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Dr. Kelly L.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Lyboldt is an associate professor of practice at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she obtained a DVM and served on the admissions committee as an application reader. Prior to vet school, she attended Bucknell University, graduating with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry. She also has advanced training in veterinary medical education from the Royal Veterinary College in the UK. Dr. Lyboldt has 15+ years of clinical, teaching, and mentorship experience.
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Dr. Kelly L.
Title
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Small Animal Emergency Medicine, Small Animal Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Bucknell University
Veterinary School: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Lyboldt was an avid athlete in high school and was being recruited to play basketball in college. She tore her ACL during her senior year, leading her to shift her focus to her future career goals. In addition to being a veterinarian, Dr. Lyboldt is a cyclist, a skier, a triathlete, a dog mom, and a gardener. She is working toward becoming an Adirondack winter 46er.
Dr. Lyboldt is an associate professor of practice at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she obtained a DVM and served on the admissions committee as an application reader. Prior to vet school, she attended Bucknell University, graduating with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry. She also has advanced training in veterinary medical education from the Royal Veterinary College in the UK. Dr. Lyboldt has 15+ years of clinical, teaching, and mentorship experience.
Following graduation from Cornell, Dr. Lyboldt started an emergency service at a small animal specialty referral practice and practiced emergency medicine and surgery for 12 years. During that time, she also worked at a small animal/mixed animal general practice. Currently Dr. Lyboldt works primarily with first- and second-year veterinary students, teaching a problem-based learning course that integrates pathophysiology, pharmacology, anatomic pathology, and clinical pathology. She also helps with veterinary school admissions and has a decade of experience working with high school students enrolled in her small animal veterinary summer college course.
Dr. Lyboldt has been driven by her consistent curiosity and desire to grow and learn so she can better help others. At the beginning of her career, she was motivated by helping families and their animals, and she developed a strong interest in helping develop the new generation of veterinarians. Dr. Lyboldt has worked closely with specialists in various fields, including but not limited to small animal soft tissue surgery, small animal orthopedic surgery, radiology, ophthalmology, oncology, internal medicine, and cardiology.
Throughout her career, Dr. Lyboldt has gained extensive experience in various settings, including large emergency specialty practices, small animal practices, mixed animal practices, and now as an educator at the Cornell University Veterinary College. In addition to her role as an associate professor of practice, Dr. Lyboldt has worked as a course leader for Foundation Course IIIa: Function and Dysfunction, Foundation Course IIIb: Function and Dysfunction, and Veterinary Medicine: Science and Practice. She was also recently awarded the Faculty Teaching Award, Department of Biomedical Sciences
Becoming an admissions coach provides another opportunity for Dr. Lyboldt to help others achieve their career goals and reach their full potential, a role she finds deeply fulfilling. When working with students, Dr. Lyboldt takes the time to get to know them as individuals, not just as a collection of achievements. She believes that students develop meaningful attributes through a wide range of life experiences—qualities that are often not captured by traditional measures of success, but can truly distinguish them as applicants. Through these conversations, Dr. Lyboldt learns what drives a student and what they hope for not only in their career but also in their life. These insights can help guide which veterinary college may be the best fit and inspire meaningful topics for application essays.
Dr. Lyboldt’s extensive experience working with and mentoring high school students and veterinary students and her experience with the veterinary admissions process make her a knowledgeable asset. Her experiences and insights will benefit students who are navigating how to best set themselves up for admission to veterinary school, as well as individuals who are currently applying to veterinary school and want to present their best self in a competitive and comprehensive application.
Dr. Kelly V.
Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Voss is an emergency veterinarian at the Veterinary Emergency Group. She attended the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, where she currently serves on the admissions committee as an interviewer.
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Dr. Kelly V.
Title
Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Graduate School: Kansas State University
Veterinary School: Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
In her free time, Dr. Voss loves to ski, mountain bike, travel in her camper van, or hang out at home with her three-legged orange tabby cat.
Dr. Voss is an emergency veterinarian at the Veterinary Emergency Group. She attended the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, where she currently serves on the admissions committee as an interviewer.
Dr. Voss grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area before making her way to Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo to obtain a BS in animal science and a minor in biology. After taking some time to travel and gather work experience, she decided to pursue a Master's degree in public health at Kansas State University. This degree had a specific emphasis on zoonotic and infectious diseases. With her Master's in hand, she returned to California for veterinary school.
After graduation, Dr. Voss' professional journey took her to a large specialty hospital in Denver for a rotating small animal and surgery internship. She has been practicing emergency medicine in Colorado ever since, and has worked with and coached many interns and externs.
Dr. Voss takes pride in her teaching and career counseling capabilities. Her coaching experience, paired with her role on the Western University of Health Science College of Veterinary Medicine admissions committee, provides her with unique insights into the vet school admissions process and how to best position candidates.
Dr. Voss is passionate about helping students identify and highlight their unique strengths in their applications and preparing them for interviews. She has a keen eye for editing personal statements and essays, helping students capture their experiences and aspirations accurately.
Dr. Kendall D.
University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Donohue is a clinical fellow in the Harvard-affiliated Boston combined Residency Program in Pediatrics. She served on the admissions committee at the UMass Chan School of Medicine and received national grants for her health services research. She also spent four years as an MMI rater for the UMass admissions committee.
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Dr. Kendall D.
Title
University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Pediatrics, Neonatology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
Education
Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Donohue is an enthusiast of strong coffee and live music. She is a seasoned marathon runner who has triumphed in the Boston and Nashville races. She enjoys cooking international cuisines and has a love for dogs that’s unparalleled.
Dr. Donohue is a clinical fellow in the Harvard-affiliated Boston combined Residency Program in Pediatrics. She served on the admissions committee at the UMass Chan School of Medicine and received national grants for her health services research. She also spent four years as an MMI rater for the UMass admissions committee.
Dr. Donohue's medical education journey began outside of Boston, where she attended Vanderbilt University. There, she pursued a diverse academic path, majoring in neuroscience, Spanish, and biology. During her time at Vanderbilt, Dr. Donohue gained experience that shaped her future success. She served as a pre-med advisor, providing guidance and support to fellow students navigating the path to medical school. Additionally, she engaged in clinical research, graduating with several first-author publications, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. She also volunteered at various organizations, including St. Jude's fundraising, a local food bank, and as an ESL instructor.
Dr. Donohue's exceptional academic achievements and diverse experiences paved the way for her admission to the T.H. Chan School of Medicine, where she was part of the Population-Based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track, focusing on population health and healthcare disparities. At T.H. Chan, she received several recognitions for her achievements , including the Leadership Award for Distinguished Service and the Outstanding Accomplishment in the Longitudinal Capstone Scholarship and Discovery Course.
Dr. Donohue continued to excel, serving on the admissions committee and providing advice regarding the selection process. Dr. Donohue's community work also garnered recognition, as she was featured on local news channels for her efforts. During medical school, she also led advising groups and served as a medical school admission counselor, working with applicants one-on-one and in group settings. She was then accepted into her first-choice pediatric residency program.
Dr. Donohue thrived clinically at the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, where she received several awards to fund her research. She values meaningful patient connections and emphasizes the importance of enjoying life outside of medicine. She understands the complexities of navigating the path to becoming a doctor while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and she is committed to sharing her experiences and strategies with students.
With years of mentoring experience, Dr. Donohue has been guiding students since high school and continued through her undergraduate and medical school years. Now in residency, she provides self-empowerment and helps students lead their application cycles, offering guidance, advice, and edits while allowing them to take charge.
What sets Dr. Donohue apart as a consultant is her person-first focus. She believes that medical school is a unique experience that should fit personal needs and future desires, creating four years of great memories where one learns medicine and grows as a person. She prioritizes personal happiness in her life and with every student.
Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her detail-oriented approach and her ability to focus on both small details and big-picture thinking. She pays special attention to personal branding and how candidates present themselves in their applications, ensuring well-rounded care. With a strong focus on overall well-being, balance, and goal achievement, she takes an organized, hands-on approach that keeps students on track while fostering growth and confidence. Her ultimate goal is to guide students toward success—ensuring they gain admission to the program of their dreams.
Dr. Donohue approaches each counseling session with organization and focus, aiming to answer questions, alleviate anxieties, and organize students for a straightforward, task-based application process. Her passion for counseling stems from the support she received from countless mentors, networking calls, and advice throughout her journey. She feels indebted to them and is committed to giving back by helping guide the future of healthcare professionals.
Dr. Kendra A.
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Asklof is a veterinarian who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. At UPenn, she worked at the National Referral Center for Animal Models, completed an NIH research fellowship, and published multiple studies. She has mentored countless veterinary students, especially during the application process, highlighting strengths, school selection, and managing the stresses of applying.
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Dr. Kendra A.
Title
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Interests and Specialization
General Practice, Exotic Animal Medicine, Soft Tissue Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Bates College
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Outside of work, Dr. Asklofl enjoys dancing, running, yoga, reading books, and hiking with her husband, who is also a veterinarian.
Dr. Asklof is a veterinarian who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. At UPenn, she worked at the National Referral Center for Animal Models, completed an NIH research fellowship, and published multiple studies. She has mentored countless veterinary students, especially during the application process, highlighting strengths, school selection, and managing the stresses of applying.
Dr. Asklof graduated from Bates College with degrees in dance and biological chemistry. She has always wanted to be a veterinarian since the age of three and focused the majority of her studies throughout high school and college on pursuing this dream.
Dr. Asklof worked as an animal caretaker at Bates College, caring for the animals used in student research. This led her to pursue a thesis in developmental hypoxia working with lab rats during her senior year. Additionally, she sought out a research-based study abroad program in South Africa where she engaged in ecological student-based research in the Kruger National Park.
Dr. Asklof continued this trend, working as an animal health assistant throughout her four years at the University of Pennsylvania, caring for dogs at the National Referral Center for Animal Models of Human Genetic Disease. After completing her first year, she spent her summer performing immunological research as a National Institute of Health Merial Veterinary Scholar. Many of these research opportunities led to numerous publications.
Despite her experience and passion for lab animal medicine and research, Dr. Asklof instead elected to explore general practice after graduating, where she applied many of her skills working with laboratory animals in working with exotic pets. She spent her first years practicing seeing about a 50% exotics/wildlife caseload. She has a strong interest in soft tissue surgery for more traditional companion animals as well as exotics and wildlife. While at this practice, Dr. Asklof mentored numerous Penn Vet fourth-year students completing their exotics rotation during their clinical year.
Dr. Asklof has always been passionate about mentoring the future generation of veterinarians. She understands how difficult the veterinary school application process is and is committed to providing guidance to highlight the strengths of the applicant and help with school selection. Dr. Asklof can provide a perspective on what associates in general practice deal with daily. Her greatest strength as a mentor is her strong organizational skills, her passion for editing resumes and essays, and her ability to have some fun despite the stressors of applications.
Dr. Kenneth B.
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Burris graduated from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he also served as an admissions committee reviewer for five years. He double-majored in biomedical engineering and sociology with a minor in Africana studies from Tufts University and an MS in medical science from Hampton University Graduate College before attending vet school.
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Dr. Kenneth B.
Title
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Small Animal Medicine, Surgery, Preventive Medicine, Shelter Medicine, Public Health, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, Cardiology, Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Tufts University
Graduate School: Hampton University Graduate College
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Burris loves reading, traveling, going to the gym, drinking coffee, running, playing tennis and soccer, going to the movies, watching professional sports, going to concerts, and taking care of his two dogs, Nyah and Bohdi.
