship to students applying to PA, medical, and dental schools. Currently, she also works as a DAT tutor.
Having received a 25AA on the DAT, Asli feels prepared to work with students to boost their scores and has extensive experience tutoring using the DAT Booster and Bootcamp interfaces. She excels at taking a student-centered approach to tutoring. She customizes her methods to capitalize on each student’s strengths and address their weaknesses, ensuring they can tackle the DAT. Asli adopts a student-centered approach and customizes her methods to leverage each student’s strengths and target their weaknesses effectively.
Asmaa M.
University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Before attending the UC Berkeley - UCSF Joint Medical Program, Asmaa graduated from Indiana University. She graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a Master's in health & medical sciences before pursuing her MD at the University of California, San Francisco. With eight years of tutoring experience, Asmaa has helped test-takers score as high as 520 on the MCAT.
View Profile
Asmaa M.
University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Asmaa scored 131 on both the Psych/Soc and CARS sections on the MCAT.
Education
Undergrad: Indiana University
Graduate School: University of California, Berkeley
Medical School: University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Asmaa enjoys traveling, reading fiction, playing tennis, attending hot pilates classes, and discovering new food spots. If she’s not tutoring, you can find her soaking up the sun at the beach with friends and a matcha in hand.
Before attending the UC Berkeley - UCSF Joint Medical Program, Asmaa graduated from Indiana University. She graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a Master's in health & medical sciences before pursuing her MD at the University of California, San Francisco. With eight years of tutoring experience, Asmaa has helped test-takers score as high as 520 on the MCAT.
After graduating from Indiana University, Asmaa spent a year abroad studying biochemistry at the University of Oxford before attending the UC Berkeley - UCSF Joint Medical Program. After completing her undergraduate education with a 4.0 GPA, she worked on various research projects investigating the pathogenesis of Uterine Leiomyoma, gut-brain axis etiologies for obesity, and comparative differences of implicit bias in US and UK healthcare systems. These experiences nurtured her passion for mentoring students.
After graduating, Asmaa spent a year working as a medical associate at Roche Diagnostics and volunteering at Trinity Free Clinic in her hometown. While working on her master’s thesis, Asmaa focused on identifying admission rates, readmission rates, and risk factors for dermatology-related hospitalizations for those experiencing homelessness in the U.S. This research reflects her dedication to addressing health disparities and promoting health equity, further showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact in the field of medicine.
Asmaa has received several awards, including the Imana Scholarship, the UC Berkeley PHAA Diversity Award, the Dermatology Foundation Diversity Research Supplement Award, and a UCSF merit-based scholarship. She has presented research at national conferences such as the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology ARVO and the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology.
Asmaa is a social justice-centered patient care and public health advocate, having served as an executive board member of multiple organizations, including White Coats for Black Lives, Human Rights Collaborative, People's Program Clinic, Celebrating the Skin We're In, and the Muslim Medical Student Association. Her research is centered on dermatologic hospitalizations among those experiencing homelessness, and she is also passionate about global health, medical education, and social justice advocacy.
As a tutor, Asmaa’s strengths encompass her leadership and advocacy skills, which have been honed through her diverse experiences and interests. These qualities allow her to guide students in navigating the complex MCAT preparation process.
Audra
GRE Expert
View Profile
Audra
GRE Expert
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Full-time GRE tutor
Education
Undergrad: St. John's College
Fun Fact
I perform with the sketch comedy group Punchline Loading in New York City.
Audra is a GMAT/GRE tutor based in Brooklyn, New York. With over six years of experience teaching hundreds of students both one-on-one and in the classroom, Audra helps business school and graduate school applicants maximize their testing performance with personalized instruction focused on their areas of need. Audra has achieved a 98th-percentile score of 750 on the GMAT and a 335/340 on the GRE. She loves sharing her knowledge and helping each client reach their potential!
Audra received her B.A. in Liberal Arts from St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland, in 2013. The degree is equivalent to a double major in Philosophy and the History of Mathematics and Science and a double minor in Classics and Comparative Literature. She is currently attending the online Master of Computer and Information Technology program at the University of Pennsylvania. Audra enjoys reading and performing with the sketch comedy group Punchline Loading... in New York City in her free time.
Ayush P.
Harvard Medical School
Director of Tutoring
Ayush has over five years of experience in pre-medical tutoring/advising, helping students receive top scores on the MCAT and gain admission into top medical schools around the country. Personally, Ayush has scored in the 99th percentile on the MCAT and in the 96th percentile on USMLE Step 1.
View Profile
Ayush P.
Harvard Medical School
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Ayush has tutored and/or coached over 50 students in the MCAT and medical school admission process, with a 100% success rate in helping students achieve their dream MCAT scores and gain admission to medical school!
Education
Undergrad: Drexel University
Medical School: Harvard Medical School
Fun Fact
Ayush spends a good portion of his free time exercising and playing sports, including volleyball, rock climbing, and weightlifting. He also loves art and music and previously competed on a semi-professional dance team. He is a big foodie on the path to becoming an amateur chef!
Ayush has over five years of experience in pre-medical tutoring/advising, helping students receive top scores on the MCAT and gain admission into top medical schools around the country. Personally, Ayush has scored in the 99th percentile on the MCAT and in the 96th percentile on USMLE Step 1.
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.
Ben V.
The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry
Director of Tutoring
As an experienced DAT tutor, Ben uses his high DAT scores and personalized study plans to help students excel on the exam. His approach focuses on personalization, balance, and volume, ensuring that each student maximizes their potential on test day.
View Profile
Ben V.
The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Ben has a study plan that can maximize time and effort, as evidenced by the fact that he was able to jump from a 20 AA to a 26 AA in under two months. He also has extensive experience in tutoring General Chemistry at the undergraduate level, as he tutored for three semesters at the University of Kentucky, where each class had well over 100 students.
Education
Undergrad: The University of Kentucky
Dental School: The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Ben grew up on a family farm in Shearer Valley, Kentucky, where they raised grass-fed cattle and grew corn and soybeans. The farm has been in the family for over 100 years!
As an experienced DAT tutor, Ben uses his high DAT scores and personalized study plans to help students excel on the exam. His approach focuses on personalization, balance, and volume, ensuring that each student maximizes their potential on test day.
Ben scored an impressive 26 AA and 26 Total Science on his own DAT, including a perfect 30 in Reading Comprehension. Remarkably, he achieved these scores with just over two months of studying. His success is a testament to the effectiveness of his personalized study game plan.
Ben specializes in Reading Comprehension and Natural Sciences, particularly General Chemistry. His perfect reading score and high science scores are a result of his strategic study methods and his experience in both learning and teaching chemistry at his undergraduate institution.
Ben understands that each student has unique strengths and challenges. By working closely with students, he tailors their study plans to enhance their performance. His tutoring experience has consistently led to score increases for his students on the actual DAT compared to their practice tests.
Ben’s study plan emphasizes three key elements: personalization, balance, and volume. He helps students understand that excelling on the DAT requires more than just content knowledge; it often involves adjusting personal study habits. Ben crafts individualized study schedules that maximize the efficiency of the study programs his students use.
In addition to tutoring the DAT, Ben has extensive experience tutoring undergraduate general chemistry. His background in education equips him to work with students from various backgrounds. With Inspira Advantage, Ben aims to expand his reach and help more prospective candidates achieve their academic goals.
Ben is committed to helping students tailor their studying to perform their best on test day. He looks forward to working with everyone at Inspira and guiding students toward their desired DAT scores.
Benjamin S.
Brigham Young University
Master Tutor
Benjamin graduated cum laude with a BS in microbiology from Brigham Young University. He has worked with students through two national MCAT prep companies, helping students master dense content to refine their test-day strategy. He has also served as a teaching assistant in molecular biology. Students Benjamin has tutored have increased their MCAT score by an average of 8 points.
View Profile
Benjamin S.
Brigham Young University
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Benjamin has helped numerous students achieve scores of 515 or higher on the MCAT.
Education
Undergrad: Brigham Young University
Fun Fact
Benjamin is a proud new father. He enjoys spending time with his wife and baby son, cooking together, watching shows, and catching naps when possible. He also enjoys fishing and exercising.
Benjamin graduated cum laude with a BS in microbiology from Brigham Young University. He has worked with students through two national MCAT prep companies, helping students master dense content to refine their test-day strategy. He has also served as a teaching assistant in molecular biology. Students Benjamin has tutored have increased their MCAT score by an average of 8 points.
Benjamin’s academic accomplishments include multiple scholarships and awards, such as the Jau-Fei Chen Scholarship, Lewis Medical Foundation Scholarship, and the Math Department Excellence Award. He was also awarded a half-tuition scholarship at Brigham Young University. Benjamin has also worked as an urgent care medical assistant, providing him with both tutoring and clinical perspectives to share with aspiring physicians.
As a lead researcher in skeletal muscle physiology, Benjamin’s published abstracts and first-author manuscripts demonstrate his expertise in experimental design and scientific communication—key strengths he brings to tutoring, particularly for the MCAT’s Chem/Phys and Bio/Biochem sections. His research experience allows him to teach students how to break down graphs, experimental passages, and data-heavy problems with confidence and clarity.
What sets Benjamin apart is his ability to combine goal-setting and structure with genuine encouragement and flexibility. He listens carefully, adapts to each student’s learning style, and meets them where they are, whether they need intensive content support, strategic test-taking help, or an accountability partner. He’s especially passionate about helping students stay on track with custom study schedules and practical, actionable strategies.
Benjamin’s love for tutoring stems from the mentorship he received during his own pre-med journey. For him, seeing students grow in confidence and achieve their goals is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.
Bethany O.
Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons
Master Tutor
Bethany is an exceptional and experienced tutor MCAT tutor with a proven track record of academic excellence and a passion for guiding aspiring medical students to success. Her impressive personal score, coupled with her strong performance in the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior sections, makes her an invaluable resource for students looking to excel in the MCAT.
View Profile
Bethany O.
Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Bethany excels at tutoring the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior sections of the MCAT.
Education
Undergrad:Columbia University
Medical School: Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons
Fun Fact
In her free time, Bethany loves to run outdoors, go on long walks through the city, bake, and read!
Bethany is an exceptional and experienced tutor MCAT tutor with a proven track record of academic excellence and a passion for guiding aspiring medical students to success. Her impressive personal score, coupled with her strong performance in the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior sections, makes her an invaluable resource for students looking to excel in the MCAT.
During her college years, Bethany volunteered extensively as a tutor and mentor. This passion for teaching and guiding students continued into her medical school years, where she actively participated in Columbia's Student Success Network, providing support and guidance to her fellow medical students. During her studies at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, she earned firsthand experience navigating the challenging medical school admissions process.
As an MCAT tutor, Bethany brings knowledge and experience to her students. She leverages her personal success with the medical school admissions process to provide targeted, individualized support that goes beyond mere content mastery. Her tutoring approach emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are important for success on the MCAT and in medical school. She works closely with each student to create personalized study plans that optimize their learning efficiency and comprehension, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the challenges of the exam.
Beyond her academic record, Bethany's passion for tutoring stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of education. She recognizes that by equipping the next generation of medical professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed, she can make a lasting impact on the field of medicine.
Bradley
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
View Profile
Bradley
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Medical College Admissions Test Instructor
Education
Undergrad: Utah State University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Bradley possesses the unique skill of being able to ride a unicycle.
Bradley completed his undergraduate studies in Biochemistry at Utah State University and is currently a medical student at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Rochester. During his undergraduate years, Bradley was involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, including being a member of the university’s Cheer Squad, volunteering in hospitals, and leading youth humanitarian trips to the Kingdom of Tonga. Before attending medical school, he took on the role of a high school biology teacher for a year while applying to medical programs.
As a medical student, Bradley is passionate about learning from and working with others, benefiting greatly from the guidance of older medical students and residents. He has showcased his strengths by actively participating in clinical research, which has led to multiple first and middle-author publications. He enjoys collaborating with others and is dedicated to contributing to advancements in the medical field.
Bradley is enthusiastic about helping future medical students achieve their best MCAT scores. He has a wealth of experience as an MCAT tutor, privately tutoring students and leading group sessions. As a tutor, his strengths include science content and test-taking skills and strategies.
His tutoring has helped many students achieve medical school acceptance.
Brandon G.
Texas Tech Health Science Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Before starting his medical education at the Texas Tech Health Science Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Brandon obtained a dual Master's degree in business administration and healthcare administration from the University of Houston. Brandon has eight years of tutoring experience and has guided approximately 500 students to success on the MCAT.
View Profile
Brandon G.
Texas Tech Health Science Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Brandon has helped around 500 students get into medical school through MCAT tutoring.
Education
Undergrad:University of Charleston
Graduate School: University of Houston
Medical School:Texas Tech Health Science Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Brandon has two puppies named Quinlan and Luca. They are Italian Water Dogs, yet despite their breed, hate the water.
Before starting his medical education at the Texas Tech Health Science Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Brandon obtained a dual Master's degree in business administration and healthcare administration from the University of Houston. Brandon has eight years of tutoring experience and has guided approximately 500 students to success on the MCAT.
Before attending medical school, Brandon’s higher education journey began at the University of Charleston in West Virginia, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in biology while playing Division 1 Men's Volleyball. His exceptional achievements, both in academics and athletics, were recognized when he was selected as the President's Outstanding Senior of the Year.
Brandon's approach to MCAT preparation is characterized by his comprehensive understanding of the exam's content and structure. This knowledge allows him to craft personalized study plans that are tailored to each student's individual strengths and areas for improvement. His teaching methodology goes beyond mere content mastery, placing a strong emphasis on developing strategic test-taking skills that enable students to navigate the complexities of the MCAT confidently. Students he works with see an average score increase of 10-15 points.
What truly distinguishes Brandon as an MCAT tutor is his commitment to creating a supportive learning environment. He is dedicated to growing a deep understanding of core concepts while simultaneously nurturing critical thinking skills. Through his collaborative and targeted tutoring approach, Brandon empowers aspiring medical professionals to reach their full potential and excel in the highly competitive landscape of medical school admissions.
Brandon's success as an MCAT tutor is evident in the achievements of students that he’s worked with. His ability to combine content knowledge with test-taking strategies, all within a supportive learning framework, has proven to be a winning formula for MCAT preparation. His dedication to student success extends beyond just achieving high scores; he aims to build confidence and develop skills that will serve students well throughout their medical education and careers.
Bretton B.
Concordia College
Master Tutor
With over 500 successful students and thousands of hours invested in understanding, mastering, and simplifying the MCAT, Bretton has established himself as a leader in the field of test preparation. His extensive experience in providing online tutoring has allowed him to curate a world-class experience for each student, ensuring that they receive the personalized guidance and support needed to succeed.
View Profile
Bretton B.
Concordia College
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Bretton has taught over 1,000 MCAT students. He uses his teaching experience and knowledge as a PhD student at the University Of Michigan Medical School to help students achieve exceptional 15+ point growth.
Education
Undergrad: Concordia College
Fun Fact
Bretton is based out of Minnesota, where he was educated on a full-ride scholarship at Concordia College in Minnesota.
With over 500 successful students and thousands of hours invested in understanding, mastering, and simplifying the MCAT, Bretton has established himself as a leader in the field of test preparation. His extensive experience in providing online tutoring has allowed him to curate a world-class experience for each student, ensuring that they receive the personalized guidance and support needed to succeed.
