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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.
Title
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Education
Undergrad:California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Munoz played competitive softball for more than 10 years and still plays recreationally. She enjoys spending time reading, cooking, going to concerts, gardening, and training her doberman.
Dr. Munoz attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine before becoming a resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years of experience in advising and tutoring students and five years in selecting, interviewing, and ranking applicants for medical school and residency. She currently sits on the admissions committee for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin.
Dr. Munoz graduated summa cum laude from California State University San Marcos with a BS in biology and a minor in chemistry after being recruited to play softball for the university before attending Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Her impressive performance during the residency application process led to more than 20 interviews in her chosen specialty of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Ultimately, Dr. Munoz matched at a top 10 program in the country for this specialty, the University of Wisconsin, where she worked towards a fellowship in microsurgical reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Munoz's passion for advising and working with students stems from her own experiences and challenges throughout medical school and residency application processes. As the first in her family to graduate with a college degree, she overcame numerous obstacles in the preparation for and admission to medical school and residency, from which she learned immensely. This personal journey has fueled her desire to make the process more streamlined, straightforward, efficient, and successful for future students. She draws on her extensive training in communication, teaching, and leadership to guide students with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Munoz’s 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees, which she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals. She takes a flexible and student-centered approach, adapting quickly to each student’s needs and adjusting plans as necessary. Dr. Munoz fosters a friendly, approachable, and conversational atmosphere, ensuring students feel empowered throughout their journey. With a focus on positivity and patience, she builds students’ confidence by celebrating their progress and ensuring they fully understand the next steps.
Dr. Keith P.
University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Poulsen is a board-certified veterinarian with over 25 years of mentorship experience and more than six years of admissions committee service at top veterinary schools. He currently serves as the Director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (WVDL) and holds a faculty appointment in medical sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, where he also earned his DVM and PhD degrees.
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Dr. Keith P.
Title
University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Large Animal Internal Medicine, Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases
Education
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Veterinary School: University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Fun Fact
In addition to his public health work, Dr. Poulsen and his wife, Dr. Beth Poulsen, own and operate a companion animal veterinary practice in the Madison metro area.
Dr. Poulsen is a board-certified veterinarian with over 25 years of mentorship experience and more than six years of admissions committee service at top veterinary schools. He currently serves as the Director of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (WVDL) and holds a faculty appointment in medical sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, where he also earned his DVM and PhD degrees.
Dr. Poulsen has held key academic and leadership roles, including assistant professor at Oregon State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and associate clinical professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His work at WVDL centers on infectious disease diagnostics and international trade testing for cattle and bovine germplasm.
He is deeply involved in the broader veterinary community as the former President of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD), and is the Co-Chair of the AAVLD government relations committee. He is also the Chair of the Board of Directors for the International Council of Veterinary Assessment (ICVA), which oversees the North American Veterinary Licensure Examination (NAVLE), and is Wisconsin’s delegate to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) House of Delegates.
Dr. Poulsen has reviewed hundreds of applications while serving on admissions committees at the Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine and the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. He has mentored many students who have gone on to attend leading veterinary schools such as Cornell, Purdue, Iowa State, NC State, Michigan State, Oregon State, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Poulsen’s approach to admissions consulting is structured yet flexible, ensuring students can follow step-by-step processes while allowing for flexibility.
Dr. Poulsen’s research on zoonotic and infectious diseases is widely recognized and has been featured in Scientific American, Vanity Fair, NPR, CBS 60 Minutes, the Associated Press, and The New York Times. Dr. Poulsen is actively engaged in service-related projects across the United States, South America, Asia, and Africa, focusing on infectious and zoonotic diseases as well as export market development.
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.
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Isaac L.
Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Isaac is a dedicated DAT tutor with several years of tutoring experience, having worked as a private tutor and undergraduate teaching assistant for several STEM courses. He scored an impressive 24AA on the DAT, including 97th percentile scores in general and organic chemistry and a 99th percentile score in mathematics.
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Isaac L.
Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Isaac’s extensive teaching background across multiple subjects and his firsthand experience achieving a high score on the DAT enable him to effectively navigate the exam’s challenges.
Education
Undergrad: Stony Brook University
Dental School: Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Isaac enjoys playing badminton and billiards, which keep him active and competitive. He’s also an occasional gamer and was formerly the rank 1 Kennen player in North America in League of Legends.
Isaac is a dedicated DAT tutor with several years of tutoring experience, having worked as a private tutor and undergraduate teaching assistant for several STEM courses. He scored an impressive 24AA on the DAT, including 97th percentile scores in general and organic chemistry and a 99th percentile score in mathematics.