Dr. Burris graduated from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he also served as an admissions committee reviewer for five years. He double-majored in biomedical engineering and sociology with a minor in Africana studies from Tufts University and an MS in medical science from Hampton University Graduate College before attending vet school.
A native Washingtonian and born in Washington, D.C., Dr. Burris was raised in Montgomery County, MD. He graduated from Georgetown Preparatory School, where he was Co-President of the Black Student Association and was inducted into the United States Spanish National Honor Society. He was also nominated to be an exchange student, studying abroad in Zaragoza, Spain.
During his undergraduate career, Dr. Burris served as the Vice-President of the Tufts Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students (MAPS). Throughout his time in vet school, Dr. Burris was a member of the student government as a Diversity Committee Representative and completed a business minor in health sciences at the Ohio State Fisher College of Business. After graduation, Dr. Burris matched into a small animal medicine and surgery internship at Tufts Veterinary Emergency and Treatment Specialties Hospital.
As a child, Dr. Burris grew up with many pets, including two dogs, four rabbits, 10 gerbils, an iguana, a newt, a ferret, several fish, and 15 ducks. Dr. Burris has always had a passion for both medicine and animals; though he never saw a veterinarian who looked like him growing up, so he was hesitant at first to apply to veterinary medical school. He has since had two articles published in Veterinary Professionals’ Next Gen detailing his experience as a vet student and anti-racism in veterinary medicine.
Today, Dr. Burris works as an adjunct professor and instructor at American University, where he teaches multiple courses surrounding auscultation/cardiology, injections, microscopy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, suturing, dissection, and other veterinary medicine skills. He also works as a faculty professor with Loop Abroad and as an instructor and veterinarian at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Dr. Burris’ professional interests include public health/preventive medicine, regulatory medicine, shelter medicine, primary care and urgent care, the human-animal bond, ophthalmology, dermatology, cardiology, general dentistry, and surgery.
As a counselor, Dr. Burris brings over seven years of mentorship experience, guiding aspiring veterinary students through application strategy, interview preparation, and scholarship planning. He is passionate about supporting applicants from all backgrounds to help them build confidence and maximize their chances of vet school success.
Dr. Kerry S.
Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Director of Advising
Dr. Sondgeroth is a senior staff veterinarian with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and a former associate professor at the University of Wyoming. With over 11 years of mentorship and coaching experience, she has guided aspiring veterinarians to successful admission at top veterinary programs, including Colorado State University, Washington State University, Midwestern University, and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine.
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Dr. Kerry S.
Title
Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Veterinary Infectious Diseases,Microbiology, Veterinary Diagnostic Medicine
Education
Dr. Sondgeroth has published over 25 research papers and taught three different courses associated with the University of Wyoming/Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory.
Fun Fact
Undergrad: University of New Hampshire
Vet School: Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biological Sciences
Graduate School: Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Sondgeroth is a senior staff veterinarian with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and a former associate professor at the University of Wyoming. With over 11 years of mentorship and coaching experience, she has guided aspiring veterinarians to successful admission at top veterinary programs, including Colorado State University, Washington State University, Midwestern University, and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Sondgeroth attended the University of New Hampshire, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry. After college, she earned a DVM from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences before completing both a residency in veterinary microbiology and a PhD at Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Her diverse background in academia, diagnostics, and regulatory medicine allows her to offer students a comprehensive and practical understanding of the veterinary field.
Passionate about research, Dr. Sondgeroth worked in several research laboratories during college and veterinary school. She traveled to the Okavango Delta in Botswana to collaborate with colleagues researching lion lentivirus in African Lions, and spent a summer in Madagascar working with anthropologists and collecting blood samples from ring-tailed lemurs. Following completion of her PhD, she became a professor at the University of Wyoming and ran her own research lab that focused on bacterial diseases at the wildlife-livestock interface.
Dr. Sondgeroth’s expertise is in veterinary diagnostic medicine, and she has consulted with many clinicians regarding difficult cases, disease outbreaks, or when human health is jeopardized. She has diagnosed anthrax, brucellosis, plague, tularemia, and rabies within Wyoming and has collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), State Veterinarians, the Public Health Department, producers, and pet owners. Dr. Sondgeroth has also been published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, received numerous research and academic awards, and secured over $500,000 in NIH grant funding as a principal investigator. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, received numerous research and academic awards, and secured over $500,000 in NIH grant funding as a principal investigator.
As a veterinary admissions counselor, Dr. Sondgeroth draws upon over a decade of mentorship experience working with undergraduate and graduate students in the lab, classroom, and in private settings. She genuinely cares about each student and feels that the greatest reward as a counselor is hearing about her previous students’ vet school and career successes. Dr. Sondgeroth is passionate about getting to know each student and making sure that their unique strengths are highlighted in their applications. Dr. Sondgeroth feels that guiding motivated and talented students will ensure the continued success of veterinary medicine.
Dr. Kevin K.
Medical College of Wisconsin
Director of Advising
Dr. Kwak is an internal medicine physician with 20+ years of experience in clinical medicine, medical education, and healthcare technology. He graduated with a BA from Johns Hopkins University before earning an MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he served on the admissions committee evaluating and interviewing applicants. Dr. Kwak is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, and practices at UCLA’s Ashe Student Health Center.
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Dr. Kevin K.
Title
Medical College of Wisconsin
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine, Healthcare Technology
Education
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin
Fun Fact
In his spare time, Dr. Kwak loves to travel the world, believing it deepens his empathy and broadens his understanding of diverse perspectives.
Dr. Kwak is an internal medicine physician with 20+ years of experience in clinical medicine, medical education, and healthcare technology. He graduated with a BA from Johns Hopkins University before earning an MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he served on the admissions committee evaluating and interviewing applicants. Dr. Kwak is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, and practices at UCLA’s Ashe Student Health Center.
In addition to his work at UCLA’s Ashe Student Health Center, Dr. Kwak has held roles at the University of Southern California and California State University, Northridge’s student health centers, giving him a unique perspective on what students need to thrive both academically and personally. Dr. Kwak has spent the majority of his career working directly with students to support their health, well-being, education, and career aspirations.
Dr. Kwak has also worked in health technology as the Vice President of Clinical Architecture at Point and Click Solutions, where he worked with universities like Harvard, Stanford, and the UC system to provide EHR (electronic health record) systems for their student health centers. His combined experience in medicine, tech, and education helps him guide students not only through the admissions process but also in exploring how their interests align with the future of healthcare.
A pivotal moment in Dr. Kwak’s career was serving as a student member of the admissions committee at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he interviewed and evaluated applicants. Moving from interviewee to interviewer gave him valuable insight into what makes a strong candidate and later transformed his approach to his own residency interviews, many of which drew praise from his interviewers. This experience also shaped his work as a medical software UI designer, where understanding the clinician user’s perspective is key. He learned through experience that empathy is essential—whether in design, medicine, education, or school admissions.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Kwak offers honest, practical advice—whether it’s crafting a personal statement, preparing for interviews, or helping students choose the right extracurricular activities. He understands what medical schools are looking for and is dedicated to helping students find their path and succeed. Having spent the majority of his career working directly with students, Dr. Kwak can quickly build a comfortable, trusted, and supportive rapport with applicants ready to make their medical school dreams come true.
Dr. Kevin O.
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. O’Brien graduated with a VMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and a Master of veterinary medicine from the Royal Veterinary College in London, where he also completed his residency in anatomic pathology. With 10 years of admissions committee experience, Dr. O’Brien has interviewed countless candidates as an admissions representative at the University of Pennsylvania, Royal Veterinary College, and NYU Abu Dhabi.
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Dr. Kevin O.
Title
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Veterinary Anatomic Pathology, Zoo/Exotics Pathology, Animal Health Research
Education
Undergrad: New York University
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: Royal Veterinary College
Fun Fact
Dr. O’Brien’s scholarly work has been published in top journals including Cell, Microbiome, and the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Dr. O’Brien graduated with a VMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and a Master of veterinary medicine from the Royal Veterinary College in London, where he also completed his residency in anatomic pathology. With 10 years of admissions committee experience, Dr. O’Brien has interviewed countless candidates as an admissions representative at the University of Pennsylvania, Royal Veterinary College, and NYU Abu Dhabi.
Dr. O’Brien graduated with a BA in biology from New York University, completing the Senior Global Academic Fellowship in Biology at NYU Abu Dhabi. At the Royal Veterinary College, Dr. O’Brien’s Master’s research focused on viral-induced skin cancer in horses, which earned him an ACVP Young Investigator Award, first place for his research project, and conference travel awards during his residency. He later returned to PennVet for a two-year Comparative & Laboratory Animal Pathology Fellowship.
Today, Dr. O’Brien is a board-certified veterinary anatomic pathologist and associate professor of Comparative Pathology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. In his role as a professor, Dr. O’Brien contributes to the education of veterinary students, anatomic pathology residents, and laboratory animal medicine residents. With years of national and international experience in veterinary education and mentorship, Dr. O’Brien brings a blend of academic insight, clinical experience, and admissions strategy to help aspiring veterinarians successfully navigate the competitive veterinary school application process.
Dr. O’Brien has reviewed countless undergraduate, veterinary, and veterinary residency applications and currently serves on the VMD Admissions Committee at PennVet. His firsthand knowledge of what top-tier veterinary schools look for—combined with his track record of mentoring students into competitive residency programs (UPenn, UC Davis, Royal Veterinary College, and others)—makes him an invaluable resource for pre-vet applicants. Whether students are refining their personal statements, preparing for interviews, or seeking strategic guidance, Dr. O’Brien is committed to helping them stand out and get accepted.
In addition to his admissions expertise, Dr. O’Brien is a passionate educator and internationally recognized lecturer with interests in comparative pathology, zoo/exotics pathology, and animal health research.
Dr. Kristen B.
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Bartholomew is an emergency and critical care veterinarian at a tertiary care facility in the suburbs of Philadelphia. She is the head of her hospital’s emergency medicine training program, where she mentors new veterinarians to become strong and confident emergency doctors. She has eight years of admissions and coaching experience, including serving on the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s admissions committee as an application reviewer and interviewer.
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Dr. Kristen B.
Title
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Care, Critical Care, Small Animal Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Ohio State University
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Bartholomew is an avid outdoorswoman and enjoys hiking with her golden retriever, Bubba, meditating, drawing/painting, and Olympic weightlifting. She was also a member of the Ohio State University Marching Band for four years.
Dr. Bartholomew is an emergency and critical care veterinarian at a tertiary care facility in the suburbs of Philadelphia. She is the head of her hospital’s emergency medicine training program, where she mentors new veterinarians to become strong and confident emergency doctors. She has eight years of admissions and coaching experience, including serving on the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s admissions committee as an application reviewer and interviewer.
Dr. Bartholomew's journey began at Ohio State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in agriculture (animal sciences) with a minor in neuroscience, graduating magna cum laude with Honors Research Distinction. She was involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including serving as Vice President and President of the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association, tutoring and advising students, and participating in two international research internships. One took place in South Africa, where she worked with great white sharks, seals, dolphins, and other cetaceans, and the other took place in South America, where she provided spay/neuter and other veterinary wellness services to underserved communities. She also received the CFAES Outstanding Senior Award and was an American Society of Animal Sciences Undergraduate Scholar.