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.
Brian
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
View Profile
Brian
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Medical Student at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Notre Dame
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Brian has been to 14 countries and wants to continue to add to that list.
Brian, originally from Massachusetts, attended the University of Notre Dame where he majored in Science Pre-professional Studies and had a minor in History. During this time, he conducted research in the Moral and Adolescent Psychology lab, volunteered St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, and had a few internship opportunities like working for a Member of the UK Parliament. After graduating in 2021, he began conducting research in an Anesthesiology Lab at Mayo Clinic. Brian is currently a first-year medical student at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Rochester, MN, where he is pursuing his interest in surgery.
Carrie G.
UT Health School of Dentistry at Houston
Carrie is a dedicated dental admissions advisor and DAT tutor with a passion for helping aspiring dental professionals achieve their dreams. With a blend of academic excellence, research experience, and an athletic background, Carrie brings a wealth of expertise to guide candidates through the competitive admissions process.
View Profile
Carrie G.
UT Health School of Dentistry at Houston
Tutoring Claim to Fame
As a tutor, Carrie brings her research expertise to the table, offering students deeper insights into the subject matter. With a track record of academic excellence and research prowess, she is committed to empowering students to excel in their studies.
Education
Undergrad: The University of Texas at Tyler
Dental School: UT Health School of Dentistry at Houston
Fun Fact
Carrie played soccer in college, and she has a French Bulldog named Frankie.
Carrie is a dedicated dental admissions advisor and DAT tutor with a passion for helping aspiring dental professionals achieve their dreams. With a blend of academic excellence, research experience, and an athletic background, Carrie brings a wealth of expertise to guide candidates through the competitive admissions process.
Carrie's educational journey began with her graduating magna cum laude with a BS in biochemistry. She then studied at the University of Texas School of Dentistry with a background in orthodontic research. This background, combined with her experiences as a former collegiate soccer player, has equipped her with exceptional work ethic, time management skills, and effective leadership abilities, which she leverages to guide candidates through the demanding process of preparing for dental school.
With an impressive DAT score of 23, including standout performances in reading comprehension (28) and organic chemistry (24), Carrie brings firsthand knowledge and expertise to DAT preparation. Whether guiding students through content review, test-taking strategies, or personal statement development, Carrie is committed to helping each individual reach their full potential and achieve success in their dental career aspirations.
In her approach to tutoring, Carrie embodies a blend of directness, professionalism, and honesty. Drawing from her background as a collegiate athlete, she fosters a team mentality, viewing each applicant as a valuable teammate in the pursuit of their dental school aspirations.
Carrie's aim is not just to guide applicants through the DAT but to empower them to master all of its concepts. She prioritizes open communication and transparency, providing candid insights and constructive criticism when needed. Her ultimate goal is to equip applicants with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve their desired score.
Catherine H.
University of Texas San Antonio Long School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Catherine graduated from the University of Dallas before attending the University of Texas San Antonio Long School of Medicine. She has extensive tutoring experience working with students at various levels, including instructing students in general and organic chemistry, biology, and biochemistry as a teaching assistant, providing private MCAT tutoring, and guiding medical students through USMLE preparation.
View Profile
Catherine H.
University of Texas San Antonio Long School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Catherine scored 523 on the MCAT and achieved 265 on USMLE Step 2.
Education
Undergrad: University of Dallas
Medical School: University of Texas San Antonio Long School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Outside of medicine, Catherine enjoys crocheting her own clothes, oil painting, and playing piano.
Catherine graduated from the University of Dallas before attending the University of Texas San Antonio Long School of Medicine. She has extensive tutoring experience working with students at various levels, including instructing students in general and organic chemistry, biology, and biochemistry as a teaching assistant, providing private MCAT tutoring, and guiding medical students through USMLE preparation.
Catherine graduated with a BS with a near-perfect 4.0 GPA before attending medical school. She has a strong research background in hepatology with Stanford Medicine and is currently completing a research year at Rush Midwest Orthopaedics, working on projects related to sleep apnea and shoulder arthroscopy, ACL reconstruction with BMAC, and sports injury outcomes in MLS athletes.
As an MCAT tutor, Catherine has a deep understanding of test content that allows her to break down complex topics and provide strategic test-taking advice tailored to each student’s needs. Catherine’s teaching philosophy is highly personalized, focusing on what each student struggles with rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. Her background as a competitive swimmer (former junior Olympic athlete, varsity swimmer, and collegiate competitor) and classically trained pianist has shaped her discipline, attention to detail, and ability to help students build skills with teachable components.
As a tutor, Catherine is realistic, supportive, and committed to helping students achieve their MCAT goals!
Catie M.
Villanova University
Catie graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in finance and international business. She spent six years in the industry before beginning her journey to medicine, scoring in the 100th percentile on the MCAT. With over five years of quantitative tutoring experience, Catie has a proven track record of helping students achieve their highest potential on the exam.
View Profile
Catie M.
Villanova University
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Catie has over five years of quantitative tutoring experience and scored in the 100th percentile on the MCAT.
Education
Undergrad: Villanova University
Fun Fact
In her free time, Catie enjoys trail running, practicing yoga, spending time outdoors with her dog, and trying new recipes.
Catie graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s in finance and international business. She spent six years in the industry before beginning her journey to medicine, scoring in the 100th percentile on the MCAT. With over five years of quantitative tutoring experience, Catie has a proven track record of helping students achieve their highest potential on the exam.
With a deep understanding of the MCAT's content and structure, Catie combines expert knowledge with tailored strategies to guide students through every aspect of their preparation. Drawing from her professional background and knowledge of the sciences, she brings a passion for teaching and a commitment to personalized instruction, ensuring that each student masters the material while building confidence in their test-taking strategy.
Catie is known for her engaging teaching style, clear explanations, and dedicated support, making her a sought-after resource for anyone aiming to excel on the MCAT. She is particularly adept in the Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills sections of the MCAT.
With years of tutoring experience and a non-traditional path to medicine, Catie offers unique perspectives and a pragmatic approach to MCAT preparation aimed at breaking down complex concepts into manageable parts and ensuring students are equipped with the skills and strategies necessary to excel on test day.
By tailoring each tutoring session to each student's individual needs, Catie creates a supportive and effective learning environment that cultivates confidence and empowers students to achieve significant score increases.
Cesilee P.
East Carolina University College of Nursing
Cesilee is an emergency room nurse at McLeod Health. Her own success in passing the NCLEX on her first attempt with the minimum number of questions, coupled with her experience in test writing and knowledge of effective test-taking strategies, makes her an invaluable resource for all nursing students.
View Profile
Cesilee P.
East Carolina University College of Nursing
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Cesille excels in test-taking strategies and prioritization questions.
Education
Undergrad: University of North Carolina Wilmington
Nursing School: East Carolina University
Fun Fact
Cesilee loves dogs and spoils her black Lab, Clover, and Irish Wolfhound, Basil. She used to train service dogs, including diabetic alert dogs and psychiatric service dogs for children and veterans with disabilities.
Cesilee is an emergency room nurse at McLeod Health. Her own success in passing the NCLEX on her first attempt with the minimum number of questions, coupled with her experience in test writing and knowledge of effective test-taking strategies, makes her an invaluable resource for all nursing students.
Cesilee began her academic journey at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and gained experience tutoring neurobiology. However, her desire to make a more direct impact on people's lives led her to pursue a career in nursing. She completed an accelerated Bachelor's in Nursing program at East Carolina University in just 12 months. She furthered her expertise by earning a Master's in Nursing Education from East Carolina University. She has over four years of experience in Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, including a Critical Care Nursing certification.
As a nursing educator, Cesilee has extensive experience teaching students at all levels in both clinical and lecture settings. She is passionate about helping students grasp complex nursing concepts and develop the skills necessary to succeed in their future careers. For several years, she has filled roles such as Critical Care Registered Nurse, Clinical Instructor, and Emergency Room Nurse. Her supportive teaching style, combined with her ability to create personalized study plans and adapt to each student's learning preferences, makes her an exceptional mentor for aspiring nurses.
Cesilee possesses a wide range of strategies for breaking down difficult material and presenting it in an accessible and engaging manner. Whether working with students one-on-one or in a group setting, she is dedicated to finding the most effective approach for each individual's needs. Her experience in critical care and emergency nursing allows her to provide real-world examples and insights that help students bridge the gap between theory and practice.
In addition to her clinical expertise and teaching experience, Cesilee is known for her warm and approachable demeanor. She creates a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, taking risks, and pushing themselves to grow. Her genuine passion for nursing education and her belief in her students' potential make her an invaluable mentor and guide throughout their nursing school journey.
Chris L.
Harvard University
Master Tutor
Chris attended Harvard University, where he pursued a double major in chemistry & physics and history of science and concurrently graduated with an MA in chemistry. He graduated magna cum laude with high departmental honors in chemistry and physics. Chris has four years of tutoring experience, having taught undergraduate and graduate-level chemistry coursework throughout college.
View Profile
Chris L.
Harvard University
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Chris taught an introductory course in organic chemistry, biochemistry, and genetics as well as graduate-level biochemistry while at Harvard—all while earning an MA at the same time as his Bachelor’s degree.
Education
Undergrad: Harvard University
Graduate School: Harvard University
Fun Fact
Outside of teaching, Chris enjoys photography, running, playing basketball, and cooking.
Chris attended Harvard University, where he pursued a double major in chemistry & physics and history of science and concurrently graduated with an MA in chemistry. He graduated magna cum laude with high departmental honors in chemistry and physics. Chris has four years of tutoring experience, having taught undergraduate and graduate-level chemistry coursework throughout college.
Chris has extensive research experience in biology and physical chemistry. In high school, he worked on studying cancer genetics, culminating in two first-author publications on melanoma genetics and a corresponding author publication on colorectal cancer genetics. In college, Chris became interested in using physical chemistry tools to probe biological systems. He helped develop a novel optically-controlled spatial-omics tool that has also been published. For his work on this project, he was awarded the Undergraduate Award in Physical Chemistry by the American Chemical Society.
During his time at Harvard, Chris served as President of the Harvard College Undergraduate Research Association (HCURA) for over two years, and was awarded over $5,000 as Herchel-Smith Undergraduate Science Research Program Fellow to fund his summer research. He was also recently awarded Best Poster Presentation in Biochemistry at the Harvard Chemistry and Chemical Biology Undergraduate Research Symposium.
Chris has over four years of tutoring experience as a Harvard Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology teaching fellow. Throughout college, he taught introductory courses in organic chemistry, biochemistry, and genetics, as well as graduate-level biochemistry. He was awarded a Certificate of Excellence in Teaching from Harvard several times for his commitment to instruction.
Chris’s approach to tutoring centers on thoughtfully assessing student understanding before designing curated materials that fit their learning style. He emphasizes this personalized approach to ensure that students can understand difficult concepts intuitively and, therefore, think flexibly through problems independently. Chris considers communication and collaboration between teacher and student to be some of his greatest strengths. Seeing students grow and experience those moments of "a-ha" understanding is immensely satisfying to him.
Christina H.
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
View Profile
Christina H.
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Education
Undergrad: University of Florida
Vet School:University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
In her leisure time, Christina enjoys reading science fiction novels, journaling, traveling with family, and practicing West African Dance.
Dr. Christina is currently working at the Miami ASPCA Community Veterinary Center. She achieved her Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Florida, where she also pursued a minor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation and graduated with a commendable GPA of 3.8. Following her undergraduate studies, she continued her education at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where she was inducted into the Phi Zeta Honor Society.
Christina has a rich history of leadership and mentorship. During her time in university, she was actively involved in multiple organizations, including the pre-veterinary club and the Minority Association of Pre-Health Students. Her passion for veterinary medicine led her to establish the Minority Pre-Veterinary Club, aiming to improve diversity in veterinary medicine. She has been working with pre-veterinary students for the past four years, assisting with their application process.
Her strength lies not only in her academic excellence but also in her ability to share her extensive knowledge with her students. She believes in guiding students effectively through their preparation process, providing more than just a tutor-student relationship. Christina uses her real-world veterinary experience to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of their respective fields.
After serving as a small animal general practitioner and dealing with the effects of the pandemic on pet owners and companion animals, she found her true calling as a community veterinarian working for the ASPCA. Her role allows her to offer veterinary services to underserved areas, further demonstrating her commitment to animal welfare and community service.
Clarissa P.
The University of California, Los Angeles
Clarissa is a distinguished UCLA alumna with more than four years of teaching experience, having instructed students at UCLA. Possessing a nuanced understanding of the MCAT's challenges, she is committed to empowering students to excel and achieve their highest potential.
View Profile
Clarissa P.
The University of California, Los Angeles
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Clarissa has extensive experience teaching students from diverse backgrounds, having worked with over 100 students. This allows her to effectively adapt to various learning styles.
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Fun Fact
On weekends, Clarissa loves to explore new restaurants, host dinner parties, and bake desserts.
Clarissa is a distinguished UCLA alumna with more than four years of teaching experience, having instructed students at UCLA. Possessing a nuanced understanding of the MCAT's challenges, she is committed to empowering students to excel and achieve their highest potential.
Clarissa holds a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and a Bachelor of Arts in economics from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has extensive research experience at UCLA and Yonsei University and brings several years of teaching expertise to her tutoring practice, having guided students at UCLA to grasp complex concepts and achieve academic improvement.
Clarissa is deeply committed to empowering students to reach their full potential. Recognizing the challenges posed by MCAT content, she aims to create targeted study plans that emphasize high-yield topics. She is devoted to creating a supportive learning environment where every student can thrive and succeed on their MCAT journey.
Clarissa excels at motivating students to excel in their studies and achieve their goals. Her strengths lie in her ability to simplify complex topics to ensure every student gains clarity and confidence in their understanding. She is also skilled at adapting to different learning styles, making her an effective and versatile tutor.
Courtney S.
Occidental College
Master Tutor
Courtney is a graduate of Occidental College, where she earned her degree in biochemistry with a minor in computer science, graduating summa cum laude. After scoring a 523 (99th percentile) on the MCAT, she began working as a medical scribe in Stanford’s Family Medicine Clinic, gaining firsthand experience in patient care and clinical decision-making.
View Profile
Courtney S.
Occidental College
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Courtney scored 523 on the MCAT, which means she is in the top 1% of test-takers.
Education
Undergrad: Occidental College
Fun Fact
Outside of academics, Courtney enjoys playing tennis—she competed at the NCAA Division III level in college—and exploring hiking trails in the Bay Area.
Courtney is a graduate of Occidental College, where she earned her degree in biochemistry with a minor in computer science, graduating summa cum laude. After scoring a 523 (99th percentile) on the MCAT, she began working as a medical scribe in Stanford’s Family Medicine Clinic, gaining firsthand experience in patient care and clinical decision-making.
With a background in research—including a Fulbright fellowship in Spain studying genetic biomarkers for Long COVID—Courtney enjoys thinking critically about science and its applications in medicine. She previously worked as a chemistry teaching assistant, where she learned how to explain complex concepts in a clear and accessible way. She applies this same approach to MCAT tutoring, helping students build confidence and tackle the test with a strategic mindset.