Prior to pursuing his DDS at the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Isaac completed his Bachelor of Science at Stony Brook University. During his undergraduate years, he served as a teaching assistant for multiple STEM courses and engaged in chemical research with Stony Brook’s Department of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering.
With a passion for teaching and an impressive 24 on the DAT, Michael is eager to share his expertise. He is dedicated to guiding other students through the DAT, helping them achieve their own remarkable success.
Isaac takes a unique approach to tutoring, combining his subject expertise with personalized strategies tailored to individual learning styles. His rich background in healthcare and research allows him to bring a well-rounded perspective to his teaching.
He has successfully guided students through many exams, helping them achieve significant score improvements. His expertise in chemistry, mathematics, and other subject areas allows him to provide tailored guidance that meets each student's unique learning needs and contributes to their academic success. Additionally, he incorporates his interests in competitive gaming and sports like badminton and billiards to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Isha G.
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
Master Tutor
Before matriculating at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Isha graduated from Case Western Reserve University in three years, earning a degree in psychology with minors in biology and chemistry. Isha has over five years of tutoring experience and looks forward to sharing her MCAT knowledge with pre-med students.
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Isha G.
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Isha achieved a perfect score on the Psychology/Sociology section of the MCAT.
Education
Undergrad: Case Western Reserve University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School
Fun Fact
Isha was born at UMass Memorial Hospital and raised just 10 minutes away from her medical school.
Before matriculating at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Isha graduated from Case Western Reserve University in three years, earning a degree in psychology with minors in biology and chemistry. Isha has over five years of tutoring experience and looks forward to sharing her MCAT knowledge with pre-med students.
Isha’s passion for mentorship began in college, where she tutored fellow pre-med students and underserved learners in the greater Cleveland area. She provided comprehensive support in science and math, while also guiding students through the MCAT prep and medical school application processes.
At Case Western Reserve University, Isha was heavily involved in biology research. She studied methods of bone growth in mouse embryos and factors that contribute to skull formation. Isha attended several conferences, including at Harvard Medical School, to present posters of her research. She has also given two talks on her research at national meetings on structural birth defects and regenerative medicine. Isha was honored with the ENGAGE Award from the National Center of Regenerative Medicine.
In addition to her research contributions, Isha gained extensive clinical experience as a dermatology medical assistant and clinical research coordinator. She led a project integrating artificial intelligence to track the progression of alopecia areata, presenting it at the Dermatology Innovation Symposium.
What truly sets Isha apart as an MCAT tutor is her dual perspective as both a successful test-taker and a former tutee. She understands the importance of tailored study plans, strategic passage approaches, and emotional resilience. Isha is committed to empowering students with the tools, mindset, and confidence needed to excel on the MCAT.
Jack D.
Regis University
Master Tutor
Before earning a Master’s in biomedical sciences from Regis University, Jack graduated with a BS in biology from Santa Clara University. At Regis, he achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA and received the prestigious Joan Betz Award, given to the student who best exemplifies academic excellence within the program. Jack currently serves as an adjunct professor of biology at Regis University, where he teaches undergraduates and helps them gain confidence in rigorous scientific material.
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Jack D.
Regis University
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Jack is particularly adept at helping students build resilience and clarity under pressure, making him a strong guide for those seeking both content mastery and confidence on test day.
Education
Undergrad: Santa Clara University
Graduate School: Regis University
Fun Fact
Jack enjoys trail running, playing guitar, and reading nonfiction. He also has a soft spot for good coffee and has perfected his banana bread recipe over the years.
Before earning a Master’s in biomedical sciences from Regis University, Jack graduated with a BS in biology from Santa Clara University. At Regis, he achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA and received the prestigious Joan Betz Award, given to the student who best exemplifies academic excellence within the program. Jack currently serves as an adjunct professor of biology at Regis University, where he teaches undergraduates and helps them gain confidence in rigorous scientific material.
Jack has worked in a variety of clinical roles, including as a medical scribe and a rehabilitation technician in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He also contributes to the Soar Autism Center in Denver, supporting young children as they develop social skills through play-based therapy. Jack’s work across teaching, clinical care, and research has strengthened his critical thinking, adaptability, and ability to explain complex topics with clarity and patience.
Jack’s academic achievements are complemented by his success as an elite athlete. He was a Division I student-athlete in cross country and track at Santa Clara, where he won the Pat Malley Award, given to the top male senior athlete. A two-time marathon champion and Olympic Trials qualifier, Jack brings the same discipline and perseverance that fueled his running career into his teaching. He is particularly effective at guiding students through the challenges of preparation with a calm, encouraging, and focused presence.
As an MCAT tutor, Jack draws on his strong academic background and extensive time in both the lab and classroom. He emphasizes strategy, structure, and mental resilience while tailoring his approach to each student’s learning style. His experience balancing the demands of advanced science coursework with athletics has given him a recognizable sense of time management and efficiency—skills he now helps students develop as they prepare for the MCAT.