At Ohio State's veterinary school, Dr. Bartholomew demonstrated her leadership through roles such as President of her class, participation in student organizations, and involvement in research culminating in a first-author publication. She received the SAVMA Senior Service Award and the Gertrude Hoeger Award in Clinical Biomedical Research. She was an active member of organizations, such as VCA, VIDA, and VetPrep, where she interviewed candidates and participated in new student orientation.
Dr. Bartholomew’s passion for leadership and service continued with a nomination to attend the Veterinary Leadership Institute’s Veterinary Leadership Experience (VLE), an organization dedicated to facilitating the growth of servant leaders within the veterinary profession. With a passion for travel and service, Dr. Bartholomew went to Thailand to study elephants and their cultural importance to the country.
After graduating magna cum laude with her DVM, Dr. Bartholomew pursued mixed animal practice in rural Pennsylvania and participated as a veterinarian for the Willow 300 Sled Dog Race. She has also written a chapter for the Five Minute Consult and continues to participate in Ohio State's file review process and the Veterinary Leadership Institute's Veterinary Leadership Experience.
In her current role at Veterinary Referral Center Malvern, Dr. Batholomew is an associate emergency veterinarian, Director of the ER Immerse Program, and the Externship Coordinator. These roles and her time serving on the Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine admissions committee have provided her with keen insights into how applicants can stand out and present their best selves to top vet schools.
Dr. Bartholomew is dedicated to helping new veterinarians grow and thrive, and she extends this same commitment to aspiring applicants. She enjoys guiding individuals through the admissions process in a way that feels manageable, attainable, and empowering. Her strengths as a coach include helping candidates with self-exploration to develop the most compelling application and encouraging them to maintain mental health while pursuing their passions.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Bartholomew combines her enthusiasm for mentoring with a holistic approach to guiding students toward their goals. She provides a structured plan for success while fostering a deep understanding of each applicant's unique attributes and desires. Her approach is grounded in genuine support and connection, ensuring that each individual receives tailored guidance that empowers them throughout the admissions process.
Dr. Kristen Peagler
University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Peagler has a DVM from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. She became the first veterinary extern at NASA under the guidance of NASA's Chief Veterinarian and was the first veterinary student to complete NASA's Aerospace Medicine Clerkship.
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Dr. Kristen Peagler
Title
University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Aerospace Medicine and Laboratory Animal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Presbyterian College
Veterinary School: University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Peagler is working toward earning a Private Pilot Certificate at a local flight school here in the Pacific Northwest.
Dr. Peagler has a DVM from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. She became the first veterinary extern at NASA under the guidance of NASA's Chief Veterinarian and was the first veterinary student to complete NASA's Aerospace Medicine Clerkship.
After graduating from Presbyterian College, Dr. Peagler attended the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. She has taken part in several community initiatives through the college, including the Dawg Trails Tour, the This is How We Role Grant, as well as the Georgia National Fair. She has also assisted Vets for Pets and People in a Lip Sync battle fundraising event for Project Safe. Dr. Peagler is currently a resident in the Department of Comparative Medicine at the University of Washington and will return to NASA for an internship. She hopes to make significant contributions to the field of aerospace medicine as it pertains to laboratory animal medicine.
Outside of her comparative medicine interests, Dr. Peagler has been heavily involved in her community and has helped educate and guide future generations of veterinarians of all ages. She was recently accepted into the Washington Veterinary Medical Association's "Power of 10 Leadership Academy" and is a mentor for students at a local Black Pilots of America chapter called "the Red-Tailed Hawks". Her interests include aerospace medicine, neurology, musculoskeletal diseases, and translational research.
Dr. Peagler has many connections and experiences within the field of veterinary medicine and aims to help students achieve their veterinary dreams. She looks forward to providing support in what can be a stressful but exciting time in student’s lives.
Dr. Kristy Y.
University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Yang graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine with a DMD and has practiced as a general dentist for four years. She also completed the ADEA Academic Dental Careers Fellowship Program. Dr. Yang was involved in admissions at her dental school for years, assisting with interview days and the admissions process.
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Dr. Kristy Y.
Title
University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Dentistry
Education
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Yang loves traveling and has been to 14 countries.
Dr. Yang graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine with a DMD and has practiced as a general dentist for four years. She also completed the ADEA Academic Dental Careers Fellowship Program. Dr. Yang was involved in admissions at her dental school for years, assisting with interview days and the admissions process.
Dr. Yang is a first-generation college and professional school graduate from Dallas, TX. She obtained a full-tuition scholarship to fund her college education at the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences and sociology. Throughout college, she was a teaching assistant and served as a mentor for freshmen students. She was also involved in student leadership, volunteer work, and research.
Dr. Yang was awarded another scholarship when she started dental school at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She was also active on campus in student organizations and leadership roles, including serving as her Class Vice President all four years.
With her background and experiences, Dr. Yang confidently leads pre-dental students to craft strong applications and reach their goals. She has a strong passion for mentorship because she attributes her successes to her mentors who helped her navigate the admissions process.
Dr. Lake C.
Yale School of Medicine
Dr. Crawford is an emergency medicine resident who graduated from Yale School of Medicine. He continues to be actively involved in the education of medical students rotating through the emergency department. He teaches procedures, provides high-yield lectures, and offers valuable advice on residency interviews, drawing from his own experiences and insights.
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Dr. Lake C.
Title
Yale School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Emergency Medicine
Education
Undergrad: University of Kansas
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Crawford loves to hike and flyfish. Last year he completed the Colorado and Arizona trails. Since moving to Denver, he has worked on summiting Colorado’s 58 14ers (he still has 32 to go).
Dr. Crawford is an emergency medicine resident who graduated from Yale School of Medicine. He continues to be actively involved in the education of medical students rotating through the emergency department. He teaches procedures, provides high-yield lectures, and offers valuable advice on residency interviews, drawing from his own experiences and insights.
Before medical school, Dr. Crawford graduated summa cum laude from the University of Kansas with a degree in ecology. His curiosity and drive led him to pursue various experiences during college, including studying aspens in Colorado through an NSF grant, interning at the world's largest country radio talk show in Nashville, and working in an orthopedic clinic at a ski resort.
During college his undergraduate years, Dr. Crawford worked as a teaching assistant for introductory biology, advanced biology, and organic chemistry I and II and advanced biology courses, as well as organic chemistry I and II. In these roles, he led lectures, organized small group review sessions, and graded exams, honing his skills in effective communication and student engagement.
Dr. Crawford's passion for medicine led him to the Yale School of Medicine, where his exceptional performance earned him the prize for education in Emergency Medicine at graduation for his MD thesis.
Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Crawford has demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring. While in medical school, he shared his knowledge and passion for anatomy by teaching cadaver-based courses to high school and college students.
Dr. Crawford's genuine interest in helping others succeed has driven him to work with science and medically inclined students at various stages of their education, from high school to medical school. He is particularly passionate about assisting students with interviewing techniques and crafting compelling personal statements.
Dr. Lance Louis M.
Texas Tech Health Science Center School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Mwangi is a board-certified family medicine physician who is passionate about mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. He has extensive experience guiding both aspiring medical students and those seeking residency positions and has served as an interviewer for the HCA-Houston Healthcare West residency admissions committee. He has interviewed numerous aspiring physicians and reviewed their applications, giving him insight into what makes a strong candidate.
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Dr. Lance Louis M.
Title
Texas Tech Health Science Center School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Family Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Texas A&M University-Commerce
Medical School: Texas Tech Health Science Center School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Outside of medicine, Dr. Mwangi is passionate about traveling, watching films, and maintaining an active lifestyle at the gym.
Dr. Mwangi is a board-certified family medicine physician who is passionate about mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. He has extensive experience guiding both aspiring medical students and those seeking residency positions and has served as an interviewer for the HCA-Houston Healthcare West residency admissions committee. He has interviewed numerous aspiring physicians and reviewed their applications, giving him insight into what makes a strong candidate.
Dr. Mwangi's academic career began with a full-ride scholarship to Texas A&M Commerce, where he laid the foundation for his medical education. He then earned his MD from Texas Tech Health Science Center School of Medicine, entering as a non-traditional applicant through the Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP). Following medical school, he completed his family physician residency at HCA-Houston Healthcare West.
Dr. Mwangi spent three years as a JAMP coordinator, where he provided complementary curriculum support, provided advice to prospective students on the medical school admissions process, and orchestrated ice-breaking activities and team-building exercises to foster morale and social integration.
Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Mwangi has been committed to supporting his peers and future medical professionals. He served as a peer tutor for multiple courses, including organic chemistry and statistics, demonstrating his ability to break down complex concepts for others. His dedication to advancing medical knowledge is evident in his extensive research experience, including serving as an oncology research assistant for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. His research work has resulted in multiple publications. He has also been involved in significant volunteer work, including organizing free blood pressure screenings, CPR training, and providing food bank support to local communities in need.
As a member of the HCA-Houston Healthcare West residency admissions committee, Dr. Mwangi has gained a comprehensive understanding of the selection process. This experience informs his holistic approach to mentorship and admissions counseling. He thoroughly reviews each individual's entire application—from their experiences and scores to their background. His goal is to pinpoint each person's story, ensuring that every aspect of their application is considered. He understands the importance of highlighting one's experiences and background in creating a compelling application.
Dr. Mwangi's approach to admissions counseling is characterized by his attention to detail, his understanding of the holistic review process, and his genuine desire to help each applicant present their best self. Whether working with traditional or non-traditional applicants, Dr. Mwangi is dedicated to helping each individual find and articulate their story.
Dr. Laura G.
David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles
Director of Advising
Dr. Garvey is a board-certified vascular surgeon with 23 years of clinical experience, including 18 years specializing in venous disease. Passionate about medical education, Dr. Garvey has spent over two decades mentoring students, advising on pre-med curricula, arranging shadowing opportunities, and reviewing medical school applications and personal statements. As a former medical school admissions committee member, she understands how to position candidates as successful applicants.
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Dr. Laura G.
Title
David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Surgery, Vascular Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of Virginia
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles
Fun Fact
Dr Garvey comes from a family of nine physicians across eight specialties—she also has a son in his third year of medical school at Drexel University!
Dr. Garvey is a board-certified vascular surgeon with 23 years of clinical experience, including 18 years specializing in venous disease. Passionate about medical education, Dr. Garvey has spent over two decades mentoring students, advising on pre-med curricula, arranging shadowing opportunities, and reviewing medical school applications and personal statements. As a former medical school admissions committee member, she understands how to position candidates as successful applicants.
Dr. Garvey graduated from the University of Virginia as an Echols Scholar and a member of Phi Beta Kappa, ultimately earning a BA with Distinction. She then attended the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, where she received the prestigious Viola Hyde Research Stipend.
Following medical school, Dr. Garvey completed both a general surgery residency and a vascular surgery fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) before relocating to Atlanta. During her 23 years of clinical experience, Dr. Garvey owned and operated a successful private practice for 13 years before she joined a multi-specialty group, and later, a private equity–owned vascular clinic.
Dr. Garvey has spent over two decades mentoring and coaching students, drawing on her firsthand experience from serving on admissions committees at UCLA and UPMC. Throughout her career, Dr. Garvey has distinguished herself not only through her surgical expertise but also through her dedication to research, as demonstrated by her multiple peer-reviewed publications in leading journals such as the Journal of Endovascular Therapy, Surgery, and the American Journal of Surgery.