Courtney understands how challenging the MCAT can be and strives to create a supportive and individualized learning environment. She tailors her approach to each student’s strengths and learning style, focusing on both content mastery and test-taking strategies. She helps students navigate difficult topics and develop a plan that works for them.
Courtney understands that preparing for the MCAT is a demanding process, but with the right support and strategies, students can reach their goals. She is also fluent in Spanish and passionate about improving communication in healthcare.
Dana M.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
Dana, a highly accomplished student in the BA/DMD program offered jointly by NJIT and the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, has demonstrated exceptional academic prowess throughout her educational journey. Her impressive performance on the DAT, scoring in the 99th percentile, proves her dedication and mastery of the subject matter. Throughout her studies, Dana has gained valuable hands-on experience by working part-time at a dental office, further contributing to her understanding of the field.
View Profile
Dana M.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dental Admissions Test Instructor
Education
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Dental School: Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
When she isn’t tutoring, Dana finds joy in exploring her creative passions. She is an avid artist who enjoys painting, woodworking, and crafting pottery. These artistic pursuits not only provide her with a creative outlet but also help her maintain a balanced and well-rounded lifestyle. In addition to her love for art, Dana is a talented cook and baker, often spending her free time experimenting with new recipes and whipping up delicious treats for her friends and family.
Dana, a highly accomplished student in the BA/DMD program offered jointly by NJIT and the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, has demonstrated exceptional academic prowess throughout her educational journey. Her impressive performance on the DAT, scoring in the 99th percentile, proves her dedication and mastery of the subject matter. Throughout her studies, Dana has gained valuable hands-on experience by working part-time at a dental office, further contributing to her understanding of the field.
Dana's passion for mentoring students derives from her own experiences navigating the challenging path to dental school. Her tutoring philosophy centers around creating an interactive and supportive environment that encourages students to actively participate in their learning process. By focusing on engaging methodologies tailored to each student's needs, she deepens the understanding of course material and builds confidence in tackling the DAT.
Dana's comprehensive knowledge of the DAT, coupled with her experience as a mathematics and DAT tutor, allows her to provide targeted guidance to support her students. Her patient and approachable demeanor creates a comfortable atmosphere where students feel encouraged to ask questions and explore concepts in depth. She works closely with each individual to develop personalized study plans and strategies for optimal performance on the DAT.
As a Dean's List recipient and an honors scholar, Dana recognizes the importance of not only mastering DAT content but also engaging in effective learning strategies.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Dr. Aanika W.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Warner, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and NIH Hematology/Oncology fellow, brings insider knowledge from serving on medical school admissions committees, including at John Hopkins. With 10+ peer-reviewed publications and extensive pre-medical advising experience, she offers meticulous, structured guidance.
View Profile
Dr. Aanika W.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, Oncology, Hematology
Education
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Warner learned how to scuba dive in 2019! Since then, she's explored the seas of Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Turks and Caicos. Her favorite dive was through a field of moon jellyfish. In her opinion, scuba diving is the closest feeling to flying there is.
Dr. Warner, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and NIH Hematology/Oncology fellow, brings insider knowledge from serving on medical school admissions committees, including at John Hopkins. With 10+ peer-reviewed publications and extensive pre-medical advising experience, she offers meticulous, structured guidance.
Dr. Warner graduated from Johns Hopkins with an MD and MPH in epidemiology/biostatistics before becoming a resident physician at the Johns Hopkins Osler Internal Medicine Training Program. Dr. Warner has sat on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee and has years of experience as a pre-medical advisor working with students who have been accepted to top medical schools such as the UCSF School of Medicine, UVA School of Medicine, and the University of Maryland School of Medicine, among others.
Dr. Warner obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona, where her fascination with the medical field flourished. She worked in a breast cancer research lab for four years, studying the protein interactions of triple-negative breast cancer. Her work in the lab led to her receiving funding to participate in a research exchange program in Sweden.
Her research experiences solidified her interest in oncology and led her to the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. During medical school, she won multiple scholarships, including the AMWA Carter Global Health Fellowship and the PEO International Scholar Award. After her third year of medical school, Aanika stepped away to pursue a fully funded MPH degree at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Here she was able to learn advanced statistical techniques for clinical research. She currently serves on the Procedures Working Group Committee at Johns Hopkins to increase procedure training for residents in the Osler Internal Medicine Residency.
Dr. Warner's passion for counseling stems from her own experiences applying to medical school. She understands the stress and complexity of the process and wishes she had had someone knowledgeable to guide her through it. This experience, combined with her love for teaching, drives her commitment to helping future doctors achieve their goals.
As a consultant since her fourth year of medical school, Dr. Warner has worked with pre-medical students seeking guidance during their college years, as well as those navigating the medical school application process. She has also been involved in one-on-one advising and interview preparation and her expertise extends to residency and internal medicine fellowship applications.
Dr. Warner's approach to counseling is thorough, structured, and efficient. She maintains close contact with students during the application process, ensuring they have a partner to lean on during this stressful time. Her sessions are productive and tailored to each student's needs, covering a variety of topics. After each session, she provides a brief summary email, allowing students to review the discussion and follow up with any additional questions.
Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her meticulous attention to detail, vast experience working with students, and insider knowledge of how admissions committees operate and review applicants. Dr. Warner works quickly while ensuring each student receives dedicated time on their written work to present their best selves. Her recent success stories include helping a student create an excellent update letter that resulted in their acceptance off the waitlist at UCSF.
Apart from her consulting work, Dr. Warner has continued to explore her interest in oncology and present at the American Society of Clinical Oncology. She was recently the keynote speaker at the Undergraduate Biology Research Program at the University of Arizona.
Dr. Abena A.
George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Director of Advising
Dr. Akomeah is an emergency and lifestyle medicine physician. She graduated with an MD from George Washington University School of Medicine, completed a residency at Carolinas Medical Center, and earned a Master of Education from Johns Hopkins University. She has five years of admissions committee experience, acting as an application reviewer and interviewer at her medical school and residency program.
View Profile
Dr. Abena A.
George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: George Washington University
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Fun Fact
Dr. Akomeah enjoys trying new plant-based recipes, spending some time outdoors on hikes or walks, and hanging out with family.
Dr. Akomeah is an emergency and lifestyle medicine physician. She graduated with an MD from George Washington University School of Medicine, completed a residency at Carolinas Medical Center, and earned a Master of Education from Johns Hopkins University. She has five years of admissions committee experience, acting as an application reviewer and interviewer at her medical school and residency program.
Dr. Akomeah’s passion for patient care was ignited in her childhood when she would play “doctor” at her mother’s small pharmacy in Ghana. After moving to the United States, Dr. Akomeah became a certified nursing assistant before attaining a BS in biology with a minor in philosophy from George Washington University (GWU), graduating cum laude. She further honed her research and clinical coordination skills during a post-baccalaureate experience at the National Institutes of Health, focusing on obesity research.
Returning to GWU for medical school, Dr. Akomeah served as President of the Society of Health and Nutrition and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She also pursued global health by volunteering in a clinic in Antigua, Guatemala—an experience that shaped her commitment to caring for diverse patient populations across all age groups.
Drawn to emergency medicine, Dr. Akomeah completed her residency at Carolinas Medical Center (now Atrium Health), where she developed a strong interest in student mentorship. In addition to hosting residency applicants and conducting mock interviews, she credits her own phenomenal mentor for inspiring her to help others succeed. She also led efforts to develop tools to attract a diverse and talented pool of residents for her department and to ensure that a culture of inclusion and awareness was fostered. Following her residency, Dr. Akomeah started a medical education fellowship at the University of Maryland and pursued a Master of Education in health professions at Johns Hopkins University.
Currently, Dr. Akomeah serves as an adjunct professor and Educational Director in her emergency department at the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center, precepting medical students from Caribbean schools and residents in family medicine, internal medicine, and emergency medicine. She is also known for integrating lifestyle medicine into her practice, often coaching patients on how dietary and behavioral changes can help manage or reverse chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
Beyond her clinical duties, Dr. Akomeah has published on topics ranging from emergency medicine training in Africa to obesity research, reflecting her commitment to global health and evidence-based practice.
Dr. Akomeah has continued to mentor residents, undergraduate students, and medical students, as she enjoys assisting students navigate the path to medical school and residency. Her students describe her as an approachable, encouraging mentor who challenges them to develop both strong applications and a deeper understanding of their professional goals. Ultimately, Dr. Akomeah’s guiding principle is to empower each aspiring healthcare professional to identify and highlight their unique strengths, ensuring that every individual she mentors is well-prepared for a successful career in medicine.
Dr. Adil M.
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Menon holds an MS in bioethics from Harvard Medical School and an MD from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He completed his clinical pathology residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and is now a microbiology fellow at the Mayo Clinic. He also serves as the faculty facilitator for several courses at the Feinberg School of Medicine.
View Profile
Dr. Adil M.
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Microbiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
In his free time, Dr. Menon enjoys studying history.
Dr. Menon holds an MS in bioethics from Harvard Medical School and an MD from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He completed his clinical pathology residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and is now a microbiology fellow at the Mayo Clinic. He also serves as the faculty facilitator for several courses at the Feinberg 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.
Dr. Aditya K.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Dr. Khurana is a radiology resident at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, bringing a blend of medical expertise, research experience, and innovation to his role. His commitment to innovation in radiology is reflected in his role on the RadioGraphics Trainee Editorial Advisory Members (TEAM) Board for the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
View Profile
Dr. Aditya K.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Radiology
Education
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Khurana loves coffee, espresso, and trying new coffee shops. He is also a fan of trail running and cycling.
Dr. Khurana is a radiology resident at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, bringing a blend of medical expertise, research experience, and innovation to his role. His commitment to innovation in radiology is reflected in his role on the RadioGraphics Trainee Editorial Advisory Members (TEAM) Board for the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
Dr. Khurana completed his undergraduate studies at Duke University, majoring in neuroscience. He then attended the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, graduating as part of the inaugural class at the Arizona campus. His academic path has been characterized by a series of steps forward and continuous self-discovery, always seeking to find his niche in healthcare that energizes him and allows him to co-create something better with his peers.
During medical school, Dr. Khurana was awarded a grant from the Mayo Clinic to design AI/NLP solutions for the patient portal in the electronic health record (EHR). He collaborated with NLP researchers across the enterprise to advance this technology. Additionally, he engaged with the Care Collaboratory, a network of healthcare leaders and innovators, where he learned and taught design thinking to redesign healthcare with a human-centered approach.
Throughout his academic career, Dr. Khurana has been extensively involved in research, ranging from computational neuroscience in undergrad to artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and health services research in medical school. His research prowess is evidenced by numerous publications in these areas, and he continues to be academically productive.
Dr. Khurana gained experience as an internal medicine resident in PGY-1 at Creighton University Arizona Health Education Alliance before starting his radiology residency. His research experience includes work at Mayo Clinic's Minimally Invasive Therapeutics Laboratory and the Precision Neurotherapeutics (PNT) Innovation Program, where he was involved in data science and machine learning projects related to glioblastomas.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Khurana enjoys trail running through Phoenix's mountain preserves, cycling, and curating music playlists. He measures a good day by having more energy at the end of it than at the beginning.
Dr. Khurana's goal is to contribute to the eventual redesign of healthcare, combining his medical expertise with his passion for innovation and technology. His diverse experiences and forward-thinking approach position him as a knowledgeable mentor and promising future leader in the field of radiology and healthcare innovation.
Dr. Ajay K.
University of Michigan School of Medicine
Dr. Kolli has an MD from the University of Michigan, an MPH from Harvard, and is a resident physician in Ophthalmology at UCSF. He has extensive research experience, 100th percentile USMLE scores, and a passion for helping diverse applicants craft compelling narratives.
View Profile
Dr. Ajay K.
University of Michigan School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Medical School: University of Michigan School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Kolli loves spending time outdoors, skiing in the winter, and hiking or surfing when it's warm.
Dr. Kolli has an MD from the University of Michigan, an MPH from Harvard, and is a resident physician in Ophthalmology at UCSF. He has extensive research experience, 100th percentile USMLE scores, and a passion for helping diverse applicants craft compelling narratives.
Before beginning his residency, Dr. Kolli earned his MD degree from the University of Michigan and his MPH from Harvard University. With experience at various prestigious institutions across the country, Dr. Kolli is well-equipped to assist applicants interested in schools in any region.
During his time at the University of Michigan Medical School, Dr. Kolli achieved 100th percentile scores on the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 board exams, received the Charles and Phyllis Lowe Merit Scholarship, was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honors Society, and graduated with Distinction in Research Honors. He has conducted a wide array of research at both Michigan and Harvard, resulting in numerous publications and academic conference presentations in fields such as ophthalmology, epidemiology, and health economics. Dr. Kolli has also worked as a consultant in the biotechnology industry, helping move new drugs toward FDA approval.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Kolli's strengths lie in his diverse academic interests and ability to help applicants from varied backgrounds craft a cohesive narrative about their experiences. Having navigated the medical school admissions process himself and co-founded The Lens, an educational resource for aspiring ophthalmologists, he is passionate about guiding applicants in telling their stories.
Dr. Alex X.
New York University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Xu is currently the Chief Resident in urology at NYU Langone and has earned national awards for outstanding work. As an NYU School of Medicine graduate via the Accelerated Three-Year Pathway, he has published extensively on topics including prostate cancer, robotic reconstructive techniques, and the impact of social media in disseminating medical information. Dr. Xu sat on NYU admissions committees for medical school and his residency program as an interviewer and was privy to the discussion and ranking process.
View Profile
Dr. Alex X.
New York University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Urology, Surgery, Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad:Columbia University
Medical School: New York University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Xu comes from a family of creatives—his grandfather was a Hollywood actor, his brother is a popular content creator, and his aunt has written several books. In his spare time, he enjoys trying out new recipes and restaurants, and traveling—South Africa and Costa Rica are next on his list!
Dr. Xu is currently the Chief Resident in urology at NYU Langone and has earned national awards for outstanding work. As an NYU School of Medicine graduate via the Accelerated Three-Year Pathway, he has published extensively on topics including prostate cancer, robotic reconstructive techniques, and the impact of social media in disseminating medical information. Dr. Xu sat on NYU admissions committees for medical school and his residency program as an interviewer and was privy to the discussion and ranking process.
As a competitive high school swimmer and crew team member, Dr. Xu honed his discipline and teamwork skills, which later translated to his success as a Division I athlete at Columbia University. Pursuing a major in biology on the pre-med track, he maintained an impressive 3.8 cumulative GPA while balancing his athletic commitments and community involvement.
During his time at Columbia, Dr. Xu's passion for helping others shone through his volunteer work at the Crime Victims Treatment Center, where he provided support to survivors of domestic violence in the Emergency Department. Recognizing the importance of health education, he taught classes in under-resourced high schools through Peer Health Exchange.
Dr. Xu also spent two years as a research assistant at Columbia, studying the effect of chronic stress on the developmental fate of stem cells, before spending two years as a Contemporary Biology Lab teaching assistant. Additionally, he spearheaded the Columbia chapter of Camp Kesem, organizing a transformative summer camp for children whose parents were battling cancer.