Jackson E.
University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Before attending the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, Jackson graduated cum laude from Wheaton College with a Bachelor of Arts in biochemistry. Jackson specializes in test preparation and evidence-based MCAT study strategies and brings a background in clinical care and teaching to inform his approach as a tutor.
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Jackson E.
University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Jackson specializes in helping students build personalized, efficient MCAT study plans rooted in evidence-based strategies, drawing from the approach that helped him raise his own score by 20+ points.
Education
Undergrad: Wheaton College
Medical School: University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Jackson trains in calisthenics (primarily bodyweight fitness such as pushups and pullups) and teaches Medical Spanish through the AES World Languages and Cultures Institute. After spending most of his gap year abroad, he is now fluent in both Spanish and English.
Before attending the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, Jackson graduated cum laude from Wheaton College with a Bachelor of Arts in biochemistry. Jackson specializes in test preparation and evidence-based MCAT study strategies and brings a background in clinical care and teaching to inform his approach as a tutor.
Jackson’s academic journey has been featured in a Wheaton College article highlighting his international medical experiences, including hospital internships in Ecuador and Denmark. He was also awarded a merit scholarship during his undergraduate years. His clinical background includes serving as a Patient Care Associate at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and as an EMT at a wilderness camp in Massachusetts.
As an MCAT tutor, Jackson emphasizes evidence-based strategies and efficient content review. He excels at helping students create personalized study timelines and stay accountable to them while strengthening their understanding and test-taking skills. Jackson also draws mentorship inspiration from his clinical work with physicians and patients—he aims to demystify the pre-med process, starting with the MCAT, and inspire future medical students. After increasing his score 20+ points from his first diagnostic, Jackson has developed a tutoring style that is highly adaptable to students from diverse backgrounds and with unique learning needs.
Jacob
University of Connecticut
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Jacob
University of Connecticut
Tutoring Claim to Fame
MD Candidate at University of Connecticut
Education
Medical: University of Connecticut
Undergrad: Swarthmore College
Fun Fact
Jacob is an MD/PhD student at the University of Connecticut interested in both the clinical and basic science neurosciences. He graduated with High Honors from Swarthmore College in 2020 where he studied neuroscience and political science. He conducted his senior thesis research on using memory reconsolidation to manipulate retention of fear memory. Jacob played cello and bassoon in numerous musical ensembles and also played on Swarthmore's Ultimate Frisbee team. In addition, he served as a sportscaster for Swarthmore College's athletics teams.
Jacob recently completed a two year research position at NYU Grossman School of Medicine's Neuroscience Institute where he worked in James Salzer's lab studying the role of Schwann cells and macrophages in animal models of myelin disorders. Jacob has extensive experience tutoring students and looks forward to helping prospective medical student's realize their maximum potential.
Jacob B.
University of Pittsburgh
Director of Tutoring
Jacob graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a BS in psychology with honors while completing pre-med coursework, a minor in chemistry, and a certificate in the conceptual philosophy of medicine. Jacob has tutored students for 12 years and has experience as a technical author of an MCAT Psych/Soc prep book.
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Jacob B.
University of Pittsburgh
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Students that Jacob has tutored have been accepted to multiple medical schools nationwide.
Education
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Fun Fact
Jacob worked as the Lead Creative Author for his work on the Heroes of Land, Air and Sea board game. He wrote the world lore appearing on the first page of the handbook, faction stories, and character descriptions.
Jacob graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a BS in psychology with honors while completing pre-med coursework, a minor in chemistry, and a certificate in the conceptual philosophy of medicine. Jacob has tutored students for 12 years and has experience as a technical author of an MCAT Psych/Soc prep book.
At the University of Pittsburgh, Jacob led organic chemistry recitations as a TA to his peers with fully customized lessons and instruction. He also provided private tutoring to other students preparing for university tests or other professional exams, such as the MCAT. Jacob also contributed to neurocognitive research in Pitt’s Affective Neuroscience and Developmental Psychology Research Lab.
Following graduation, Jacob pivoted to pursue his passion for education via nonprofit management while expanding his technical teaching and writing to professional MCAT curriculum development. Taking an interest in systems engineering and automation, Jacob completed a software development bootcamp, leading to a successful five-year career in technology engineering. Even in his current role at the Bank of New York Mellon, Jacob leads his department in knowledge-sharing strategies and staff capacity building, a testament to his innate gift for teaching.