Coming from a family of nine physicians across eight specialties, Dr. Garvey offers a deeply informed perspective on the journey to becoming a doctor. She takes pride in helping others navigate the medical school admissions process, merging her wealth of clinical experience with a structured approach to ensure each student’s individual strengths shine.
Dr. Lauren F.
University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
Master Advisor
Dr. Fang is an internal medicine resident at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She graduated with a BS in biomedical engineering from Johns Hopkins University with departmental honors and an MD from the University of Toledo College of Medicine, where she graduated with Alpha Omega Alpha honors and received over $30,000+ in merit scholarships. Dr. Fang has eight years of coaching experience and looks forward to supporting the next generation of physicians.
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Dr. Lauren F.
Title
University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
Fun Fact
In her free time, Dr. Fang enjoys hiking, trivia nights, trying new restaurants, and attending stand-up comedy shows. She always seeks experiences that broaden her understanding of the world.
Dr. Fang is an internal medicine resident at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She graduated with a BS in biomedical engineering from Johns Hopkins University with departmental honors and an MD from the University of Toledo College of Medicine, where she graduated with Alpha Omega Alpha honors and received over $30,000+ in merit scholarships. Dr. Fang has eight years of coaching experience and looks forward to supporting the next generation of physicians.
Dr. Fang has contributed to 15+ publications throughout her medical school journey, with her research being published in the Journal of Wound Care, the Journal of Cancer Education, the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, and other renowned publications. Before beginning her residency, Dr. Fang amassed years of experience mentoring students from diverse backgrounds, including first-generation and low-income populations. She has helped numerous students gain admission to Ivy League schools, top colleges, and graduate programs across various fields. Her coaching success stems from a foundation built on empathy, precision, and a deep understanding of what makes an application truly stand out in competitive pools.
As an admissions counselor, one of Dr. Fang’s greatest strengths lies in her strategic thinking, her ability to quickly identify a student's strengths and weaknesses, and her talent for uncovering compelling narratives within each student's unique journey. She excels at working with students who possess non-traditional experiences and may be unsure of how to frame these into powerful application materials. Her engineering background provides her with analytical problem-solving skills, while her medical training offers insight into the healthcare admissions landscape, creating a multidimensional perspective that clients find invaluable.
Dr. Fang's mentoring style is warm, thoughtful, and tailored to each individual. She empowers students to take ownership of their narrative while providing the expert guidance needed to present their best selves to admissions committees. Dr. Fang's passion for coaching stems from her own journey as the daughter of immigrants and as a proud Midwesterner who understands the challenges of navigating complex admissions processes. She draws from her personal experiences to help students approach the often overwhelming world of admissions with clarity and resilience.
Outside of work, Dr. Fang is an avid traveler who has explored five continents. She maintains a tradition of sending and collecting postcards from around the world, which helps her stay connected to people and places that have shaped her perspective. Dr. Fang is also a fan of thought-provoking television series like Squid Game and The White Lotus, appreciating how storytelling in media intersects with themes of identity, morality, and culture, insights that often inform her approach to helping students craft their own compelling narratives.
Dr. Lauren M.
Medical College of Wisconsin
Director of Advising
Dr. Miller graduated with an MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin before starting her anatomic and clinical pathology residency at the University of Michigan. With nine years of coaching and mentorship experience, Dr. Miller has also served as a medical student interviewer at the Medical College of Wisconsin and as a resident interviewer for UMichigan’s Department of Pathology.
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Dr. Lauren M.
Title
Medical College of Wisconsin
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Anatomic and Clinical Pathology
Education
Undergrad: Marquette University
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin
Fun Fact
Dr. Miller is a mom of two and openly shares her experience as a parent in medical school and residency. She loves baking, reading, and exploring Ann Arbor with her husband and children.
Dr. Miller graduated with an MD from the Medical College of Wisconsin before starting her anatomic and clinical pathology residency at the University of Michigan. With nine years of coaching and mentorship experience, Dr. Miller has also served as a medical student interviewer at the Medical College of Wisconsin and as a resident interviewer for UMichigan’s Department of Pathology.
Dr. Miller began her higher education journey at Marquette University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in clinical laboratory science. During college, she received multiple awards, including the General Chemistry Award and being named to the Dean’s List all four years. She also won the Clinical Laboratory Science Explorer Scholarship and was inducted into multiple honor societies, including Alpha Sigma Nu, Rho Lambda, Order of Omega, and Alpha Epsilon Delta.
During medical school, Dr. Miller was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha and received multiple scholarships, including the V. Duane Rath Merit Scholarship, the Presidential Scholar Award, and the Quality Scholar Award. She was also recognized with the Medical Student Award from the American Society for Clinical Pathology and the Medical Student Travel Award from the College of American Pathologists Foundation.
Dr. Miller also earned a Master of Jurisprudence in health law with a certificate in compliance studies from Loyola University Chicago. Dr. Miller also holds certifications in medical laboratory science (MLS), healthcare compliance (CHC), and medical quality (CMQ). She has also completed additional education in healthcare management through Michigan Medicine's Health Administration Scholars Program.
Dr. Miller has been teaching MCAT prep for 10 years and continues to mentor aspiring physicians throughout her time in medical school. Since beginning residency, Lauren has mentored aspiring pathologists through the competitive application process. As a resident, Dr. Miller has received numerous accolades, including Best Resident/Fellow Research Poster and 40 Under Forty Honoree by the American Society for Clinical Pathology, Informatics Travel Award for the College of American Pathologists, and the Dr. Philip and Sandra Barney Resident Volunteer Service Award from the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
Passionate about quality improvement and healthcare regulation, Dr. Miller aims to combine her experiences as a medical laboratory scientist, pathologist, and compliance professional to design projects, lead teams, and implement initiatives to improve test utilization and patient outcomes. She enjoys collaborating with other medical specialties and advocating for greater visibility of the laboratory within the healthcare landscape. She has published articles on implementing large language models in pathology practice, the impact and future directions of telemedicine, and the utility of fluorescence in situ hybridization as ancillary testing with biliary brushing cytology.
Outside of residency, Dr. Miller is active in multiple professional societies. She serves as the junior member on the Biotherapies Leadership Committee with the Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies. She also serves as a member of multiple development committees within the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, as the junior member of the Informatics Committee with the College of American Pathologists, and as the resident member of the Commission for Science, Technology, and Policy with the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
Dr. Lauren O.
Quinnipiac University Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Okafor is an orthopedic surgery resident at Loyola University Medical Center. She earned an MD from the Quinnipiac University School of Medicine and holds a graduate certificate in advanced biomedical sciences from Georgetown University. With over 10 years of mentorship and admissions experience, she has served on admissions committees for both the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine and Loyola University Medical Center Orthopaedic Surgery Residency program, reviewing and interviewing applicants across multiple stages of medical training.
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Dr. Lauren O.
Title
Quinnipiac University Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Orthopedic Surgery
Education
Undergrad: James Madison University
Medical School: Quinnipiac University Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Okafor is a former Division I athlete.
Dr. Okafor is an orthopedic surgery resident at Loyola University Medical Center. She earned an MD from the Quinnipiac University School of Medicine and holds a graduate certificate in advanced biomedical sciences from Georgetown University. With over 10 years of mentorship and admissions experience, she has served on admissions committees for both the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine and Loyola University Medical Center Orthopaedic Surgery Residency program, reviewing and interviewing applicants across multiple stages of medical training.
Dr. Okafor began her higher education journey at James Madison University, where she graduated with a BS in psychology, was a Division I basketball standout, and earned the Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award. A former professional athlete, Dr. Okafor made the jump from sports to medicine.
Dr. Okafor brings to her work a rare blend of clinical insight, mentorship, and motivational leadership. Her passion for empowering aspiring professionals—especially those from underrepresented and non-traditional backgrounds—has guided numerous students to achieve acceptances at leading medical institutions, including the Medical College of Wisconsin, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Albany Medical College, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, and NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Okafor excels in helping candidates craft compelling personal narratives that highlight resilience, leadership, and purpose. Her background as both a physician and a former athlete uniquely positions her to guide students through high-stakes, competitive processes with confidence and clarity. With over a decade of experience in academic advising, editing, and professional development, Dr. Okafor has earned a reputation as a trusted mentor and advocate.
Dr. Lauren S.
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Seal's career is marked by 12 years of active duty service in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps, where she found her true calling in mentoring junior veterinarians and soldiers, ensuring their professional development and readiness. She also spent six years reviewing applications at Ohio State, giving her insights into what admissions committees look for in candidates.
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Dr. Lauren S.
Title
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Veterinary Preventive Medicine
Education
Undergrad: DePauw University
Graduate School: Ohio State University
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Seal has been married to her husband, Matt, for 14 years, and they have two daughters, Cara and Piper. She enjoys outdoor activities with her family, including snowboarding and playing softball. Dr. Seal is also an avid board game enthusiast.
Dr. Seal's career is marked by 12 years of active duty service in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps, where she found her true calling in mentoring junior veterinarians and soldiers, ensuring their professional development and readiness. She also spent six years reviewing applications at Ohio State, giving her insights into what admissions committees look for in candidates.
Dr. Seal graduated with a BS in biology from DePauw University before attending Ohio State University, where she earned an MPH and DVM as a U.S. Army Health Professions Scholar. Most recently, she expanded her expertise with a graduate certificate in global health. As a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, she has also mentored others in preparing for this challenging board exam.
During her military service, Dr. Seal completed three levels of the army's resiliency training created by the University of Pennsylvania. She continues to share these valuable skills to improve well-being among veterinary professionals, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance without compromising career progression. While serving, she provided quality care and support to military working dogs, wildlife, and livestock, as well as public health and food safety services to human personnel.
Dr. Seal’s strong academic background has helped her pursue her passion for advancing animal and human health across borders and cultures. She has participated in multiple global health initiatives and projects, such as conducting disease surveillance, delivering health education, and facilitating partnerships with local communities and organizations. She currently works as a veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital.
As a coach, Dr. Seal's approach is characterized by honesty, constructiveness, and a genuine desire to help applicants succeed. She believes in highlighting each applicant's uniqueness, passion, and drive, demonstrating how they can be an asset to both the veterinary school program and the profession as a whole. Dr. Seal offers candid yet supportive guidance, always prioritizing transparency with her clients. She is knowledgeable, approachable, and deeply invested in each student’s journey to success, with the ultimate goal of ensuring every applicant presents their strongest application to maximize their chances of acceptance.
Dr. Lauren S.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Schnabel is a board-certified specialist in equine orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, and rehabilitation who graduated with a DVM from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Schnabel joined the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine faculty over 12 years ago and has acted as Director of the Comparative Medicine and Translational Research Training Program and as an admissions committee member, reviewing 500+ applications and interviewing 100+ candidates.
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Dr. Lauren S.
Title
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Equine Orthopedic Surgery, Equine Sports Medicine And Rehabilitation, Stem Cell Immunology, Large Animal Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Duke University
Veterinary School: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: Cornell University
Fun Fact
Dr. Schnabel runs her own research laboratory and has co-founded several startup companies focused on medical devices and novel therapeutics for treating orthopedic injuries and diseases.