After graduating from Columbia, Dr. Xu began his gap year to improve his skills further and gain new experiences. He conducted bench research at NYU's Department of Biochemistry, deepening his understanding of the scientific foundations of medicine, before scoring in the top 0.01% of MCAT takers. Simultaneously, he provided private tutoring services across Manhattan, honing his ability to communicate complex concepts effectively.
At NYU, Dr. Xu discovered his passion for urology after shadowing several surgical specialties. He has recently secured a prestigious position at Case Western University Hospitals for a genitourinary reconstruction and gender affirmation fellowship.
As a first-generation physician and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Dr. Xu brings a different perspective to his role as a mentor and advisor. He recognizes that each student's journey to medical school and beyond is deeply personal and shaped by their individual experiences and background. His ability to connect with and support a diverse range of applicants sets him apart as a trusted guide and advocate for aspiring medical professionals.
Dr. Alexa A.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Altchek is a categorical pediatrics resident in the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, a Harvard–affiliated program at Boston Children’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center. She earned her MD from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, where she received the Dean’s Scholarship for academic achievement every year. She has over seven years of mentorship experience and served on the Rutgers Medical School admissions committee for three years.
View Profile
Dr. Alexa A.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatrics
Education
Undergrad: Harvard University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Fun Fact
Dr. Altchek’s scholarly work has been supported by the Fred Lovejoy House-Staff Research and Education Fund Grant.
Dr. Altchek is a categorical pediatrics resident in the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, a Harvard–affiliated program at Boston Children’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center. She earned her MD from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, where she received the Dean’s Scholarship for academic achievement every year. She has over seven years of mentorship experience and served on the Rutgers Medical School admissions committee for three years.
Before her time at Rutgers, Dr. Altchek completed her undergraduate education at Harvard University, where she graduated with Latin honors with a top GPA. She excelled as a four-year Division I varsity athlete on the Harvard softball team, winning an Ivy League Championship and participating in the NCAA tournament. She became an expert in time management with a grueling academic and athletic schedule, as well as perseverance and dedication to all her varied pursuits through her time at Harvard.
At Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Dr. Altchek was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She was dedicated to her work in the community, creating and implementing a unique mental health and wellness curriculum in a local high school health class. She was recognized for her achievements and graduated with Distinction in Service to the Community. She also received multiple grants and scholarships from the Jewish Federation of Philadelphia in recognition of her academic and service commitment throughout medical school.
Dr. Altchek was heavily involved in medical education and the student experience at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson, serving as an elected member of the Student Government Association as well as being selected as a student representative on the medical school’s admissions committee. She acted as an interviewer and played an active role in selecting incoming medical school students and future physicians, where she learned what makes and sets apart the best medical school candidates.
Now a resident physician, Dr. Altchek continues to pursue her passion for medical education and mentorship by guiding students through applying to medical school and residency. As the first medical professional in her family, she appreciates the importance of having a thoughtful, knowledgeable guide through the application process. Students she has coached have been accepted to Harvard Medical School, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Washington University School of Medicine, UMass Chan School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, and others.
One of Dr. Altchek’s greatest strengths as an advisor is her friendly, welcoming demeanor and open communication style. She is warm and inviting, enabling students to be their true and honest selves and put their best foot forward in the application process. The experience of applying to medical school and residency is a personal one, and Dr. Altchek is incredibly dedicated to finding the best fit for every individual, helping them grow and achieve each one of their personal goals along the way.
Dr. Altchek approaches each counseling session with a detailed, timely approach that keeps each person’s personal and professional goals at the top of mind. She enables students to be the experts in their own experience, taking the lead with strategic guidance and mentorship along the way. Her approach is well-rounded, allowing her to pay attention to all the details that comprise a successful applicant. Dr. Altchek loves the connection that close counseling can provide and aims to help and lift her future medical colleagues through the process to become the best physicians they can be!
Dr. Andre S.
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Stone is an ophthalmology resident at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary in Chicago and a dedicated admissions coach with over eight years of experience in medicine, research, and mentorship. He graduated with an MD from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded a scholarship covering the entire cost of his attendance and served on the admissions committee as an interviewer.
View Profile
Dr. Andre S.
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Stone is a fitness enthusiast and personal trainer, having competed in bodybuilding competitions and consistently encouraging others to pursue wellness. He is also an advocate for community service, has volunteered extensively, and has participated in global mission trips.
Dr. Stone is an ophthalmology resident at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary in Chicago and a dedicated admissions coach with over eight years of experience in medicine, research, and mentorship. He graduated with an MD from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded a scholarship covering the entire cost of his attendance and served on the admissions committee as an interviewer.
Dr. Stone began his academic journey at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he graduated with a double major in biomedical sciences and pre-clinical health sciences. While at UCF, he was actively involved as an orientation leader, resident assistant, and biology tutor.
Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Stone received acceptances from several prestigious institutions but chose the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he was awarded the Dean’s Diversity Full Cost of Attendance Scholarship, covering the entire cost of attendance for four years of medical school. Upon graduation, Dr. Stone matched into a residency position at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, one of the nation’s top ophthalmology programs accepting only six residents per year.
Dr. Stone has an extensive research portfolio that includes studies on the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, advancements in diabetic retinopathy screening, and innovative approaches to addressing barriers in eye care. He has been published in multiple journals such as the Journal of Vascular Surgery, the Journal of Prehospital Emergency Care, and the Journal of Academic Ophthalmology, with multiple first-author manuscripts. His presentations at national conferences, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery, highlight his ability to translate complex topics into actionable insights.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Stone leverages his firsthand understanding of the challenges applicants face at every stage of the process. Drawing on his experience from both sides of the admissions table, he offers a personalized, compassionate approach. He excels at helping students identify their strengths, address vulnerabilities, and craft authentic narratives that resonate with admissions committees.
Above all, Dr. Stone is passionate about shaping the next generation of physicians. By offering empathetic guidance and rigorous preparation, he ensures that every applicant he mentors has the tools to excel in medicine and beyond.
Dr. Andrew W.
Icahn School of Medicine
Dr. Warburton is an anesthesiology resident at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. In his first year of medical school, Dr. Warburton participated in multiple research labs, focusing on large-data analysis and machine learning. His research endeavors have been prolific, resulting in over 20 peer-reviewed publications.
View Profile
Dr. Andrew W.
Icahn School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Warburton is a licensed rescue diver, a die-hard Steelers fan, and a self-proclaimed wine and chocolate expert. He enjoys going to the gym, playing video games, playing the piano, and shooting.
Dr. Warburton is an anesthesiology resident at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. In his first year of medical school, Dr. Warburton participated in multiple research labs, focusing on large-data analysis and machine learning. His research endeavors have been prolific, resulting in over 20 peer-reviewed publications.
Originally from the greater Pittsburgh area, Dr. Warburton completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in computational chemistry with a focus on biology. During college, he conducted research through the Department of Biomedical Informatics, publishing a paper in Scientific Reports on long non-coding RNA SNHG7 and its impact on breast cancer. Demonstrating exceptional academic prowess, Dr. Warburton graduated in just three years before proceeding directly to medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Alongside his academic pursuits, Dr. Warburton co-founded Retina Technologies Inc., a startup valued at $12 million. As the former Chief Technology Officer, he led the development of a revolutionary approach to vision care. The company aims to disrupt the field by leveraging virtual reality, retinal imaging, and machine learning on a portable platform, providing affordable, accessible, and accurate vision screening across the United States. Under his leadership, the company conducted four clinical trials, and submitted three provisional patents and one non-provisional PCT patent, with Dr. Warburton personally overseeing the development of both hardware and software components.
Dr. Warburton’s ability to balance these responsibilities while excelling in his medical studies is a testament to his dedication and time management skills. He is committed to helping others in their medical careers, leveraging his diverse experiences to mentor and guide aspiring healthcare professionals.
Dr. Archana P.
Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program
Master Advisor
Dr. Podury earned her MD from Harvard Medical School in the Harvard-MIT HST Program after completing her BA in Neuroscience at Cornell. With a talent for improving patients' lives through technology and research, she is eager to guide applicants through the admissions process.
View Profile
Dr. Archana P.
Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School: Harvard Medical School (Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program)
Fun Fact
Before medical school, Dr. Podury lived solo in Japan for two months and documented her time in a travel sketchbook. Her book grows as she travels more—most recently, to Iceland and Denmark.
Dr. Podury earned her MD from Harvard Medical School in the Harvard-MIT HST Program after completing her BA in Neuroscience at Cornell. With a talent for improving patients' lives through technology and research, she is eager to guide applicants through the admissions process.
Dr. Podury is currently an Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery resident at the University of California San Diego. Before beginning her residency, she earned a BA in neuroscience from Cornell University, where she was a Hunter R. Rawlings Presidential Research Scholar, Barry M. Goldwater Scholar Honorable Mention, and a Phi Beta Kappa member. She earned her MD from Harvard Medical School in the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program.
During her time at Cornell, Dr. Podury earned several awards in recognition of her research, including the Einhorn Discovery Grant, the Zuckerman Prize for Excellence in Bioengineering Research, the Ewing Family Service Award, and the Menschell Cornell Commitment Award. While studying neural circuits, Archana worked at a syringe exchange in Ithaca, New York, where she witnessed firsthand the mechanics of court-based drug rehabilitation. Listening to patients’ stories deepened her conviction that science alone could not capture multiple dimensions of health and disease, which paved her path toward medicine.
At Harvard, Dr. Podury received $90,000 in scholarship support as a Paul & Daisy Soros Fellow and David Margin Graduate Student Leadership Fellow; she was also a recipient of the Massachusetts Medical Society Information Technology Award and Freeberg Student Research Award. Her work has centered on developing technologies to improve patient’s quality of life. In the Boyden Lab at MIT, she used optical imaging methods to characterize circuit dysfunction in human brain organoid models of neurodevelopmental disease, culminating in a publication in Nature.
Dr. Podury worked in the Dhand Lab at Brigham and Women’s Hospital to apply network science tools to understand how patients’ social environments influence their health outcomes during disability. She is currently working in the Otopathology lab at Massachusetts Eye & Ear to study implant options for patients with sensorineural hearing loss and is applying machine learning methods to study surgical outcomes.
As an admissions coach, she enjoys listening to students' stories and is committed to helping them communicate their interests genuinely and in alignment with their values.
Dr. Benjamin P.
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Park is a resident physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center with over two years of experience working with both international and U.S. applicants applying to MD, DO, and Caribbean programs. Before matriculating to Vanderbilt, he worked as a research coordinator at the renowned Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute.
View Profile
Dr. Benjamin P.
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Diagnostic Radiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Medical School: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Park is a former amateur boxer who has had the chance to box in Georgia and Vietnam.
Dr. Park is a resident physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center with over two years of experience working with both international and U.S. applicants applying to MD, DO, and Caribbean programs. Before matriculating to Vanderbilt, he worked as a research coordinator at the renowned Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute.
Dr. Park graduated summa cum laude from the University of Georgia with the highest honors and a research distinction. At UGA, he rowed for the UGA Crew Team, led over 8 campus organizations, led the genetic engineering team to a gold medal at an international competition against >300 teams, interned at the Institute for Disaster Management, established the UGA STEM Research Alliance, and was awarded the Presidential Award of Excellence as one of the overall top 1% graduate students. He also had several international study and healthcare experiences in South Korea, Spain, and Vietnam as a Freeman-Asia Scholar and a visiting student intern.
At Vanderbilt, Dr. Park led several mentoring, patient care, and advocacy initiatives. He was the director of the Shade Tree Plastic Surgery & Wound Care clinic, which provides free care to underserved patients who require plastic surgery procedures and wound care in Nashville, TN. To improve patient care and access, he served as a subcommittee leader on the Vanderbilt Medical Center’s High-Value Care Committee and as a board member of the Vanderbilt Tennessee Medical Association chapter. He mentored students from various backgrounds and interests when he served as the leader of the Plastic Surgery Interest Group. During this time, he also served as a medical writer for the Journal of Medical Insight.
Before residency, he also completed a dual research fellowship as a fully funded Vanderbilt Medical Scholar in Plastic Surgery and Hematology/Oncology, where he researched patient-reported outcomes measures, biomedical ethics, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. This research resulted in >20 publications, numerous podium and poster presentations at national and international meetings, several major international studies, and a grant from the National Center for Advancing Translational Science. Several of his works were published in high-impact journals such as JAMA Pediatrics and featured in news outlets.
As a first-generation physician and the son of immigrant parents, Dr. Park has the lived experience to help guide others who are on a similar path. His greatest strengths include his ability to work with all types of candidates due to the diverse experiences he’s encountered in most general premed activities, including athletics, research, community service, experiences abroad, teaching, social advocacy, legislation, medical employment, etc. These experiences have allowed him to successfully match into a top-tier medical school and residency program.
Dr. Bertina H.
Creighton University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Hooks is an internal medicine physician with more than 15 years of clinical experience, complemented by a strong background in mentorship, medical education, and admissions committee experience. She earned her MD from Creighton University School of Medicine after completing her undergraduate studies in biochemistry with honors at Loras College, both on full-ride academic scholarships. Dr. Hooks completed an internal medicine residency at CHI Mercy before building a career spanning hospital medicine, private practice, and executive medical leadership.
View Profile
Dr. Bertina H.
Creighton University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, OB/GYN
Education
Undergrad: Loras College
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Hooks currently serves as Medical Director of the Inpatient Division at Centene Corporation.
Dr. Hooks is an internal medicine physician with more than 15 years of clinical experience, complemented by a strong background in mentorship, medical education, and admissions committee experience. She earned her MD from Creighton University School of Medicine after completing her undergraduate studies in biochemistry with honors at Loras College, both on full-ride academic scholarships. Dr. Hooks completed an internal medicine residency at CHI Mercy before building a career spanning hospital medicine, private practice, and executive medical leadership.
As a counselor, Dr. Hooks brings years of admissions committee experience at Creighton University School of Medicine, where she evaluated hundreds of applications and interviewed 100+ candidates in both medical school and residency admissions. Her guidance has helped students earn acceptances at top institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Duke, Northwestern, USC, the University of Chicago, Emory, and multiple University of California campuses.
Dr. Hooks’ career reflects a passion for both medicine and entrepreneurship. She has practiced as a hospitalist, founded a private practice specializing in medical weight loss and aesthetics, and now serves as Medical Director of the Inpatient Division at Centene Corporation. Her leadership extends beyond clinical work, through her work as a mentor at Pinnacle Business Academy, providing professional development for physicians and medical trainees alike. She is also the CEO of Phoenix Med Health PLLC.
Recognized for her dedication to student success, Dr. Hooks is committed to empowering future physicians to navigate the challenges of admissions with confidence. She takes pride in offering personalized coaching that helps students highlight their unique strengths and achieve their long-term goals, whether they’re applying to medical school or residency programs.
Dr. Bima H.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Hasjim is a general surgery resident at the University of California, Irvine. He served as a UC Irvine admissions officer, where he conducted interviews, evaluated applicants, and reviewed resumes and applications. With 10+ years of coaching and admissions experience, he excels in interview prep, personal statement editing, and application guidance. Additionally, Dr. Hasjim has a strong background in academic counseling, having contributed to the development of UC Irvine's pre-medical curriculum in the biomedical department.
View Profile
Dr. Bima H.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Transplant Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Irvine
Medical School: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Graduate School: Northwestern University
Fun Fact
Dr. Hasjim is an ardent supporter of the Seattle Mariners, Pittsburgh Steelers, and March Madness. He enjoys exploring local culinary delights and barbershops, and he even cuts his own hair, occasionally offering his barbering skills to family and friends.
Dr. Hasjim is a general surgery resident at the University of California, Irvine. He served as a UC Irvine admissions officer, where he conducted interviews, evaluated applicants, and reviewed resumes and applications. With 10+ years of coaching and admissions experience, he excels in interview prep, personal statement editing, and application guidance. Additionally, Dr. Hasjim has a strong background in academic counseling, having contributed to the development of UC Irvine's pre-medical curriculum in the biomedical department.
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.
Dr. Carmel Mercado
The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Dr. Mercado is a board-certified ophthalmologist, bringing expertise in pediatric and comprehensive ophthalmology to her mentor and admissions consultant role. She has served as Clinical Instructor for Ophthalmology and Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Casey Eye Institute, and Head of the Diversity Committee for the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Washington. In these roles, she has been involved with medical school admissions and ophthalmology residency and fellowship interviews.
View Profile
Dr. Carmel Mercado
The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: MIT
Medical School: The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Mercado is a self-proclaimed super nerd and loves discussing her favorite video games and anime with anyone who shares her passion for all things geeky.
Dr. Mercado is a board-certified ophthalmologist, bringing expertise in pediatric and comprehensive ophthalmology to her mentor and admissions consultant role. She has served as Clinical Instructor for Ophthalmology and Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Casey Eye Institute, and Head of the Diversity Committee for the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Washington. In these roles, she has been involved with medical school admissions and ophthalmology residency and fellowship interviews.
Dr. Mercado’s passion for mentoring and teaching began early in her academic career. As an undergraduate at MIT, she was recognized as one of 25 Burchard Scholars in her year for her outstanding achievements in the arts, humanities, social sciences, science, and engineering. Additionally, she was inducted as an MIT Class of 2009 Community Catalyst Leader for her extensive involvement in mentoring, teaching, and developing advising workshops for freshmen.
Dr. Mercado obtained her medical degree at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. During her time in medical school, she completed a research year as an international fellow at the Keio University School of Medicine. Her research project examined the history of traditional medicine in Japan and its integration into the modern Japanese medical system. This project was partly funded by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Dean’s Grant and through a scholarship from the International Chamber of Innovation, Commerce & Enterprise in Japan.
As an admissions consultant, Dr. Mercado's greatest strength lies in her firsthand experience with the medical school and residency admissions process. Her insider knowledge, combined with her own success in navigating the competitive world of medical education, allows her to provide invaluable insights and guidance to her students.
Beyond her clinical and academic achievements, Dr. Mercado is a well-rounded individual with a passion for global health and the arts. She has traveled to multiple countries, including Myanmar, the Philippines, and Belize, to participate in vision screenings and to teach eye surgery and the basics of pediatric eye care as invited faculty. Additionally, she is an accomplished artist who uses her art as a medium for health literacy education and empowerment, showcasing her creativity and dedication to patient care.
Dr. Celyn B.
University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Bregio is an internal medicine resident at Duke University Hospital with over nine years of mentoring and admissions experience. Dr. Bregio has guided students to acceptance at top institutions like Northwestern, UChicago, Weill Cornell, and the Cleveland Clinic. As a member of the Student Admissions Committee at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Bregio reviewed applications and interviewed applicants.
Undergrad: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Medical School: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Fun Fact
The unique spelling of Dr. Bregio's first name (pronounced seh-LEEN) is a result of the creative combination of her mom, dad, and grandma's names.
Dr. Bregio is an internal medicine resident at Duke University Hospital with over nine years of mentoring and admissions experience. Dr. Bregio has guided students to acceptance at top institutions like Northwestern, UChicago, Weill Cornell, and the Cleveland Clinic. As a member of the Student Admissions Committee at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Bregio reviewed applications and interviewed applicants.
Dr. Bregio's educational journey began at the Honors College at Miami Dade College, where she graduated with Highest Honors and Distinction. She later transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Carolina Covenant Scholar, a distinction that ensured her a debt-free undergraduate education. At both institutions, Dr. Bregio actively participated in community service, mentorship, and research initiatives, receiving several accolades for her academic achievement and community impact. Her dedication to scientific research culminated in the completion of a senior honors thesis in chemistry, poster presentations, and publication in a peer-reviewed journal. After graduating, she spent a year as a research fellow at the National Institute of Health through an Intramural Research Training Award (IRTA) Fellowship.
As a medical student at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Bregio further cultivated her passion for research, patient care advocacy, and mentorship. Her clinical and scientific endeavors in health equity and cancer care resulted in multiple oral presentations at the national level, peer-reviewed publications, and awards for her outstanding achievements, including the Scholars in Oncology Associated Research (SOAR) Grant. She remained steadfast in her commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in medicine by mentoring underrepresented students and actively contributing to the medical school admissions process.
Dr. Bregio's leadership and dedication to admissions work led to her invitation to serve as a voting member of the admissions committee during medical school, an honor extended to only 12 students in the class. In this role, she served as a primary student interviewer during the admissions cycle and reviewed, evaluated, and presented candidates at committee meetings. Before this, she spent three years interviewing candidates and served as the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) admissions representative, leading dialogue between current and prospective URM students during interview day activities.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Bregio encourages students to break down the application timeline into manageable steps, recognizing that a systematic approach is pivotal for reaching milestones without burning out or feeling rushed. She enjoys helping students tell their stories and highlight their strengths through their personal statement narratives, providing constructive feedback, and engaging students in reflection to identify and dig deeper into underdeveloped areas. She is also proficient in Spanish.
Dr. Charles F.
Duke University School of Medicine
Dr. Fang completed his residency in vascular surgery at the University of Massachusetts and now works as a wound physician at Vohra Wound Physicians in New York City. Dr. Fang has extensive research experience, having authored three publications and exploring his passion for vascular biology.
View Profile
Dr. Charles F.
Duke University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Vascular Surgery, Wound Care
Education
Undergrad: Duke University Pratt School of Engineering
Medical School:Duke University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
In addition to his professional commitments, Charles is a loving husband and father. He enjoys spending quality time with his wife and daughter, exploring the vibrant city life of New York.
Dr. Fang completed his residency in vascular surgery at the University of Massachusetts and now works as a wound physician at Vohra Wound Physicians in New York City. Dr. Fang has extensive research experience, having authored three publications and exploring his passion for vascular biology.
Dr. Fang began his academic journey in biomedical engineering at Duke University Pratt School of Engineering before earning his medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine. His academic excellence in college led to his induction into the Tau Beta Pi engineering honors society.
While pursuing his medical degree, Charles developed a keen interest in vascular biology, leading him to further explore this area through extensive research on the VEGFR2 receptor pathway. His valuable contribution was acknowledged with the prestigious Surgical Skills Award and the Eugene Stead Research Scholarship. Following his passion for vascular biology, he completed his residency training in Vascular Surgery at the University of Massachusetts.
Today, Charles applies his knowledge and skills in the New York City area, where he has built a successful career as a wound physician. His dedication to his field, combined with his rigorous academic background, makes him a source of knowledge for aspiring medical students. As an admissions coach, he is committed to sharing his insights and experiences to help students navigate the complex medical school admissions process.
Dr. Daniel R.
Albany Medical College
Master Advisor
Dr. Rodriguez is an emergency medicine resident at AdventHealth Orlando with a passion for mentorship, medical education, and supporting students through the medical school and residency application process. He brings firsthand experience from his time on admissions interview teams at both Albany Medical College and his residency program, where he’s conducted many applicant interviews and gained invaluable insight into what sets successful applicants apart.
View Profile
Dr. Daniel R.
Albany Medical College
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine, Rheumatological Illnesses, Critical Care Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Graduate School: University of South Florida
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Fun Fact
Dr. Rodriguez enjoys playing the acoustic guitar, reading, gourmet cooking, and traveling the world, exploring every hole-in-the-wall restaurant he can find. He is also an avid outdoorsman with a love of mountain climbing and skiing.
Dr. Rodriguez is an emergency medicine resident at AdventHealth Orlando with a passion for mentorship, medical education, and supporting students through the medical school and residency application process. He brings firsthand experience from his time on admissions interview teams at both Albany Medical College and his residency program, where he’s conducted many applicant interviews and gained invaluable insight into what sets successful applicants apart.
Dr. Rodriguez’s educational journey began at the University of Central Florida. Initially intent on graduating with a business degree and entering the business world with his father, life had other plans for him. He was thrust into the medical world as a patient. Finding himself spending more time in the hospital than in the classroom, he began to fall in love with the field of medicine and knew that this was the path for him.
Dr. Rodriguez went on to the University of South Florida to earn his Master’s degree in anatomy, graduating as the Valedictorian of his class. Afterwards, he chose to attend Albany Medical College. While attending medical school, he was involved with admissions, interviewing applicants, as well as hosting forums for aspiring medical students. His experience provided him with insider knowledge of the key ingredients necessary to successfully navigate medical school interviews. . He continues to be involved in admissions in his residency program by working with medical students on shift and interviewing candidates for the matching process.
Dr. Rodriguez’s passion for counseling and mentoring stems from his own medical admissions journey. As a first-generation physician, he had no prior experience or close mentors who could guide him through the process and provide key and helpful advice—he had to learn the ins and outs of the application process alone. Now, as a practicing physician, he has a passion and strong desire to give back and help others in navigating the incredibly complex medical applications process. He enjoys serving as the mentor he wished he had during his own journey. He also finds a profound sense of fulfillment in helping others in their own journeys.
What sets Dr. Rodriguez’s approach apart as a consultant is his personalized approach. He holds a deep belief that individuality is key to getting into medical school and becoming a successful physician. He works with a small handful of students at a time, devoting personalized attention, dedicating time to truly get to know them as individuals, and discovering what makes them unique. He then goes on to help students craft tailored plans, build strong narratives, and hone their interview skills.
Each session with Dr. Rodriguez is focused on clear goals while remaining adaptable to changing circumstances. He allows students to guide the conversation by choosing the areas they wish to explore, ensuring they receive the appropriate resources and guidance to address their questions. His journey and passion place him in the unique position to serve as a motivational mentor and guide to the next generation of physicians.
Dr. Rodriguez has a passion for emergency medicine, a field which he views not only as the front lines of medicine but also a diverse field where one must constantly be vigilant for their patients. He finds a profound satisfaction in being able to care for individuals from all walks of life and with all manner of medical problems, be it a simple influenza infection or the reversal of cardiac arrest.
Dr. David Y.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Yoo is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in oculoplastic and orbital reconstructive surgery. He has extensive admissions experience, including serving on a residency selection committee for 17+ years, acting as Ophthalmology Residency Director for over nine years at Loyola University Medical Center, and teaching as a professor at Loyola for 15+ years.
View Profile
Dr. David Y.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Yoo enjoys staying up-to-date on the latest movies, Korean dramas, and anime.
Dr. Yoo is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in oculoplastic and orbital reconstructive surgery. He has extensive admissions experience, including serving on a residency selection committee for 17+ years, acting as Ophthalmology Residency Director for over nine years at Loyola University Medical Center, and teaching as a professor at Loyola for 15+ years.
Dr. Yoo earned a BS in communication studies and disorders from Northwestern University before graduating with an MD from the Feinberg School of Medicine. He completed an internship and residency at McGaw Medical Center, followed by a fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital. Dr. Yoo currently practices at Aurora Eye Clinic Ltd.
In addition to residency selection committee experience, Dr. Yoo spent many years on the Loyola University Chicago’s Stritch School of Medicine admissions committee for medical applicants. With more than 17 years of experience mentoring students at the college, medical school, and residency levels, Dr. Yoo has gained insight into the full spectrum of medical education admissions.
Dr. Yoo takes a personalized approach to counseling, aspiring physicians have the tools necessary to reach their goals. He believes in getting to know each candidate as an individual to work toward the best possible outcomes for their medical school or residency applications.
Dr. Deanna P.
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dr. Plewa is a resident physician at New York-Presbyterian of Queens - Weill Cornell Medicine. While attending the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, she mentored first-year students, helping them with time management, study tips, and tutoring in the anatomy lab.
View Profile
Dr. Deanna P.
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Interests and Specialization
General Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of Tennessee
Med School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Plewa finds her passion in the world of science. However, she does have a secret musical indulgence: playing the ukulele. She laughingly admits that she hopes her loyal dog is the only one who listens to her strumming.
Dr. Plewa is a resident physician at New York-Presbyterian of Queens - Weill Cornell Medicine. While attending the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, she mentored first-year students, helping them with time management, study tips, and tutoring in the anatomy lab.
Dr. Plewa's educational journey began at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she graduated with a BS in kinesiology. This foundation in the study of human movement and function provided her with an interesting perspective on health and wellness that would later inform her approach to patient care. After completing her undergraduate degree, Dr. Plewa attended medical school at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine—Carolinas Campus. As a medical student, she demonstrated her commitment to mentoring and supporting her peers by mentoring first-year students.
Upon graduating from medical school, Dr. Plewa matched at New York-Presbyterian Queens - Weill Cornell Medicine for her general surgery residency, bringing her back to her roots in the Northeast. Her dedication to her craft and her leadership skills were quickly recognized within the program, leading to her nomination as a member of the Residency Council. In this role, she served as a liaison between the residents and administration, working to improve resident life and ensure that her colleagues had the support they needed to thrive.
Before pursuing her medical career, Dr. Plewa worked as a special education inclusion aid in a high school setting. In this role, she assisted students in keeping up with their coursework by hosting small group teaching sessions and tailoring her approach to meet each student's learning needs. This experience taught her the value of personalized attention and the importance of adapting to individual learning styles to foster success.
As a coach, Dr. Plewa brings her warm, approachable demeanor and her wealth of experience in mentoring and individualized support to help aspiring medical students achieve their goals. She understands the challenges and triumphs of the medical school journey firsthand and is committed to providing her students with the guidance, tools, and encouragement they need to succeed.
Dr. Derek W.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Wu graduated with an MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, and completed his anesthesiology residency at the University of California, San Diego. He served as an application reviewer and admissions ambassador at UC Irvine during medical school, and as a UCSD Anesthesiology program interviewer during residency. Today, Dr. Wu serves as Assistant Chief of Anesthesia, Medical Director of Outpatient Surgery, and Director of Procedural Sedation at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa.
View Profile
Dr. Derek W.
University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: University of California, Berkeley
Medical School: University of California, Irvine School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Wu enjoys life in Sonoma County with his wife and son. He is passionate about fitness and staying active, whether it’s lifting, hiking, or spending time outdoors. He also enjoys traveling and discovering new local food spots.
Dr. Wu graduated with an MD from the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, and completed his anesthesiology residency at the University of California, San Diego. He served as an application reviewer and admissions ambassador at UC Irvine during medical school, and as a UCSD Anesthesiology program interviewer during residency. Today, Dr. Wu serves as Assistant Chief of Anesthesia, Medical Director of Outpatient Surgery, and Director of Procedural Sedation at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa.