Dr. Schnabel is a board-certified specialist in equine orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, and rehabilitation who graduated with a DVM from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Schnabel joined the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine faculty over 12 years ago and has acted as Director of the Comparative Medicine and Translational Research Training Program and as an admissions committee member, reviewing 500+ applications and interviewing 100+ candidates.
Dr. Schnabel earned a BS in biology from Duke University, where she graduated cum laude and was inducted into the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. At Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, she received recognition for her surgical skills and dedication to the field of large-animal surgery, earning the A. Gordon Danks Large Animal Surgery Award.
As a veterinarian, Dr. Schnabel began her specialization in equine surgery by completing an internship at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, followed by a fellowship at Cornell University, where she performed research on regenerative therapies. Dr. Schnabel then went on to complete a large animal surgery residency at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, during which time she won numerous awards, including the Outstanding Clinical Resident Award and the Phi Zeta Manuscript Competition Award.
Following her residency, Dr. Schnabel completed a PhD in comparative biomedical sciences, centering on stem cell immunology at Cornell University, funded by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Comparative Medicine Training Grant. During her PhD training, Dr. Schnabel was awarded a five-year NIH Mentored Clinical Scientist Career Development Award (K08) and was also awarded the Cornell University Biological and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Research and Teaching Fellowship, which she completed to further her development and prepare herself for her current academic position at North Carolina State University, consisting of clinical work, research, and teaching.
Since joining the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine Faculty over 12 years ago, Dr. Schnabel has built a national and international reputation as a leader in the fields of equine orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, and rehabilitation. She has published over 100 peer-reviewed manuscripts in addition to numerous book chapters, has delivered over 150 podium presentations, and has received external and internal funding for her research work totaling over $11 million.
Dr. Schnabel is also well known for being an exceptional mentor to the many graduate students, residents, interns, veterinary students, and undergraduate students that she trains. She was named a North Carolina State University Faculty Scholar for her great success in her clinical work, research, teaching, mentorship, and community outreach efforts. She also received the Zoetis Award for Veterinary Research Excellence and the Ruth L. and Ned E. Hoffman Leadership Award.
Dr. Schnabel’s greatest strengths as an admission consultant lie in her extensive experience in academia, as well as her extensive experience and passion for mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and clinician scientists. Throughout her career, she has advised students of diverse backgrounds and experience levels, including several for whom veterinary medicine was a second career. With over 20 years of mentoring experience, she has advised many students who have been accepted to the nation’s top veterinary schools, including Cornell, NC State, Tufts, CSU, UPenn, Ohio, UC Davis, UFlorida, UGA, Texas A&M, Virginia Tech, and many more
Dr. Schnabel is adept at discovering and highlighting what makes each student unique and competitive as an applicant based on her firsthand knowledge of the admissions process. Her friendly and warm demeanor, combined with her strategic and organized approach, ensures that students feel comfortable receiving all the skills they need to succeed in their pursuit of a career in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Leora A.
The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Director of Advising
Dr. Aizman is a dermatology resident at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she has served as a residency interview coordinator for over two years. She graduated summa cum laude from the seven-year BS/MD program at George Washington University, where she previously served as a student admissions director. With over 25 articles published in peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Aizman’s research has been widely recognized and celebrated within the medical community.
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Dr. Leora A.
Title
The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Dermatology, Internal Medicine, Clinical Research, Community Outreach, Women And Children’s Health, Obgyn, Clinical Outcomes, Skin Cancer
Education
Undergrad:George Washington University
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Fun Fact
In her free time, Dr. Aizman enjoys exploring cities, trying out new restaurants, running, taking Peloton classes, and listening to audiobooks.
Dr. Aizman is a dermatology resident at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she has served as a residency interview coordinator for over two years. She graduated summa cum laude from the seven-year BS/MD program at George Washington University, where she previously served as a student admissions director. With over 25 articles published in peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Aizman’s research has been widely recognized and celebrated within the medical community.
While in medical school, Dr. Aizman became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and a Health Services Scholarship Recipient. Before starting her residency, she honed her skills by completing a clinical research fellowship with the University of Pennsylvania's Dermatology Oncology Center. Additionally, she has presented her research findings at major national conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Drawing from her own experiences navigating the competitive world of medical education and residency applications, Dr. Aizman provides personalized guidance to help students achieve their goals. Her passion for empowering the next generation of medical professionals is evident in her volunteer work as an admissions counselor at the George Washington University School of Medicine, where she dedicated two years to assisting students through the interview process before serving as an interview coordinator at Johns Hopkins University.
Beyond her impressive academic and professional achievements, Dr. Aizman is known for her compassionate and personable nature. She understands the challenges and uncertainties that medical students face and goes above and beyond to provide the support and residency application guidance they need to succeed. Medical students she has worked with matched with residencies at the University of Michigan, the University of Virginia, and Thomas Jefferson University.
Dr. Aizman’s coaching style is structured, providing clear plans and step-by-step guidance, yet friendly, fostering a supportive environment. She is encouraging, helping students build confidence through positivity while remaining goal-oriented and prioritizing measurable outcomes and milestones. With a detail-oriented approach, she ensures every aspect of an application is flawless.
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David W.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
David has over three years of experience tutoring biophysical chemistry & thermodynamics and serving as a biomedical engineering mentor. While at the University of Michigan, he was a co-captain of the Varsity Men’s Gymnastics Team and president of a gymnastics club for young kids with disabilities.
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David W.
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
David’s claim to fame is his ability to navigate schedules and motivate students.
Education
Undergrad: University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Fun Fact
David believes in creating a balance between work and play. He is an ardent fan of Marvel movies and enjoys exploring new coffee shops, going on hikes, and playing basketball. His recent two-month trip to Asia exhibits his adventurous spirit, and his current preparation for a marathon indicates his love for sports and fitness.
David has over three years of experience tutoring biophysical chemistry & thermodynamics and serving as a biomedical engineering mentor. While at the University of Michigan, he was a co-captain of the Varsity Men’s Gymnastics Team and president of a gymnastics club for young kids with disabilities.
David graduated from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, majoring in Biomedical Engineering and minoring in Biochemistry. He earned a cumulative GPA of 3.93 and a 4.0 science GPA. As a tutor, he is dedicated to helping students find the ideal study schedule for their success. David received a perfect score in the Psych/Soc section of the MCAT and credits his strong time management skills and use of a comprehensive planner to his success.
David is not just a tutor but a mentor who is keen to guide his students in their respective academic journeys. His vast knowledge, experience, and dedication make him an exceptional tutor for students preparing for the MCAT.
Dhruv S.
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Master Tutor
Dhruv graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience and a minor in computer science. He earned recognition as a James B. Angell Scholar and scored in the 100th percentile on the MCAT, showcasing his mastery of the exam. He currently works as a behavioral technician at Kyo Autism Therapy.
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Dhruv S.
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dhruv excels at guiding students through challenging sections with a 100th percentile MCAT score.
Education
Undergrad: University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Fun Fact
Dhruv’s work has been published in Nature, highlighting his strong scientific background.
Dhruv graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience and a minor in computer science. He earned recognition as a James B. Angell Scholar and scored in the 100th percentile on the MCAT, showcasing his mastery of the exam. He currently works as a behavioral technician at Kyo Autism Therapy.
Dhruv’s academic and research accomplishments reflect his dedication to science and medicine. At the University of Michigan, he conducted neuroscience research, served as an EMT, and volunteered to provide wellness education to youth in Ann Arbor. After graduation, Dhruv moved to the Bay Area, where he contributed to molecular biology research at the University of California, Berkeley.
After achieving a 100th percentile score on the MCAT, Dhruv has helped many aspiring medical school students create MCAT study plans and ace the exam, giving him insight into successful test preparation across various learning styles. Dhruv's personalized and unique approach sets him apart from other tutors. He takes the time to understand the applicant as a whole, not only as the sum of their subsection scores.
Dhruv provides support with MCAT strategies and content knowledge, helping applicants balance extracurriculars with MCAT prep while maintaining personal wellness during rigorous studying. He is excited to help students achieve their full potential and ace the MCAT!
Dhruv V.
Tufts University School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Before pursuing an MD/PhD at Tufts University School of Medicine on a full-tuition scholarship, Dhruv graduated from Temple University, where he was an Honors General Physics I and II teaching assistant. Dhruv’s score on the MCAT placed him in the top 1% of test-takers, and he now aims to share his strategies in tackling this challenging test.
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Dhruv V.
Tufts University School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dhruv served as a teaching assistant for Honors General Physics at Temple University.
Education
Undergrad: Temple University
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dhruv is an avid traveler—in one year alone, he traveled to a different city every weekend.
Before pursuing an MD/PhD at Tufts University School of Medicine on a full-tuition scholarship, Dhruv graduated from Temple University, where he was an Honors General Physics I and II teaching assistant. Dhruv’s score on the MCAT placed him in the top 1% of test-takers, and he now aims to share his strategies in tackling this challenging test.
Dhruv graduated from Temple University with a neuroscience major, a chemistry minor, and a certificate in linguistics. During college, Dhruv made significant contributions to platelet research, investigating the molecular basis for abnormal platelet activation in cardiovascular disease. His work has been published in academic journals, and he has undertaken scholarly projects in mathematical modeling, social determinants of health, and particle physics. Dhruv's commitment to research and scientific integrity earned him the prestigious Thermo Fisher Scientific Antibody Scholarship.
Dhruv's passion for scientific discovery and medical innovation is evident in his career goals. He aspires to be at the forefront of medical advancements while working to make quality healthcare accessible to all patient populations. His inquisitive nature and pragmatic approach drive him to find novel solutions to problems in biomedical research and healthcare.
Dhruv's approach to tutoring is personable, insightful, and focused on fostering both comprehension and confidence in aspiring medical students. He is committed to helping each student achieve their full potential and excel in their MCAT preparation. His tutoring style centers on reviewing high-yield content, crafting personalized study schedules, setting performance goals, and providing actionable test day strategies to maximize MCAT scores. Students who have worked with Dhruv increase their MCAT scores by an average of 15 points.
Outside of his academic and research pursuits, Dhruv has diverse interests, including motorsport, aerospace, travel, and watches. He enjoys rock climbing, biking, exploring local cuisine, and traveling to new destinations.
Domenic O.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
As an MCAT tutor with over five years of experience, Domenic excels in teaching the chemistry & physics and biology & biochemistry sections of the exam. His approach to tutoring goes beyond mere content review, incorporating elements of his philosophy on personal growth and self-mastery.
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Domenic O.
Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Domenic excels at tutoring students who struggle with discipline/motivation, test anxiety, and distractedness. His approach focuses on understanding a student's needs and adjusting the coursework to match.
Education
Undergrad: Temple University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Despite being an exceptional medical student, Domenic still occasionally stays up until the early hours of the morning and sleeps in until noon. He believes life is about balance, and sometimes that means letting go and being silly.
As an MCAT tutor with over five years of experience, Domenic excels in teaching the chemistry & physics and biology & biochemistry sections of the exam. His approach to tutoring goes beyond mere content review, incorporating elements of his philosophy on personal growth and self-mastery.
Domenic's academic journey began at Temple University in Philadelphia, where he graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in biochemistry. This strong foundation in the sciences has allowed him to strengthen his approach in regards to MCAT tutoring.
Domenic has set his sights on a career in surgery. However, his initial interest in psychiatry led him to co-author the book "The Anatomy of Habit Change," reflecting his interest in human behavior, personal growth, and overcoming obstacles. This background gives him a special perspective on the challenges faced by students preparing for the MCAT and medical school. Students working with Domenic can expect to be challenged not only academically but also in their personal development.