Dr. Wu earned his undergraduate degree at the University of California, Berkeley, where he double majored in psychology and biochemistry. After graduation, he spent four years away from formal training, working in roles that included high-level MCAT instruction and pharmaceutical clinical research. During this time, he contributed to Phase III clinical trials in Alzheimer’s disease biologics and advanced into a management role—experiences that sharpened his scientific knowledge and leadership skills, even before starting his career in medicine.
During medical school, Dr. Wu served as Class President of his cohort. During residency, he was elected Chief Resident for multiple years. Now serving in multiple leadership roles through the Permanente Medical Group, Inc., Dr. Wu oversees clinical operations, drives quality improvement initiatives, advances physician and healthcare worker education, and leads physician recruitment and development. He has built strong hiring pipelines with residency programs such as UCSD and Stanford, and frequently lectures residents on professional growth, regional anesthesia, and career planning.
As a coach, Dr. Wu blends strategic insight with empathy, drawing from his experiences as an applicant, Chief Resident, board-certified anesthesiologist, and physician recruiter. He helps applicants refine their personal statements, craft cohesive narratives, and excel in interviews with authenticity and confidence.
Dr. Wu has firsthand knowledge of the application and acceptance process at multiple levels, including medical school and residency, where he served on admission committees evaluating candidates. His greatest strength is his ability to highlight each student’s individuality while equipping them with the tools to succeed in highly competitive admissions processes. He has a unique 360-degree perspective on the entire process of becoming a doctor, from applying to medicine to now practicing as a board-certified anesthesiologist. Dr. Wu’s balance of professional expertise, mentorship, and personal warmth makes him a trusted guide for applicants navigating the journey to medical school and residency.
Dr. Dike Udensi
Tufts University School of Medicine
Dr. Udensi is a resident physician at Copper University Hospital. He received an MD from Tufts University School of Medicine. Born in Nigeria and raised in Dallas, Texas, Dr. Udensi's background has shaped his perspective and ability to connect with people from various walks of life.
View Profile
Dr. Dike Udensi
Tufts University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Child & Adolescent Psychology
Education
Undergrad: University of Connecticut
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Udensi is the middle child of five siblings and is part of the first generation in his family to complete college. He also loves to dance and sing, especially late-night karaoke with friends.
Dr. Udensi is a resident physician at Copper University Hospital. He received an MD from Tufts University School of Medicine. Born in Nigeria and raised in Dallas, Texas, Dr. Udensi's background has shaped his perspective and ability to connect with people from various walks of life.
Before attending medical school, Dr. Udensi completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Connecticut. Despite working full-time while pursuing his education, he excelled academically, earning a spot on the dean's list over consecutive semesters. Dr. Udensi completed an intensive internship at Yale University School of Medicine to further prepare for his medical school application process. This experience gave him valuable insights into the admissions process and the expectations of top-tier medical schools, which he now shares with students.
As a coach, Dr. Udensi's primary goal is to build a strong bond with students. He understands that each individual's path to medicine is different, and he works closely with them to develop personalized strategies for success. Drawing from his own experiences navigating the medical school application process and his current journey through residency interviews and final rotations, he provides valuable guidance and support to help his clients achieve their dreams.
Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, Dr. Udensi enjoys a wide range of activities that contribute to his well-rounded personality. He is passionate about weightlifting, tennis, meditating, martial arts, anime, BBQ, and engaging in various communal activities with his friends. These diverse interests not only help him maintain a healthy work-life balance but also enable him to relate to clients with different backgrounds and aspirations.
Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine
Dr. Lee received his MD from the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine and is pursuing an advanced anesthesiology residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital. While attending the Zucker School of Medicine, he served as an interviewer for the BS/MD Combined 4+4 Program and MD (hybrid traditional-MMI) interviewer and committee voting member.
View Profile
Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: Vassar College
Medical School: Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Fun Fact
Dr. Lee was a saber fencer for eight years and was on the Division III NCAA Men’s Fencing team at Vassar College.
Dr. Lee received his MD from the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine and is pursuing an advanced anesthesiology residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital. While attending the Zucker School of Medicine, he served as an interviewer for the BS/MD Combined 4+4 Program and MD (hybrid traditional-MMI) interviewer and committee voting member.
Before medical school, Dr. Lee graduated with departmental honors in Biology from Vassar College, where he was also Captain of the EMS agency. During his gap year, he worked as a research assistant at Northwell Health in Thoracic Surgery, managing a lung cancer database and publishing a paper on the benefits of robotic surgery for lung cancer. During his last year in medical school, he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society for excellence in academic performance and leadership. He will also be graduating with a Certificate of Special Proficiency in Medical Ultrasound.
Dr. Lee has always had a passion for medical education and helping students achieve their goals. He has mentored numerous pre-medical students at all points in the process of preparing to apply to medical school, from first-year college students to set them up favorably for the future to students actively in the application process. He specializes in a holistic approach to help students display their strengths beyond their academic records or metrics, allowing medical school admissions committees to fully appreciate their individuality.
Dr. Lee also brings first-hand insight to the CASPer test, having taken it as both a pre-medical and medical student, recently scoring in the top quartile. With Inspira Advantage, he hopes to continue helping even more students on their journey to becoming a physician.
Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Director of Advising
Dr. Lee is an anesthesiology resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital. He earned his MD from the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, where he served on the admissions committee and as an interviewer for the MD program and BS/MD Combined 4+4 program. With years of mentorship experience, Dr Lee brings valuable insight to medical and residency admissions.
View Profile
Dr. Eric L.
Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology
Education
Undergrad: Vassar College
Medical School: Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell
Fun Fact
Dr. Lee has served on both the MD and BS/MD admissions committees at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.
Dr. Lee is an anesthesiology resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital. He earned his MD from the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, where he served on the admissions committee and as an interviewer for the MD program and BS/MD Combined 4+4 program. With years of mentorship experience, Dr Lee brings valuable insight to medical and residency admissions.
Before attending medical school, Dr. Lee graduated with departmental honors in biology from Vassar College, where he was also Captain of Vassar College Emergency Medical Services. He also received the Bruce Gillman Award for fencing. During his gap year, Dr. Lee worked as a research assistant at Northwell Health in thoracic surgery, managing a lung cancer database and published a paper studying the benefits of robotic surgery for lung cancer.
During his last year in medical school, Dr. Lee was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society for excellence in academic performance and leadership. He also graduated with a certificate of special proficiency in medical ultrasound. He was also awarded 2nd place for his poster presentation at the Northwell Academic Competition. Dr. Lee completed his intern year in internal medicine at North Shore University Hospital/Long Island Jewish Medical Center, where he was recognized as Preliminary Intern of the Year.
Dr. Lee has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and Innovations. His work spans topics from robotic surgery to COVID-19 dermatologic manifestations and transfusion-related outcomes in cardiac surgery patients.
Dr. Lee is passionate about medical education and helping students achieve their goals. He has mentored numerous pre-medical students in applying to medical school and is heavily involved in residency mentorship and advising. Students Dr. Lee has coached have been accepted to Harvard Medical School, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, and SUNY Downstate.
As a coach, Dr. Lee specializes in taking a holistic approach to help students display their unique strengths beyond their academic record or metrics to allow admissions committees to fully appreciate an applicant’s qualities.
Dr. Femi O.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Director of Advising
Dr. Oyewole is a physician, educator, and admissions advisor with years of medical education and mentorship experience. He graduated from the Icahn School of Medicine (ISMMS), where he served on the admissions committee as an application screener and interviewer. Dr. Oyewole has mentored countless students in application strategy, interview preparation, and school selection, helping students gain acceptance to medical school and match into residency.
View Profile
Dr. Femi O.
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Fun Fact
When he’s not coaching applicants or refining his own projects, Dr. Oyewole enjoys electronic music production, gaming, and exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and medicine.
Dr. Oyewole is a physician, educator, and admissions advisor with years of medical education and mentorship experience. He graduated from the Icahn School of Medicine (ISMMS), where he served on the admissions committee as an application screener and interviewer. Dr. Oyewole has mentored countless students in application strategy, interview preparation, and school selection, helping students gain acceptance to medical school and match into residency.
Before attending the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dr. Oyewole graduated with a BS in biochemistry & molecular biology with a minor in mathematics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. There, he competed in NCAA Division I Football with the Minutemen.
During his medical training, Dr. Oyewole was an integral part of the medical school admissions committee at Mount Sinai, where he reviewed and evaluated hundreds of applications, helping to refine admissions criteria and identify top candidates. His experience has given him unique insight into what makes an applicant stand out and how to craft a compelling narrative that aligns with an institution’s mission and values. As a Senior Coordinating Teaching Assistant in Anatomy, Dr. Oyewole played a pivotal role in integrating virtual anatomy software during the COVID-19 pandemic, earning him the Excellence in Teaching Award from ISMMS.
Dr. Oyewole’s dedication to mentorship continued throughout his residency at Stanford Health Care, where he treated patients in high-pressure emergency settings and mentored medical students rotating through the Emergency Department, guiding them through clinical decision-making, application strategies, and residency interviews. Students Dr. Oyewole has coached have been accepted to prestigious medical schools such as Duke, Columbia, ISMMS, NYU, Tufts, and Stanford Health Care for residency.
Dr. Oyewole’s approach to admissions coaching is highly personalized and strategic. He understands that no two applicants are the same and works closely with students to highlight their unique strengths, ensuring their applications tell a cohesive and compelling story. His greatest strengths lie in his ability to break down complex ideas into digestible concepts and to help students craft a compelling narrative from their personal and academic journeys, skills honed through years of teaching and mentoring. Whether crafting a standout personal statement, preparing for high-stakes interviews, or navigating school selection, Dr. Oyewole equips students with the tools and confidence they need to succeed.
Beyond his work in medical education, Dr. Oyewole has a diverse range of interests. He is an avid skier and snowboarder and currently works as a ski instructor in Lake Tahoe. He is also passionate about content creation, producing educational videos on ADHD, medical education, and productivity.
Dr. Oyewole brings a well-rounded and forward-thinking perspective to admissions consulting. His background as a physician, educator, and mentor—coupled with his firsthand experience in medical school admissions—makes him a valuable resource for students seeking a competitive edge in the application process.
Dr. Gene S.
Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Saltzberg is an emergency medicine physician and educator with over 40 years of clinical, medical education, and admissions experience. His expertise in medical admissions is unparalleled, with 35 years as a medical school admissions committee member and interviewer at the Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School, evaluating and interviewing thousands of applicants. He has also served as an undergraduate pre-med advisor at Northwestern University.
View Profile
Dr. Gene S.
Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Medical School: Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School
Fun Fact
Dr. Saltzberg’s interests include biking, hiking, and golf.
Dr. Saltzberg is an emergency medicine physician and educator with over 40 years of clinical, medical education, and admissions experience. His expertise in medical admissions is unparalleled, with 35 years as a medical school admissions committee member and interviewer at the Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School, evaluating and interviewing thousands of applicants. He has also served as an undergraduate pre-med advisor at Northwestern University.
Dr. Saltzberg holds a BA in psychology, graduating cum laude from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and earned his MD from the Chicago Medical School. Dr. Saltzberg completed his pediatrics residency at Northwestern University’s Children’s Memorial Hospital and later pursued advanced training in emergency medicine at the University of Nevada, marking his transition into the field at the very birth of emergency medicine.
Dr. Saltzberg has served as an associate professor at a highly ranked medical school and has been a dedicated medical educator for decades. He has held significant leadership roles, including Chief of Staff at his hospital for 22 years. He is a Fellow and Founding Member of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine, where he actively contributes to the Physician Wellness and Government Affairs Committees. His commitment to service extends beyond the hospital, as he has volunteered as a medical advisor to Lamb’s Farm since 1987, improving the quality of life for 160 adults with cognitive disabilities.
Currently, Dr. Saltzberg is an Associate Professor at the Chicago Medical School’s Department of Emergency Medicine. A published author, he recently co-authored “An Ethical Analysis of the Arguments For and Against Covid-19 Vaccine Mandates” in the Journal of Emergency Medicine.
Dr. Saltzberg’s mentorship has helped students gain acceptance to top institutions, including the Chicago Medical School, Boston College, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Rush University Medical School, and Loyola University School of Medicine, among others. He is known for his holistic, student-centered approach to coaching, supporting a diverse range of applicants.
Dr. Hari A.
McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Houston
Director of Advising
Dr. Athreya is a family medicine physician, mentor, and leader with extensive clinical and medical education experience. He is the Medical Director and Market Lead at Crossover Health, has interned with the World Health Organization, and volunteered with AmeriCorps, providing disaster relief and community support. With years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Athreya is a knowledgeable guide for students navigating the medical school or residency admissions processes.
View Profile
Dr. Hari A.
McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Houston
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Family Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Rice University Medical School: McGovern Medical School at University of Texas Health Houston
Fun Fact
Dr. Athreya took a gap year before medical school to work abroad in Ghana and India.
Dr. Athreya is a family medicine physician, mentor, and leader with extensive clinical and medical education experience. He is the Medical Director and Market Lead at Crossover Health, has interned with the World Health Organization, and volunteered with AmeriCorps, providing disaster relief and community support. With years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Athreya is a knowledgeable guide for students navigating the medical school or residency admissions processes.
Dr. Athreya earned his BA in kinesiology and exercise science from Rice University before pursuing both an MPH and MD at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He has completed multiple prestigious fellowships, including the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship, Population Health Postdoctoral Fellowship through the University of Texas System, and the Preventive Medicine Fellowship at Emory University. He completed his family medicine residency at the University of Chicago, where he served as Chief Resident.
With a passion for guiding aspiring healthcare professionals, Dr. Athreya successfully mentored numerous students and professionals on how to navigate the rigorous journey to medical school and secure placements in highly competitive residency programs. Drawing on his own experience, years of admissions experience in a decision-making capacity, and expertise in family medicine, Dr. Athreya is committed to providing personalized advice on application strategies, interview preparation, and the development of strong, competitive candidacies.
Dr. Athreya’s approachable and supportive mentorship style makes him a trusted resource for students navigating medical school admissions and residency matching. Flexible and adaptable, he fosters a collaborative, conversational atmosphere where plans evolve based on students' individual needs. Additionally, his efficiency, creativity, and attention to detail ensure that students put forth the strongest possible applications.
Dr. Harshini T.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Turner is a dual-trained medical oncologist and pediatrician with 15+ years of clinical experience and 20+ years of leadership in global pharmaceutical research and oncology drug development. Dr. Turner has contributed to groundbreaking work in cancer therapeutics and is a published author in her field. With nearly 30 years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Turner has served as Admissions Screener, Admissions Coordinator, and Admissions Director for several schools in the U.S., U.K., EU, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.
View Profile
Dr. Harshini T.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases, Medical Oncology
Education
Undergrad: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Medical School: University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Turner has more than two decades of leadership in global pharmaceutical research.
Dr. Turner is a dual-trained medical oncologist and pediatrician with 15+ years of clinical experience and 20+ years of leadership in global pharmaceutical research and oncology drug development. Dr. Turner has contributed to groundbreaking work in cancer therapeutics and is a published author in her field. With nearly 30 years of admissions and mentorship experience, Dr. Turner has served as Admissions Screener, Admissions Coordinator, and Admissions Director for several schools in the U.S., U.K., EU, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.