Domenic's teaching style is characterized by his enthusiasm for watching students grow and improve as they master both the coursework and themselves. He believes in pushing students to succeed both personally and academically, understanding that success on the MCAT and in medical school requires more than just knowledge retention.
With his strong academic background, medical school experience, and unique perspective on personal growth, Domenic is well-equipped to guide aspiring medical students through the challenges of MCAT preparation. His combination of scientific expertise and interest in human potential makes him a great resource for students seeking not just high scores but also personal growth on their journey to medical school.
Dr. Anusha B.
LECOM School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Dr. Bontha is a dedicated dental professional with a strong foundation in both clinical practice and education. She earned her undergraduate degree in biochemistry before completing her DMD at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Dental Medicine. She is pursuing advanced training as a prosthodontics resident at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, where she focuses on restorative dentistry and prosthetic treatments.
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Dr. Anusha B.
LECOM School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Bontha specializes in helping students with the DAT and navigating the field of dentistry.
Education
Undergrad: University of Texas at Dallas
Dental School: LECOM School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Bontha specializes in helping students with the DAT and navigating the field of dentistry.
Dr. Bontha is a dedicated dental professional with a strong foundation in both clinical practice and education. She earned her undergraduate degree in biochemistry before completing her DMD at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Dental Medicine. She is pursuing advanced training as a prosthodontics resident at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, where she focuses on restorative dentistry and prosthetic treatments.
Dr. Bontha has a genuine passion for teaching. She has dedicated many years to volunteering as an educator, tutoring various subjects, including math, chemistry, biochemistry, and English at the middle school, high school, and college levels. Driven by her unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their dreams of becoming dentists, Dr. Bontha enthusiastically shares her knowledge and experiences in the field. She possesses a deep understanding of the challenges faced by aspiring dentistry students during the DAT prep process. She is motivated to give them the guidance and support they need to succeed.
Dr. Bontha offers personalized instruction that combines her expertise in dentistry with proven teaching strategies. Her dedication to fostering independent thinking empowers students to approach challenges confidently and quickly. The marked improvement in students' critical thinking abilities and expanded knowledge base are shining examples of her effectiveness as a tutor, leaving a lasting impact on their academic journey.
Dr. Aryaman G.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Dr. Gupta is an interventional radiology resident who graduated from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine as an MD Merit Scholar. He has been tutoring for more than eight years, leading numerous students to 520+ scores on the MCAT. Dr. Gupta has also co-founded three startup companies focusing on developing devices to fill technological gaps in interventional specialties.
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Dr. Aryaman G.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Gupta has helped students score as high as 525 on the MCAT.
Education
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Gupta enjoys spending time with his dog, indulging in dark chocolate Oreos (which he insists are superior to regular Oreos), watching sports, and exploring his culinary interests through grilling and baking.
Dr. Gupta is an interventional radiology resident who graduated from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine as an MD Merit Scholar. He has been tutoring for more than eight years, leading numerous students to 520+ scores on the MCAT. Dr. Gupta has also co-founded three startup companies focusing on developing devices to fill technological gaps in interventional specialties.
Dr. Gupta’s higher education journey began at Duke University, where he graduated summa cum laude with a degree in biomedical engineering, earning departmental distinction for his exceptional academic performance. Dr. Gupta worked as a bioengineer before attending JHUSOM, a role he continued throughout medical school and residency. Throughout medical school, Dr. Gupta was awarded multiple research grants totaling over $300,000. He was also awarded Best Poster at a Johns Hopkins Medical Student Research Symposium.
Dr. Gupta’s passion for tutoring stems from the support he has received from great mentors throughout his life. Dr. Gupta recognizes the value of having a supportive tutor on this challenging journey, and he is dedicated to providing that same level of support to students.
Dr. Gupta’s greatest strength as a tutor is his keen ability to assess each student’s strengths and areas for improvement with precision. He believes that each applicant is different and should not be treated as fitting into a cookie-cutter mold. His sessions are structured yet adaptable, allowing students to take the lead in identifying their focus areas while he provides targeted guidance and resources. By maintaining a goal-oriented approach with built-in flexibility, Dr. Gupta ensures students have the tools and strategies needed to succeed on the MCAT or USMLE.
Dr. Astha P.
Boston University School of Dental Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Before attending the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Parmar graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology with honors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. With over five years of tutoring experience, Dr. Parmar has helped many students ace the DAT, with some scoring as high as 27 (550-560) on the test.
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Dr. Astha P.
Boston University School of Dental Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Parmar has years of DAT tutoring experience, specializing in the QR and RC sections.
Education
Undergrad: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Dental School: Boston University School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Parmar loves to spend time by the water while listening to music. She also loves dancing, watching sports, and finding new sweet treats as a celebration for little things.
Before attending the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Parmar graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology with honors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. With over five years of tutoring experience, Dr. Parmar has helped many students ace the DAT, with some scoring as high as 27 (550-560) on the test.
During her undergraduate and dental school career, Dr. Parmar mentored students during their transition into rigorous curricula while working as a peer mentor and matriculation ambassador. During dental school, Dr. Parmar served as the Boston University Vice President of the ADEA, where she constantly worked towards improving dental education while encouraging professional growth and academic success during dental school. Her genuine desire to see others succeed stems from having personally experienced the power of mentorship. Dr. Parmar is committed to paying it forward and empowering the next generation of dental professionals.
As a tutor, Dr. Parmar possesses a deep understanding of the DAT's nuances and works tirelessly to equip students with the necessary skills to excel on the test. Beyond the tangible improvements in test scores, the real success lies in the transformation of students' mindset and approach to learning. Students Dr. Parmar has tutored have been accepted to the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, among others.
Dr. Parmar excels at tailoring her lessons to target specific areas for improvement, whether it involves simplifying intricate concepts, refining critical thinking abilities, or perfecting time management strategies. As a result, students Dr. Parmar has tutored have not only achieved higher scores but also gained confidence in their abilities. Dr. Parmar finds it incredibly rewarding to see students not only achieve their academic goals but also flourish as confident, capable professionals in the field of dentistry.
Dr. Grant S.
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Master Tutor
Dr. Sprow is a dermatology resident in New York who graduated from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He achieved an impressive top 1% score on the USMLE Step 2 and is well-equipped to help students prepare for this challenging exam.
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Dr. Grant S.
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Sprow achieved a score of 277 on the USMLE Step 2.
Education
Undergrad: Harvard University
Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Sprow is double-jointed.
Dr. Sprow is a dermatology resident in New York who graduated from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He achieved an impressive top 1% score on the USMLE Step 2 and is well-equipped to help students prepare for this challenging exam.
Dr. Sprow began his academic journey at Harvard University, graduating with high honors and a degree in human developmental and regenerative biology with a minor in global health and public policy. After college, he moved to New York City to work in life sciences consulting before attending medical school.
At the Albert Einstein School of Medicine, Dr. Sprow extended his studies with a year-long research fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. This experience resulted in several publications on autoimmune skin diseases and helped pave the way to his successful match into dermatology.
As an experienced tutor, Dr. Sprow has developed a personalized and engaging approach to teaching. With a solid background in biology and global health, he is well-equipped to mentor students in various aspects of the medical field.
Dr. Laura S.
University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Dr. Sommpi-Montgomery is an anesthesiology resident at the University of Iowa. She graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, where she served as a peer tutor selected by the Dean’s office. With 11+ years of tutoring experience, Dr. Somppi-Montgomery is an experienced USMLE tutor who has worked with 200+ students, totaling 1,000+ hours of instruction.
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Dr. Laura S.
University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Somppi-Montgomery has tutored over 200 students in 11 years of teaching medicine/medical science subjects.
Education
Undergrad:Carleton College
Medical School: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Somppi-Montgomery has volunteered with multiple humane societies and has bottle-fed and fostered multiple kitten litters.
Dr. Sommpi-Montgomery is an anesthesiology resident at the University of Iowa. She graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, where she served as a peer tutor selected by the Dean’s office. With 11+ years of tutoring experience, Dr. Somppi-Montgomery is an experienced USMLE tutor who has worked with 200+ students, totaling 1,000+ hours of instruction.
Dr. Somppi-Montgomery’s educational journey began at Carleton College, where she graduated with honors and majored in psychology with a concentration in neuroscience. There, her exceptional academic performance and dedication led to her selection as a chemistry teaching assistant and tutor, a role she maintained for over two years. She also worked as a nursing assistant, giving her experience in managing work-life balance and prioritizing mental well-being—insights she now shares with students.
She then took a gap year to work as a research coordinator at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, OH, before attending the University of Cincinnati. There, she went above and beyond in her peer tutor role, designing and implementing a supplemental curriculum for both pre-clinical years—a program that continues to be used for student and tutor education today. Her dedication and teaching skills were recognized by her peers, with her tutoring sessions becoming so popular that they had to be moved to lecture halls to accommodate high attendance.
Dr. Somppi-Montgomery's academic achievements continued throughout medical school, as she scored in the top quartile for both Step 1 and Step 2 exams and received multiple merit-based scholarships. These accomplishments further underscore her deep understanding of the medical school curriculum and the challenges faced by students preparing for these critical exams. Following medical school, Dr. Somppi-Montgomery completed an intern year in general surgery before matching with her residency program.
In addition to her work in one-on-one tutoring, Dr. Somppi-Montgomery has authored a significant portion of a private tutoring company’s MCAT test bank. She was also selected as an editor and beta tester for the program due to her commitment to quality, timeliness, and deep familiarity with all aspects of the MCAT. She also designed a companion curriculum for M1 and M2 year students, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application and highlighting the significant overlap between MCAT and USMLE curricula.
Dr. Somppi-Montgomery’s ability to simplify complex concepts and foster student confidence has earned her consistent positive feedback, making her one of the highest-rated tutors in medical school. Her supportive and empathetic demeanor creates a learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and tackling difficult material. She is known for her individualized teaching approach, tailoring each session to meet the needs and learning styles of every student. Her expertise has led to multiple students achieving significant score increases of 10-15 points under her guidance.
As a tutor, Dr. Somppi-Montgomery is eager to help students achieve their medical school or residency dreams with actionable MCAT and USMLE tutoring. She employs a student-based educational model, tailoring lesson plans to cover high-yield subjects based on each student's individual learning style. Her comprehensive understanding of the medical school application process, combined with her experience in peer tutoring and curriculum development, makes her an invaluable resource for students ready to ace the MCAT or USMLE.
Dr. Mihailo M.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Dr. Miljanic is an upper-level radiation oncology resident at UT Southwestern Medical Center who graduated at the top of his class with honors from the University of Texas Dell Medical School. During medical school, he gained extensive experience as a USMLE tutor. He also taught AP chemistry and physics through Teach for America after graduating magna cum laude from Boston College with a BS in biological sciences.
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Dr. Mihailo M.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Miljanic co-founded the Health Career Collaborative–Austin, a mentorship program that has served hundreds of pre-med students.
Education
Undergrad: Boston College
Medical School:University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Fun Fact
Dr. Miljanic has a border collie mix named Stella. He enjoys playing basketball and tennis.