Dr. Turner holds an MBBS/MD from the University of Maiduguri and Hammersmith Hospital, London. She completed her advanced training in pediatrics and infectious disease, with a fellowship in medical oncology through programs at the University of Ilorin, University of Ibadan, McGill University, and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
Dr. Turner brings 29 years of mentorship and admissions consulting experience, working with students across the globe. Her approach blends academic rigor with compassionate guidance, helping international and domestic students gain admission to top-tier medical institutions such as Johns Hopkins, Duke, the University of North Carolina, McGill, University College Hospital London, and many more.
Dr. Turner has served on admissions committees in the U.S., UK, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and the EU in roles ranging from assistant screener to Director of Admissions. Her insider perspective, paired with her deep understanding of both the academic and healthcare landscapes, makes her an invaluable advisor for students applying to medical school, residency, and international universities.
With years of experience as a Senior Medical Director, Dr. Turner’s passions are new drug development to cure cancer and also to support prospective students on their paths toward becoming physicians. Dr Turner's passion is to continue to make a difference in the lives of people she comes in contact with.
Dr. Henry B.
Stanford University School of Medicine
Dr. Bair is an ophthalmology resident physician at Wills Eye Hospital and has mentored students for over 10 years. He is the author of more than 80 articles on narrative medicine, healthcare delivery innovation, and ophthalmology, which have appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Academic Medicine, and the Journal of Hospital Medicine, among others.
View Profile
Dr. Henry B.
Stanford University School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Ophthalmology
Education
Undergrad: Rice University
Medical School: Stanford University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Bair's undergraduate thesis was on illuminated manuscripts produced in Ireland between the 7th and the 11th centuries—a subject that rarely arises in conversation but one that he is always happy to discuss!
Dr. Bair is an ophthalmology resident physician at Wills Eye Hospital and has mentored students for over 10 years. He is the author of more than 80 articles on narrative medicine, healthcare delivery innovation, and ophthalmology, which have appeared in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Academic Medicine, and the Journal of Hospital Medicine, among others.
Dr. Bair received a BS in biochemistry and a BA in medieval studies from Rice University and an MD/MBA from Stanford University as a Knight-Hennessy Scholar. He brings a strong commitment to integrating innovative technologies and humanistic approaches to improve patient-centered healthcare delivery.
Dr. Bair's professional journey is marked by his dedication to research focused on applying cutting-edge technologies to improve the efficiency, affordability, and accessibility of healthcare. His contributions include establishing telehealth networks for eye care in rural Taiwan and developing diagnostic and surgical devices for treating orbital trauma in low-resource settings. These achievements have resulted in multiple patents and demonstrate his passion for leveraging innovation to address healthcare disparities and improve patient outcomes.
In addition to his impactful research, Dr. Bair is deeply invested in medical education and fostering meaningful patient-clinician relationships through cultural competency, compassionate communication, and reflective practice. He has applied this passion at Stanford University School of Medicine, where he designed and taught courses on healthcare leadership, digital health, and patient communication strategies, particularly in the context of serious illness. By sharing his expertise and insights with the next generation of healthcare professionals, Dr. Bair is actively shaping the future of medicine.
As a recognized voice in the medical community, Dr. Bair has made significant contributions to the field through his creative endeavors and thought leadership. He is the creator and co-host of "The Doctor's Art," a Webby Award-winning podcast that explores the meaning and purpose of medicine, and his TEDx talk on humanistic medicine has garnered widespread attention, becoming one of the most-viewed talks of 2023. As a writer who has published creative nonfiction and a podcaster who highlights the personal journeys of clinicians, he has developed a keen sense of storytelling and believes that crafting a strong story is key to creating captivating applications.
Dr. Bair's perspective is further enriched by his upbringing in Taiwan, working across several cultures, and studying the humanities (medieval philology and art history). As a result, he is passionate about helping applicants of diverse backgrounds piece together compelling personal narratives, empowering them to become compassionate, innovative, and patient-centered healthcare leaders.
Dr. Hesham H.
Ross University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Hassan is a double board-certified physician who earned an MD from Ross University School of Medicine. He holds two master’s degrees: an MPH from Chamberlain University and an MS in biology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Hassan completed his internal medicine residency at HCA Healthcare followed by fellowship training in hospice and palliative medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he served as an interviewer for the admissions committee and later joined the faculty as an assistant professor.
View Profile
Dr. Hesham H.
Ross University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, Hospice & Palliative Care
Education
Undergrad: The University of Texas at San Antonio
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Graduate School: Chamberlain University, University of Texas at San Antonio
Fun Fact
Dr. Hassan enjoys philosophical debates, playing piano, exploring fantasy role-playing games, and experimenting with new plant-based recipes. He also has a deep love for poetry, storytelling, and tending to his ever-growing collection of houseplants.
Dr. Hassan is a double board-certified physician who earned an MD from Ross University School of Medicine. He holds two master’s degrees: an MPH from Chamberlain University and an MS in biology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Hassan completed his internal medicine residency at HCA Healthcare followed by fellowship training in hospice and palliative medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he served as an interviewer for the admissions committee and later joined the faculty as an assistant professor.
At HCA Healthcare, Dr. Hassan was the Chief Resident of his internal medicine training program. At UAB, he served as the medical student coordinator for the Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, combining his love of teaching with a deep commitment to mentorship. Dr. Hassan has trained medical students, residents, and fellows—developing curricula that integrate narrative medicine, ethics, and communication skills into serious illness care. He is also the creator of a popular review series to help fellows prepare for hospice and palliative board exams. Dr. Hassan’s research has been published in the HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine and the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management.
Dr. Hassan’s strengths as an admissions coach lie in his ability to connect authentically with applicants, helping them identify their core values, personal narratives, and goals with clarity and confidence. With a keen eye for structure and storytelling, he helps students craft compelling personal statements and navigate the admissions journey with insight and intentionality.
As a coach, Dr. Hassan is deeply passionate about working with future clinicians and public health leaders, including those from non-traditional or underrepresented backgrounds. His coaching philosophy is rooted in empathy, strategic thinking, and a belief that every applicant has a powerful story to tell.
Dr. Hye-Jin C.
Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Clark is a resident physician in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) at Stanford University. She has eight years of admissions committee and mentorship experience, including serving on the Admissions and Interview Committee at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and acting as a medical student liaison at Stanford’s PM&R program.
View Profile
Dr. Hye-Jin C.
Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Education
Undergrad: Barnard College of Columbia University
Medical School: Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Clark is an avid runner, triathlete, and podcast enthusiast. She has been featured on the Medicus Podcast to discuss her “Wonder Woman Passion Project,” an initiative that spotlights “Wonder Humans” in healthcare and beyond.
Dr. Clark is a resident physician in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) at Stanford University. She has eight years of admissions committee and mentorship experience, including serving on the Admissions and Interview Committee at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and acting as a medical student liaison at Stanford’s PM&R program.
Dr. Clark completed her undergraduate degree in neuroscience & behavior at Barnard College of Columbia University, graduating Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude. From there, she pursued her medical degree at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and served as Class President.
During this time, Dr. Clark also worked as a Global Cause Partnerships and Community Fundraising Coordinator for UNICEF USA, furthering her passion for serving diverse populations. She completed her preliminary intern year at California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC) before starting her PM&R residency at Stanford. She now holds leadership roles in multiple national organizations, including the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R), the Association of Academic Physiatrists (AAP), the World Academy of Pain Medicine United (WAPMU), the International Pain and Spine Intervention Society (IPSIS), and the Society of Women Innovators in Pain Management (WIPM).
A dedicated researcher and educator, Dr. Clark has authored peer-reviewed articles on pain management, AI in medicine, and musculoskeletal ultrasound, with publications in journals such as Current Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Reports, Journal of Medical Artificial Intelligence, and Cureus Journal of Medical Science. As a resident physician, she has a passion for interventional pain management, performing arts medicine, and musculoskeletal and sports medicine.
Dr. Clark also devotes significant time to medical education, serving as the medical student liaison at Stanford’s PM&R Program and participating in various committees that focus on admissions and recruitment. Her nearly decade-long mentorship experience includes guiding students from diverse backgrounds toward acceptance at medical schools and residency programs at Loyola, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, the Mayo Clinic, and Mount Sinai.
Dr. Clark’s approach to admissions coaching is both structured and friendly, emphasizing compelling storytelling and strategic application building. She excels at helping applicants navigate primary and secondary applications, interview preparation (including MMI), and essay development, ensuring each applicant’s journey and motivations are clearly communicated.
Outside of her clinical and educational pursuits, Dr. Clark enjoys a lifelong passion for performing arts. She has performed on the Tony Awards stage and remains active in dance and musical theater, which informs her holistic perspective on patient care—particularly for performing artists.
Through her clinical practice, research, and mentorship, Dr. Clark aims to empower future healthcare professionals to confidently pursue their goals in medicine while maintaining her commitment to compassionate patient care.
Dr. Jack W.
Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin
Dr. Webb graduated magna cum laude from the University of Texas at Dallas with a BS in biology. He was part of the inaugural class at Dell Medical School, where the acceptance rate was less than 1%. Taking advantage of Dell Med's accelerated curriculum, Dr. Webb also earned an MPH. He has extensive experience coaching numerous science disciplines and mentoring high school, undergraduate, and medical students, and residents.
View Profile
Dr. Jack W.
Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin
Interests and Specialization
Radiology
Education
Undergrad: University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin
Fun Fact
Dr. Webb is a skilled drummer with over 16 years of experience. He particularly enjoys playing rock, funk, punk, and metal drums.
Dr. Webb graduated magna cum laude from the University of Texas at Dallas with a BS in biology. He was part of the inaugural class at Dell Medical School, where the acceptance rate was less than 1%. Taking advantage of Dell Med's accelerated curriculum, Dr. Webb also earned an MPH. He has extensive experience coaching numerous science disciplines and mentoring high school, undergraduate, and medical students, and residents.
Following medical school, Dr. Webb matched into the highly competitive integrated vascular surgery residency at UT Southwestern in Dallas, Texas. He completed two years in this program, gaining valuable surgical experience. Dr. Webb took a position as a research fellow at UT Southwestern, further expanding his medical knowledge and research skills. However, recognizing his evolving interests, Dr. Webb made the courageous decision to change his career path and pursue radiology.
Throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Webb has maintained a strong commitment to mentorship for those at every stage in their medical education journeys, from high school to residency. This passion for mentorship is a core part of his professional identity, and he plans to continue this as an active component of his career.
Dr. Webb's background as a first-generation college graduate from a blue-collar environment gives him a special perspective on the challenges faced by many aspiring medical professionals. Having navigated the path to medical school without familial guidance, he deeply empathizes with those seeking direction and is committed to providing comprehensive support to students throughout the admissions process.
With his diverse medical experience, academic achievements, and genuine passion for mentorship, Dr. Webb is exceptionally well-equipped to guide aspiring medical students through the complex and competitive medical school application process. His personal journey of resilience and adaptability in pursuing his true calling in medicine serves as an inspiring example for those he mentors.
Dr. Jacqueline C.
Washington University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Chen is a gastroenterologist practicing in Dallas, Texas. She earned a BA from Washington University in St. Louis and loved the school so much that she stayed for medical school, residency, and fellowship. Dr. Chen was selected as one of six Chief Residents, serving on the admissions committee as an interviewer. With a decade of expertise, she has guided numerous students through medical school and residency application building.
View Profile
Dr. Jacqueline C.
Washington University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Chen speaks English and Mandarin, and her mentoring style is flexible, friendly, and goal-oriented.
Dr. Chen is a gastroenterologist practicing in Dallas, Texas. She earned a BA from Washington University in St. Louis and loved the school so much that she stayed for medical school, residency, and fellowship. Dr. Chen was selected as one of six Chief Residents, serving on the admissions committee as an interviewer. With a decade of expertise, she has guided numerous students through medical school and residency application building.
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.
Dr. Jasmine L.
The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela is a psychiatry resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she is pursuing a dual general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship program. As a former MMI interviewer for the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) and group interviewer at her residency program, Dr. Liu-Zarzuela provides expert insights to students navigating medical school and residency admissions.
View Profile
Dr. Jasmine L.
The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Education
Undergrad: The University of Texas at Austin
Graduate School: The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela has helped medical students match with 25+ psychiatry residencies across the country, from coast to coast.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela is a psychiatry resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she is pursuing a dual general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship program. As a former MMI interviewer for the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) and group interviewer at her residency program, Dr. Liu-Zarzuela provides expert insights to students navigating medical school and residency admissions.
Her academic journey began at the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned three BA degrees in Plan II Honors, psychology, and music. She then pursued her medical education at the University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine, obtaining an MD and MPH with a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela has garnered numerous accolades, including the Association of Women Psychiatrists Leah J. Dickstein Award, the Texas Medical Association Lone Star Caucus Scholarship, and the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Fellowship. Her research contributions have been published in esteemed journals such as JAACAP Connect and the Journal of Affective Disorders Reports, focusing on adolescent mental health, social media's impact on mental well-being, and the efficacy of psychiatric interventions in primary care settings.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela's commitment to advancing healthcare extends beyond her clinical work. She has played a pivotal role in shaping policy through her involvement as an ardent advocate with the Texas Medical Association and American Medical Association, having played a key role in the acceptance of numerous resolutions.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela's approach to mentorship is characterized by her attention to detail, responsiveness, and ability to tailor her guidance to each student's needs. Students she has coached have been accepted to multiple medical schools, including Johns Hopkins, Columbia, Cornell, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Baylor, UT Southwestern, and others. Dr. Liu-Zarzuela has also supported numerous students who have matched with psychiatry residencies at Harvard McLean, Yale, Columbia, Baylor, UT Southwestern, UChicago, and several other programs.
Her diverse background and non-traditional experiences make her particularly adept at supporting students from all walks of life, including those from underrepresented communities, non-traditional applicants, and students facing various challenges. Dr. Liu-Zarzuela excels in guiding students through the complex application process, helping them craft compelling personal statements and prepare for rigorous interviews. Her counseling sessions are focused on motivation and goal-setting, tailored to meet each student's needs.
Dr. Liu-Zarzuela remains committed to her dual passions of psychiatric care and medical education. Her dedication to fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals, her clinical expertise, and her research acumen position her as a rising leader in psychiatry and medical mentorship.
Dr. Jenna H.
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Harowitz is a pediatric neurology clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital. She attended the University of Pennsylvania for her undergraduate education before graduating with an MD from the Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Harowitz served on the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, evaluating hundreds of applications and interviewing prospective students.
View Profile
Dr. Jenna H.
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatrics, Child Neurology
Education
Undergrad: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Harowitz’s research has been published in numerous journals, including the Journal of the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Neuroimmune Pharmacology.
Dr. Harowitz is a pediatric neurology clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital. She attended the University of Pennsylvania for her undergraduate education before graduating with an MD from the Perelman School of Medicine. Dr. Harowitz served on the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, evaluating hundreds of applications and interviewing prospective students.
Dr. Harowitz graduated summa cum laude with a BA in neuroscience (biological basis of behavior) and minors in chemistry and psychology. During her time at Penn, she was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. She also served as a teaching assistant for the Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology class and a major advisor for the neuroscience program, experiences marking an early passion for education and mentorship.