Dr. Miljanic is an upper-level radiation oncology resident at UT Southwestern Medical Center who graduated at the top of his class with honors from the University of Texas Dell Medical School. During medical school, he gained extensive experience as a USMLE tutor. He also taught AP chemistry and physics through Teach for America after graduating magna cum laude from Boston College with a BS in biological sciences.
Dr. Miljanic co-founded the Health Career Collaborative–Austin with two former Teach for America colleagues during medical school. This mentorship program has served hundreds of pre-medical students, reflecting Dr. Miljanic's ongoing commitment to supporting aspiring healthcare professionals. For his work in founding this academy, Dr. Miljanic and his co-founders were honored with the United States Excellence in Public Health Award, a national recognition from the U.S. government.
Throughout his medical education, Dr. Miljanic gained extensive experience tutoring and mentoring medical students for their upcoming USMLE exams. His expertise and dedication to education led to his involvement in the admissions process, serving as an interviewer for medical school admissions and a voting member on the residency admission committee at UT Southwestern.
Dr. Miljanic’s contributions to the medical field extend beyond clinical practice, as he has published multiple papers in prestigious peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing medical knowledge and research.
Dr. Miljanic's combination of academic excellence, teaching experience, and dedication to mentorship makes him an invaluable source of knowledge for aspiring medical professionals. His journey from a high school teacher to a top-performing medical student and now a respected resident physician proves his ability to navigate the challenges of medical education and career development successfully.
Dr. Nisha C.
New York University College of Dentistry
Director of Tutoring
Dr. Chauhan has been tutoring for over 12 years and has worked with 200+ students. She specializes in DAT preparation, and her notable successes include helping numerous students improve their scores anywhere from 3-5 points per section. Having scored in the top 99.7% of DAT takers, she has a deep understanding of how to help students excel.
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Dr. Nisha C.
New York University College of Dentistry
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Chauhan has been tutoring for 12 years and has worked with over 200 students.
Education
Undergrad: University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana
Dental School: New York University College of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Dr. Chauhan is passionate about art and design and has leveraged these skills into clinical practice. She participates in various art forms including, drawing, painting, and ceramics. She also loves to explore the great outdoors and visit every national park in the country.
Dr. Chauhan has been tutoring for over 12 years and has worked with 200+ students. She specializes in DAT preparation, and her notable successes include helping numerous students improve their scores anywhere from 3-5 points per section. Having scored in the top 99.7% of DAT takers, she has a deep understanding of how to help students excel.
Dr. Chauhan graduated from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana with a BS in molecular biology. After this, she matriculated to the New York University College of Dentistryand earned a DDS.
As a general dentist for over six years, Dr. Chauhan developed a strong foundation in patient care, empathy, and communication. During this time, she also discovered her passion for tutoring and mentorship. Her tutoring experience spans a wide range of areas, including DAT prep, dental coursework, and clinical skills.
Dr. Chauhan's expertise in helping aspiring dental students prepare for their exams and navigate the application process is particularly noteworthy. As a top 1% DAT scorer, she understands precisely how to help students succeed. Her tailored approach to tutoring has led to significant improvements in student performance, with one standout story involving a student whose biology section score jumped from 20 percentile points with Dr. Chauhan’s expertise.
Dr. Chauhan's strong sense of empathy, excellent communication skills, and love for collaboration, combined with her commitment to service, enable her to approach challenges with a unique perspective focused on each student’s needs.
Whether she's mentoring aspiring dental students or designing user interfaces, Dr. Chauhan's commitment to service, hard work, and empathy shines through in everything she does. Her diverse background and passion for helping others make her an incredible asset for students ready to ace the DAT.
Dr. Patrick R.
Boston University School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Dr. Richard is a practicing dentist with extensive experience in general dentistry and four years of dental staff training and DAT tutoring expertise. He holds a DMD from Boston University, bringing a comprehensive understanding of dental concepts and procedures to his mentoring role. His journey in dentistry and education equips him with expert insights to guide aspiring dental professionals through the DAT prep process.
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Dr. Patrick R.
Boston University School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Richard's goal is not just to help students excel on the DAT but to instill a genuine passion for dentistry and confidence in their abilities that will serve them throughout their careers.
Education
Undergrad: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Dental School: Boston University School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Richard is an avid golfer and has double-jointed thumbs, a characteristic that often intrigues students and colleagues.
Dr. Richard is a practicing dentist with extensive experience in general dentistry and four years of dental staff training and DAT tutoring expertise. He holds a DMD from Boston University, bringing a comprehensive understanding of dental concepts and procedures to his mentoring role. His journey in dentistry and education equips him with expert insights to guide aspiring dental professionals through the DAT prep process.
Dr. Richard's passion for teaching and mentoring began early in his academic journey, starting with tutoring peers in high school biology. He graduated with honors BS in biological sciences from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and minored in biochemistry and molecular biology. He was on the Dean’s List every semester and was a Massachusetts Office of Education John and Abigail Adams Scholarship recipient.
Understanding the challenges that aspiring dentists face, Dr. Richard is dedicated to helping students achieve their goals, both in their DAT preparation and broader dental career aspirations. His track record in clinical dentistry and academic settings has equipped him with the skills necessary to provide personalized tutoring. He excels in breaking down complex dental concepts into manageable parts, helping students build a strong foundation of knowledge. His experience in dental staff training also allows him to offer advice about the practical aspects of a dental career.
Dr. Richard's greatest strength is developing comprehensive study plans and targeted strategies tailored to each student's learning style. His approach combines in-depth knowledge of dental sciences with effective test-taking strategies, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the rigors of the DAT and future dental school exams. Dr. Richard combines his deep understanding of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning to help students master the DAT. His data-driven approach focuses on high-yield strategies, time management techniques, and targeted content review, ensuring students optimize their performance on test day.
Dr. Richard's commitment to student success is evident in his mentoring approach. He strives to create a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring challenging concepts. As he continues his work in dentistry and education, Dr. Richard remains dedicated to guiding the next generation of dental professionals.
Dr. Pranav M.
Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University
Master Tutor
Dr. Mellacheruvu is a resident physician at Penn Medicine. He serves on the Resident Steering Committee where he collaborates with faculty and program directors to shape the residency experience. Dr. Mellacheruvu has extensive mentorship in helping students craft meaningful medical school applications; he has also acted as an MCAT, USMLE, and college-level STEM course tutor.
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Dr. Pranav M.
Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Mellacheruvu has helped students raise their MCAT scores by an average of 9 points, and USMLE Step 2 scores by an average of 15 points.
Education
Undergrad: University of Washington
Medical School: Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University
Fun Fact
Dr. Mellacheruvu is a downhill skiing enthusiast, a diehard Seattle Seahawks fan, and a Carnatic classical singer.
Dr. Mellacheruvu is a resident physician at Penn Medicine. He serves on the Resident Steering Committee where he collaborates with faculty and program directors to shape the residency experience. Dr. Mellacheruvu has extensive mentorship in helping students craft meaningful medical school applications; he has also acted as an MCAT, USMLE, and college-level STEM course tutor.
Prior to medical school, he graduated from the University of Washington with dual credentials in biochemistry and interdisciplinary honors, balancing academic excellence with athletic pursuits. He was consistently recognized on the Dean's List during his undergraduate years.
Dr. Mellacheruvu earned his MD from the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University, where he was inducted into the Gold Humanism and Honor Society and recognized as a finalist in the American Medical Association's Top 50 Research Showcase. During his clinical rotations, he developed a particular interest in cardiology that continues to shape his career trajectory.
Throughout medical school, Dr. Mellacheruvu demonstrated his commitment to advocacy and research. He became involved with national advocacy through the American College of Physicians, working to promote the interests of internal medicine physicians and their patients. Simultaneously, he participated in cardiometabolic research collaborations with teams at institutions such as Massachusetts General Hospital, Duke University, Northwestern University, the University of Washington, and the University of Pennsylvania.
With years of tutoring experience, Dr. Mellacheruvu has guided several students through their academic and professional journeys. Students under his guidance have boosted their MCAT scores by an average of 9 points, and USMLE Step 2 scores by an average of 15 points. Dr. Mellacheruvu is an experienced tutor ready to help students ace the MCAT or pass the USMLE Step exams.
Dr. Simona Z.
NYU College of Dentistry
Dr. Zigmond is an accomplished dentist who has taught at Nova Southeastern University's Masters in Biological Sciences program for prospective dental students. In this role, she helped prospective dental students build a strong foundation and prepare them for the DAT.
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Dr. Simona Z.
NYU College of Dentistry
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Zigmond understands how overwhelming studying for the DAT can be, but she excels at helping test-takers conquer all their fears and jitters.
Education
Undergrad: Nova Southeastern University
Dental School: NYU College of Dentistry
Fun Fact
In her free time, Dr. Zigmond enjoys exploring the vibrant food scene in South Florida, trying out new restaurants, and experimenting with recipes at home.
Dr. Zigmond is an accomplished dentist who has taught at Nova Southeastern University's Masters in Biological Sciences program for prospective dental students. In this role, she helped prospective dental students build a strong foundation and prepare them for the DAT.
Dr. Zigmond’s educational journey began at Nova Southeastern University, where she graduated from the undergraduate program with a strong foundation in the sciences. She then moved to New York City, where she enrolled in NYU College of Dentistry.
Throughout her time in dental school, Dr. Zigmond discovered her true calling for teaching and mentoring aspiring dentists. She gained invaluable hands-on experience tutoring students in the years below her, which allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the curriculum and the most effective ways to communicate complex concepts. Her ability to adapt to each student's learning style is one of her greatest strengths, as she recognizes that every individual has tailored needs and approaches to learning. Her experience working closely with aspiring dentists has provided her with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities they face on their path to success.
As an educator, Dr. Zigmond is known for her patient and approachable demeanor, which creates a welcoming and supportive learning environment for her students. She takes the time to understand each student's goals and challenges, and works closely with them to develop personalized study plans that maximize their potential for success. Her passion for teaching is evident in the way she goes above and beyond to ensure that her students have the tools and resources they need to excel.
Dr. Zigmond brings the same level of dedication and attention to detail to her clinical practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality care possible. Her ability to connect with her patients and put them at ease is a testament to her strong interpersonal skills and her commitment to building lasting relationships based on trust and mentorship.
Dr. Taleen K.
University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Dr. Kalajian graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and is an accomplished general dentist. With 10+ years of experience, she is passionate about mentorship and tutoring. Dr. Kalajian draws upon her extensive experience and organizational skills to help dental students navigate DAT prep.
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Dr. Taleen K.
University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Dr. Kalajian has been a tutor for her peers since high school. Her strength is the Perceptual Ability section of the DAT.
Education
Undergrad: Boston University
Dental School: University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
In her spare time, Dr. Kalajian enjoys spending quality time with her friends, her family, and her dog. She has a rescue dog named Bella, and is always on the quest to find the best iced latte!
Dr. Kalajian graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and is an accomplished general dentist. With 10+ years of experience, she is passionate about mentorship and tutoring. Dr. Kalajian draws upon her extensive experience and organizational skills to help dental students navigate DAT prep.
Dr. Kalajian's educational journey began in Massachusetts, where she grew up. She graduated cum laude from Boston University with an undergraduate degree in behavior and health science and a minor in biology. Her academic success and passion for dentistry led her to the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, where she graduated with a DMD.
During her time at UConn, Dr. Kalajian's outstanding achievements and leadership skills were recognized with numerous awards, including the Kohrman Award and the International College of Dentists Student Leadership Award. She was an active member of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) chapter, serving as both Vice President and President. Dr. Kalajian's dedication to her community was evident through her volunteer work at events such as Give Kids a Smile and her lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill on behalf of her patients and dental colleagues.
As the Class Representative, Dr. Kalajian acted as the liaison between pre-doctoral students and other local ASDA members. Her exceptional contributions were acknowledged with the ASDA District 1 New England Delegate of the Year award and the ASDA Award of Excellence. The Connecticut State Dental Association also presented her with the Charles A. Vernale Award for her community involvement and support of public health interests.
Following dental school, Dr. Kalajian completed a General Practice Residency (GPR) at Danbury Hospital in Connecticut. She currently works as a dentist in a private practice just outside of Boston, MA, where she continues to hone her skills and provide high-quality care to her patients. Dr. Kalajian also remains an active member of several professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, the American Dental Education Association, the Armenian International Women's Association, and the Massachusetts Dental Society. Dr. Kalajian is also the Editor for the Boston Dental District Society, further demonstrating her commitment to the field of dentistry.
Dr. Kalajian's tutoring experience spans from her high school years, where she mentored and guided many students through the college application process while helping them develop study and organizational skills. During her undergraduate studies, she worked as an online tutor, assisting students in math and science courses for approximately five years. Additionally, she served as a private organic chemistry tutor for two individuals, meeting with them weekly to review course material. Dr. Kalajian continued her work in mentoring throughout dental school, expanding her tutoring expertise to include DAT and dental school preparation.
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dr. Kalajian has mastered time management skills, as evidenced by her numerous extracurricular accolades. She is passionate about helping students develop the organization and study skills necessary for academic success. Drawing from her own experiences, Dr. Kalajian understands that the path to mastering the DAT can be daunting, but she excels at breaking it down into manageable milestones and simplified tasks.
As a tutor, Dr. Kalajian has honed her ability to recognize the unique strengths and weaknesses of students, allowing her to tailor her tutoring style to their individual academic needs and goals. Her patience, understanding, and firsthand experience of the challenges faced by dental students make her an invaluable resource for those seeking guidance and support. Dr. Kalajian is passionate about instilling a similar excitement for dentistry and academia within students, helping them to develop the skills and confidence necessary to succeed in their chosen field.
Duale O.
University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Master Tutor
Before attending the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Duale graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA in life physics from the University of Waterloo. With nine years of tutoring experience, Duale has guided many students toward 515+ MCAT scores, with some scoring in the 520s. Students who work with him increase their MCAT scores by an average of 9 points.
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Duale O.
University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Duale has helped students achieve high MCAT scores, with some achieving scores in the 520s.
Education
Undergrad: University of Waterloo
Medical School: University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine
Fun Fact
Duale has worked as a researcher at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute.
Before attending the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Duale graduated with a perfect 4.0 GPA in life physics from the University of Waterloo. With nine years of tutoring experience, Duale has guided many students toward 515+ MCAT scores, with some scoring in the 520s. Students who work with him increase their MCAT scores by an average of 9 points.
At the University of Waterloo, Duale served as a TA for biology and chemistry courses for four years. He also acted as a peer mentor, providing mentorship and meaningful guidance to first- and second-year students as they navigate through the challenges of undergraduate education. Duale has also served as a STEM instructor at STEM Camp and a Casper tutor at the University of Toronto.
Duale has been recognized for his academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top three students in his medical school cohort each year. He has earned prestigious honors, such as the President’s Scholarship, the Scholar Competency Award, and an Undergraduate Student Research Award from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. His research on artificial intelligence in mental health and racial disparities in anticoagulation outcomes has been published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis.
Beyond academics, Duale is committed to mentorship and equity-driven initiatives, having founded student organizations that promote collaboration, inclusion, and community engagement. He also served as the Ottawa Chapter Vice President of the Muslim Medical Association of Canada, and currently serves as Vice President of the Black Medical Student Association of Ottawa. Duale is passionate about integrating clinical excellence, teaching, and service to make a meaningful impact on future healthcare professionals.
Duale specializes in helping students build strong foundations in all MCAT sections. Students Duale has taught have been accepted to top Canadian medical schools, including the University of Toronto, McMaster University, and the University of Ottawa. His teaching style emphasizes clarity, strategy, and confidence, equipping students with the knowledge and test-taking skills they need to excel on the exam.
Elizabeth K.
UT Southwestern Medical School
Katayoun is a passionate MCAT tutor with a strong academic background and tutoring history. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, earning a double major in biology and plan II honors with a minor in psychology. Katayoun spent her gap year working at an orthopedic and a dermatology clinic and coached her undergraduate university's national speech and debate team.
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Elizabeth K.
UT Southwestern Medical School
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Katayoun is a strong proponent of healthy, sustainable study habits who likens studying for the MCAT to training for a marathon, rather than preparing for a sprint.
Education
Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: UT Southwestern Medical School
Fun Fact
Katayoun loves playing video games and plays the piano.
Katayoun is a passionate MCAT tutor with a strong academic background and tutoring history. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, earning a double major in biology and plan II honors with a minor in psychology. Katayoun spent her gap year working at an orthopedic and a dermatology clinic and coached her undergraduate university's national speech and debate team.
For over three years, Katayoun has tutored more than 20 students, helping them achieve As in their pre-med requirement classes after switching majors or career paths. Her success in tutoring demonstrates her ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and tailor her teaching approach to individual student needs.
Katayoun believes that studying for long-format exams like the MCAT is akin to training for a marathon rather than preparing for an indefinite sprint. The best medicine is finding a healthy balance between rigorous studying and other activities, making studying engaging and stimulating. Finding ways to test knowledge throughout the entire study process is essential for succeeding not just on the MCAT, but the many other exams students take during their career path.
Katayoun is passionate about pursuing dermatology, psychiatry, or neurology. She is a student-free clinic manager at UT Southwestern and participates in numerous research projects in her fields of interest.
Katayoun’s journey and ability to balance a demanding schedule while still making time for activities that are important to her make her a strong guide. She is passionate about helping other students navigate their own paths toward a career in medicine.
Emma S.
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Emma graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida before attending the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. With years of tutoring experience, a personalized approach, and a dedication to simplifying complex concepts, Emma is eager to help students navigate the DAT and achieve their goals.
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Emma S.
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Students Emma has tutored have scored as high as 27 (550-560) on the DAT.
Education
Undergrad: University of Florida
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Emma loves to paint, play soccer, and work out in her free time. She also enjoys finding and developing healthy dessert recipes.
Emma graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida before attending the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. With years of tutoring experience, a personalized approach, and a dedication to simplifying complex concepts, Emma is eager to help students navigate the DAT and achieve their goals.
Emma has firsthand experience navigating the DAT and dental school admissions process, allowing her to empathize with students’ challenges and offer insider information throughout their preparation. She understands the stress and uncertainty that often accompany the dental school application process, and she is committed to providing students with the guidance and reassurance they need to succeed on the DAT. Students she has tutored have been accepted to dental programs at the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Florida, the University of Maryland, and other schools.
As a tutor, Emma is known for her ability to simplify complex sections of the DAT into digestible parts. She breaks down challenging concepts and presents them in a clear, easy-to-understand manner, ensuring students grasp the material thoroughly. Emma's approach to tutoring is highly personalized, as she recognizes that each student has a different learning style. Emma is adept at making herself readily available to address questions and concerns, offering prompt and clear communication to ensure students feel supported.
In addition to her accessibility and support, Emma excels at recognizing and accommodating students with diverse study methods and learning strategies. By adapting her teaching style to match student needs, Emma creates a learning environment that is both effective and engaging.
Ephraim O.
Harvard Medical School
Master Tutor
Ephraim graduated summa cum laude from Washington University earning honors including the Barry Goldwater Scholarship, BP-ENDURE scholarship, and recognition as a regional finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship. He achieved a 100th percentile MCAT score and has been helping students achieve MCAT success for three years.
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Ephraim O.
Harvard Medical School
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Ephraim achieved a perfect score on the biology/biochemistry section of the MCAT. He excels at creating a study schedule for students and has led workshops attended by 150+ students for MCAT prep.
Education
Undergrad: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Harvard Medical School
Fun Fact
In his free time, Ephraim enjoys electric skateboarding, hanging out with friends and family, and picking up sports like soccer, ping pong, and volleyball.
Ephraim graduated summa cum laude from Washington University earning honors including the Barry Goldwater Scholarship, BP-ENDURE scholarship, and recognition as a regional finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship. He achieved a 100th percentile MCAT score and has been helping students achieve MCAT success for three years.
Ephraim completed his undergraduate studies at Washington University in St. Louis, where he pursued neuroscience and African & African American Studies as a John B. Ervin Scholar and University Scholar in Medicine. During his time at WashU, Ephraim demonstrated leadership and commitment to service through various roles, including Interfaith fellow, president of the Minority Association of Premed Students, Alzheimer's researcher, and Resident Advisor. With a perfect MCAT score in the 100th percentile and he was accepted at all the medical schools he applied to, including UPenn, Columbia, Duke, Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Yale, WashU, NYU, USF, and Northwestern, ultimately deciding to enroll at Harvard.
At Harvard, Ephraim was co-president of the Student National Medical Association, demonstrating his continued dedication to leadership and community building. He looks forward to leveraging translational research and education to engage and benefit his local community.
Ephraim's passion for mentorship and education is evident in his extensive tutoring experience, which dates back to high school. He has served as a Peer Led Team Learning leader for General Chemistry and a TA for Physiology.
As a tutor, Ephraim excels in MCAT preparation, particularly in the Biology/Biochemistry section. His approach focuses on supporting students through challenging academic concepts and guiding them toward their next steps.
Erika L.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Master Tutor
Erika double majored in bioengineering and brain and cognitive science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She has 10 years of tutoring experience, including acting as a biology department tutor for three years, helping students understand complex scientific topics and raise exam scores.
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Erika L.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Erika understands what it’s like to be an extremely busy college student and is adept at helping students use their time effectively to maximize their learning and scores.
Education
Undergrad: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Fun Fact
In her free time, Erika loves to knit and crochet.
Erika double majored in bioengineering and brain and cognitive science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She has 10 years of tutoring experience, including acting as a biology department tutor for three years, helping students understand complex scientific topics and raise exam scores.
Erika works in clinical neurosurgery research and is also a certified EMT. AT MIT, she gained extensive research experience in a variety of different fields, conducting cognitive science, molecular biology, and medical device research. She also volunteered in a program where she tutored Boston-area immigrants in order to help them prepare for the US Citizenship Exam.
Students who work with Erika have earned higher MCAT scores and have developed their skills in connecting concepts. She personally excelled at the Biochemical and Biological Foundations of Living Systems section as well as the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section of the MCAT.
Being involved in a wide range of fields has allowed Erika to approach problems from different angles. She brings this expertise and unique perspective to her tutoring to help students learn concepts in new ways. Erika also has experience tutoring ESL, which has given her a good understanding of how to explain concepts from different angles to best help students.
Outside of academics, Erika was a four-year member of the MIT Women's Track and Field team. Being a student-athlete has given her a valuable perspective on balancing time-intensive commitments with academics, and this is a strength in her tutoring strategy. She is skilled at helping students design effective study strategies that will maximize their learning in the amount of study time that they have.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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