She earned her MD from the Perelman School of Medicine, where she was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and received the Henrietta and Jacob Lowenburg Prize in Pediatrics for her academic excellence and compassionate care. During medical school, Dr. Harowitz held numerous coaching roles as a peer tutor, clerkship mentor, and doctoring course facilitator. She was also heavily involved in Perelman School of Medicine admissions, interviewing countless PSOM applicants and gaining firsthand insight into how medical school admissions decisions are made.
Dr. Harowitz is now training as a double-board candidate in pediatrics and child neurology. She is a member of the Boston Children’s Academy for Teaching and Educational Innovation and Scholarship and teaches students at Harvard Medical School. She also has an active research background with peer-reviewed publications and national conference presentations in pediatric epilepsy, health disparities, telemedicine access, and neuropsychiatry. Dr. Harowitz has been published in journals such as Epilepsia, Spine, and Schizophrenia Research, and has presented posters at the American Epilepsy Society, Child Neurology Society, and the Association of Pediatric Program Directors.
What sets Dr. Harowitz apart as a coach is that she has both personal experience navigating medical school and residency admissions, and also an insider perspective from serving as an interviewer and member of the Penn Med admissions committee. She understands not only what worked for her but what has worked for a wide range of applicants with diverse backgrounds, interests, and challenges. She brings a strategic lens to application advising, helping students shape cohesive, compelling narratives that resonate with the values and priorities of their target programs.
Dr. Harowitz’s style is warm, approachable, and thoughtful. She is also a coach who knows when to push students beyond their comfort zones to help them realize their full potential. She believes that success in the application process is less about memorizing metrics and more about articulating one’s motivations, values, and goals with clarity and authenticity. Dr. Harowitz has a strong track record of academic excellence and leadership, with years of experience in teaching, advising, and supporting students at every stage of their medical journey. She is passionate about mentorship, equity in medical education, and helping students navigate medical school and residency admissions.
Dr. Jennifer T.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Talbott is an OB/GYN resident at Duke University. At the Mayo Clinic, she was elected national president-elect of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA), published seven peer-reviewed articles on women's health and medical education, and was interviewed by Reuters Health and ABC News for her curriculum on human trafficking for medical students.
View Profile
Dr. Jennifer T.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
OB/GYN, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Global Health
Education
Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Talbott tutored a family in Hyde Park who lived down the street from the Obamas. She sometimes would see former President Barack Obama drive by in his motorcade!
Dr. Talbott is an OB/GYN resident at Duke University. At the Mayo Clinic, she was elected national president-elect of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA), published seven peer-reviewed articles on women's health and medical education, and was interviewed by Reuters Health and ABC News for her curriculum on human trafficking for medical students.
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.
Dr. Joana A.
Yale University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Andoh is a resident physician in the ophthalmology residency program at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in molecular biophysics, biochemistry, and classical civilization. She went on to graduate with an MD from the Yale School of Medicine. With over a decade of coaching experience, Dr. Andoh is committed to helping aspiring medical students and residents take the necessary steps toward becoming licensed physicians.
View Profile
Dr. Joana A.
Yale University School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Opthamology
Education
Undergrad: Yale University
Medical School: Yale University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Andoh enjoys audiobooks, yoga, going to music festivals, tending to her plants, and making tea-infused syrups.
Dr. Andoh is a resident physician in the ophthalmology residency program at the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute. She graduated from Yale University with a degree in molecular biophysics, biochemistry, and classical civilization. She went on to graduate with an MD from the Yale School of Medicine. With over a decade of coaching experience, Dr. Andoh is committed to helping aspiring medical students and residents take the necessary steps toward becoming licensed physicians.
Dr. Andoh grew up in Illinois, attending the Phillips Exeter Academy. At Yale University, she was awarded the International Study Award and was named Student Marshal. During her time at the Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Andoh was awarded the Bay Area Ophthalmology Course Diversity Scholarship (BAOC), paying full tuition for a summer ophthalmology course at the Stanford Department of Ophthalmology. She also won 1st place for her poster through the Rabb-Venable Excellence in Ophthalmology Research Program. She also earned the Miriam Kathleen Dasey Award and Peter A.T. Grannum Prize.
An aspiring vitreoretinal surgeon, Dr. Andoh has published research on topics including diabetic retinopathy, carceral healthcare, and geographic disparities in access to care. Her work has been featured in the Journal of Ophthalmology, Journal of Ophthalmic Epidemiology, Journal of Correctional Healthcare, and JAMA, and has garnered over 100 citations. Her research and advocacy have earned her recognition from the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Women in Ophthalmology, and the American Society of Retina Specialists, as well as multiple poster awards.
At the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute, Dr. Andoh has been recognized with the Nicholas T. Iliff, MD, and Sharon A. Kress Excellence in Patient Care Award and House Staff Teaching Award. She was also named an MD Advocacy Education Fund Fellow.
Dr. Andoh has worked as a medical content writer and as a program manager for aspiring medical students. She also serves as a peer reviewer for JAMA and Nature Communications. She is excited to work with students and help them achieve their academic pursuits. With a structured yet flexible approach to counseling, Dr. Andoh offers the compassionate, friendly support students need to get into medical schools and match with their dream residency programs.
Dr. Joseph H.
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Hendrix is a physician leader specializing in anesthesiology and pain management, with 11+ years of clinical practice and leadership experience. He has eight years of admissions experience, serving on the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern admissions committees. Dr. Hendrix currently serves as Medical Director and Principal Investigator at Worldwide Clinical Trials, one of the top 10 global contract research organizations.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph H.
University of Michigan Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Auburn University
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Graduate School: University of Texas at Dallas
Fun Fact
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Hendrix demonstrates a commitment to global health through volunteer surgical missions with organizations like Solid Rock International and Health Volunteers Overseas.
Dr. Hendrix is a physician leader specializing in anesthesiology and pain management, with 11+ years of clinical practice and leadership experience. He has eight years of admissions experience, serving on the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern admissions committees. Dr. Hendrix currently serves as Medical Director and Principal Investigator at Worldwide Clinical Trials, one of the top 10 global contract research organizations.
Dr. Hendrix started his higher education journey by earning a BS in biomedical sciences from Auburn University. He earned an MD at the University of Michigan Medical School on a full merit scholarship, followed by residency training in anesthesiology and fellowships in pain medicine and cardiothoracic anesthesiology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He recently earned dual executive master's degrees in healthcare leadership and management from the University of Texas at Dallas, graduating as a scholar with high distinction.
His expertise spans clinical research, medical education, and healthcare quality improvement. He has held leadership positions at major institutions, including the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, and has served on multiple national committees, including the Vascularized Composite Allograft Transplantation Committee for UNOS, and advisory roles with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Dr. Hendrix is board-certified in both anesthesiology and pain medicine and holds numerous professional certifications, including Certified Physician Executive (CPE), Certified Principal Investigator (CPI), and Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ). His research has been published in leading medical journals, with significant contributions to understanding cardiovascular physiology, pain management, and perioperative care.
With 12+ years of coaching and mentoring experience, informed by eight years serving on admissions committees and as an interviewer at the University of Michigan and University of Texas Southwestern. During his tenure, Dr. Hendrix reviewed 800+ applications and was involved in the decision-making process.
Dr. Hendrix remains active in medical education and serves as a mentor to the next generation of physicians while continuing to advance the fields of anesthesiology and pain medicine through research and clinical excellence.
Dr. Joseph K.
University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Dr. Knox is a UCSF diagnostic radiology resident who also attended the UCSF School of Medicine. He was a member of the UCSF School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, where he reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, participated in applicant acceptance decisions, and served on UCSF’s diagnostic radiology admissions committee.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph K.
University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Diagnostic Radiology
Education
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Medical School: University of California San Francisco School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Knox has a passion for international travel and has been to over 30 countries.
Dr. Knox is a UCSF diagnostic radiology resident who also attended the UCSF School of Medicine. He was a member of the UCSF School of Medicine admissions committee for three years, where he reviewed applications, interviewed candidates, participated in applicant acceptance decisions, and served on UCSF’s diagnostic radiology admissions committee.
Dr. Knox was raised in the Bay Area and graduated with honors from Northwestern University, majoring in biological sciences. During his time at Northwestern, Dr. Knox was actively involved in peer tutoring and bench research, culminating in the completion of an honors thesis. Following his graduation, he invested his skills in Alzheimer's research at the Gladstone Institute in San Francisco for two years before enrolling at the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine.
In medical school, Dr. Knox continued to mentor and tutor undergraduate and medical students, and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He also completed a year-long fellowship during medical school to conduct multiple radiology research projects using semi-automated machine learning for the National Institutes of Health. He was awarded the Dean’s Prize for his research.
As a diagnostic radiology resident at UCSF, Dr. Knox displays a keen interest in academic radiology. He continues to mentor, serving as the resident liaison for the residency's Medical Student Teaching program. He has also served on the UCSF diagnostic radiology admissions committee as an application reviewer and interviewer. Additionally, Dr. Knox has tutored 50+ students and helped them succeed on their USMLE Step exams.
These personal and professional experiences have helped Dr. Knox develop a deep understanding of what top medical schools and residency programs seek in applicants, and he is eager to share his expert insights with students. He is passionate about coaching students and helping them maximize their potential as future medical professionals.
Dr. Joseph L.
Yale School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Ladines-Lim’s extensive educational background includes a BS from the University of Maryland, an MD from the Yale School of Medicine, and a PhD from MIT. He then completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Combined Residency at the University of Michigan and is currently an Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
View Profile
Dr. Joseph L.
Yale School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine/Pediatrics & Infectious Disease
Education
Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Graduate School: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Fun Fact
Aside from reading Harry Potter to his son, Dr. Ladines-Lim enjoys fine dining, a good gin and tonic, running, and various podcasts.
Dr. Ladines-Lim’s extensive educational background includes a BS from the University of Maryland, an MD from the Yale School of Medicine, and a PhD from MIT. He then completed an Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Combined Residency at the University of Michigan and is currently an Infectious Diseases Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
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.
Dr. Joshua A.
Weill Cornell Medical College
Dr. Andjei graduated from Weill Cornell with High Distinction and service-related awards. There, he served on the admissions committee for three years as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. Dr. Andjei has served on numerous admission committees and advised many undergraduate and medical students through the medical school and residency admissions processes.
View Profile
Dr. Joshua A.
Weill Cornell Medical College
Interests and Specialization
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School:Weill Cornell Medical College
Fun Fact
Dr. Andjei enjoys recreational sports leagues, playing bass, and creative writing. He recently started a vinyl music collection, has a deep fascination with sea turtles, and is actively learning to salsa dance.
Dr. Andjei graduated from Weill Cornell with High Distinction and service-related awards. There, he served on the admissions committee for three years as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. Dr. Andjei has served on numerous admission committees and advised many undergraduate and medical students through the medical school and residency admissions processes.
Dr. Andjei earned a degree in biomedical science with a focus on neuroscience from Cornell University before attending Weill Cornell. While in medical school, he played a pivotal role as an admissions interviewer and board voting member. This valuable experience sparked a keen interest in educational advising, mentorship, and academic support.
Prior to medical school, he honed these passions as an educational specialist for the New York Foundling, one of New York City's oldest and largest child welfare agencies. Dr. Andjei's dedication to education also led him to advise several undergraduate and medical students throughout their medical school and residency admissions processes.
In addition to his pursuits in education, Dr. Andjei actively contributes to the academic community as a reviewer for esteemed academic journals such as the Global Spine Journal and the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS). He also serves as a chief resident in orthopedic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Upon completion of his residency, he plans to extend his expertise further by pursuing a spine surgery fellowship at NYU.
Dr. Karam A.
University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Ashouri completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles General Medical Center. He graduated with an MD from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Southern California. He has four years of experience serving on the USC Keck admissions committee, where he reviewed applications and interviewed candidates.
View Profile
Dr. Karam A.
University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Southern California
Medical School: University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Ashouri is fluent in Arabic and Spanish. He enjoys exploring new technologies, organizing community health initiatives, and unwinding through outdoor activities like golf, snowboarding, and camping with friends and family.
Dr. Ashouri completed his internal medicine residency at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles General Medical Center. He graduated with an MD from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and holds a Bachelor’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Southern California. He has four years of experience serving on the USC Keck admissions committee, where he reviewed applications and interviewed candidates.
Dr. Ashouri also served as an admissions coach at the USC Keck School of Medicine, where he facilitated interactive, case-based learning sessions that empowered medical students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. His background in admissions, coupled with his years of experience in MCAT tutoring, gives Dr. Ashouri keen insights into what top medical programs seek at every stage of the admissions process.
Before medical school, Dr. Ashouri volunteered as an EMT with Royal Ambulatory Services. He takes pride in contributing to community and service initiatives, including his work on a medical device design team and assisting volunteer populations through the International Rescue Committee.
Dr. Ashouri has published 17 manuscripts, primarily focusing on hematology and oncology. He has led influential studies on immunoglobulins and CXCL5 as biomarkers in immunotherapy-treated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), explored AXL and necroptosis signaling in colorectal cancer, and conducted research on acute lymphocytic leukemia, resulting in multiple first-author posters at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the American Society of Hematology. Dr. Ashouri’s work resulted in him receiving two ASCO Conquer Cancer Merit Awards. He has also presented findings on non-small cell lung cancer with the American Association for Cancer Research and regularly serves as a manuscript reviewer for several academic journals.
Throughout his training, Dr. Ashouri has demonstrated academic excellence, clinical leadership, and a strong commitment to impactful research. He uses his unique admissions and clinical experiences to coach students in crafting compelling narratives and excel in the admissions process. Known for his collaborative, student-centered approach, Dr. Ashouri is dedicated to helping future physicians pursue their goals with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Ashouri’s strengths as an admissions counselor stem from his diverse experiences in research, curriculum development, and medical school admissions. He quickly identifies each applicant’s strengths and weaknesses, providing focused, actionable feedback throughout the application process. By drawing on his deep involvement in academic medicine and his experience reviewing and interviewing candidates, he offers clear, individualized mentorship, helping every applicant uncover their unique story and present their best self. Students value Dr. Ashouri’s sharp insight, talent for clarifying complex topics, and ongoing support.
Dr. Ashouri’s wide-ranging experiences in research, teaching, clinical practice, and admissions give him a comprehensive understanding of what makes applicants stand out. He is committed to helping students uncover their unique path and present their most competitive selves in the medical school and residency application processes.
Dr. Katherine M.
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Munoz attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine before becoming a resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years of experience in advising and tutoring students and five years in selecting, interviewing, and ranking applicants for medical school and residency. She currently sits on the admissions committee for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin.
View Profile
Dr. Katherine M.
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Education
Undergrad:California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Munoz played competitive softball for more than 10 years and still plays recreationally. She enjoys spending time reading, cooking, going to concerts, gardening, and training her doberman.
Dr. Munoz attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine before becoming a resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years of experience in advising and tutoring students and five years in selecting, interviewing, and ranking applicants for medical school and residency. She currently sits on the admissions committee for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin.
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.
News, Tips, Insights, and Stories From Our Superstar Team
Our experts are regularly cited in the world’s top publications. Click below to read their thought pieces and expert analyses on the admissions process and schools.