Jacob is a lifelong learner with a continuous track record of exceptional, personalized teaching and tutoring. His strategic approach to learning helped him achieve a top MCAT score, which is reflected in his tutoring style. By using research-backed approaches such as the Leitner Method and emphasizing recall memory over recognition, Jacob prepares students to understand content deeply while connecting it to personal interests and adjacent MCAT topics to build a strong semantic web of understanding.
Jacob strongly believes that the MCAT is just as much a test of focus and resiliency as it is content, and enjoys leveraging students’ curiosity to help them reason through difficult analyses.
Janvi P.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Master Tutor
Janvi attended the University of Texas, Dallas, on a full-ride scholarship before pursuing an MD from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She is a dedicated MCAT tutor with four years of experience. Janvi draws from her own academic achievements to shape her tutoring approach and is eager to help students efficiently prepare for the MCAT.
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Janvi P.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Janvi has tutored students of diverse age ranges in various subjects, so she’s great at adjusting to different topics and learning styles.
Education
Undergrad: University of Texas, Dallas
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Fun Fact
Janvi is a huge foodie and an expert on the Dallas food scene!
Janvi attended the University of Texas, Dallas, on a full-ride scholarship before pursuing an MD from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She is a dedicated MCAT tutor with four years of experience. Janvi draws from her own academic achievements to shape her tutoring approach and is eager to help students efficiently prepare for the MCAT.
Janvi earned a Bachelor of Science in health care administration and management from UT Dallas. It was during college that she developed a passion for mentoring and teaching. She has a diverse professional background, including volunteering at hospitals, leading medical clubs, doing research, and tutoring students across various subjects.
Janvi is passionate about the culture of continuous learning in healthcare and is eager to help students excel on the MCAT. With a love for learning, she mastered all her pre-medical coursework and self-studied for the MCAT, achieving success on her own terms. With extensive tutoring experience spanning middle school to college-level science courses, Janvi has worked with students of all ages and learning styles.
She is adept at developing tailored study plans that carefully assess students’ strengths and weaknesses. She provides personalized support, adjusting her strategies as needed to maximize each student’s MCAT scores. She is dedicated to helping students succeed by sharing her insights, tips, and personalized approaches to tackle the MCAT. Her goal is to empower students to achieve their best and approach the test with confidence.
Jas G.
University of Calgary
Director of Tutoring
Jas is a high-achieving MCAT tutor and honors graduate in chemistry from the University of Calgary. With a top 1% MCAT score, top 2% class ranking, and consistent placement on the Dean’s List throughout her undergraduate career, Jas brings both academic excellence and a strong mentorship ethic to her tutoring style.
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Jas G.
University of Calgary
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Every student that Jas has tutored has increased their MCAT score by 8+ points.
Education
Undergrad: University of Calgary
Fun Fact
In her personal life, Jas is a fitness and wellness enthusiast who shares health-focused content on Instagram to inspire others on their personal journeys. She’s also a passionate home cook who loves experimenting with flavors and ingredients from different heritages.
Jas is a high-achieving MCAT tutor and honors graduate in chemistry from the University of Calgary. With a top 1% MCAT score, top 2% class ranking, and consistent placement on the Dean’s List throughout her undergraduate career, Jas brings both academic excellence and a strong mentorship ethic to her tutoring style.
Jas graduated from the University of Calgary with a BS in chemistry and a minor in physics. She conducted advanced undergraduate research in wastewater chemical analysis and ozone nanobubble solutions, developing novel analytical methods to detect reactive oxygen species. Her honors thesis was selected for presentation at the Western Canadian Undergraduate Chemistry Conference at the University of British Columbia, where she shared her findings with peers and faculty from across the country.
Jas has secured multiple scholarships for her academic excellence and commitment to leadership. She is a two-time recipient of the Government of Alberta’s Women in STEM Scholarship, and was awarded the E.G. Coombe Family Scholarship for her academic achievement in science, among others. Additionally, she was named a Presidential Scholar and Louise McKinney Scholar at her graduation.
With seven years of tutoring expertise spanning undergraduate-level organic chemistry, general chemistry, and biochemistry, Jas has successfully mentored numerous students as they work toward their MCAT score goals. She also served as undergraduate science tutor in the University of Calgary’s Resource Centre for four years. Students Jas has tutored have raised their MCAT scores by an average of 10 points, and have been accepted to some of North America’s top medical schools, including UCLA, NYU Grossman, McMaster University, the University of Toronto, and others.
Jas’ greatest strengths lie in her approachability, clarity of communication, and personalized coaching style. She tailors every lesson to match a student’s individual learning preferences—whether visual, verbal, or conceptual—while focusing on confidence-building, strategic review, and exam mindset. She is particularly skilled at working with students who struggle with timing, endurance, or test anxiety.
Beyond academics, Jas has a rich background in leadership, athletics, and service. She played competitive basketball for 12 years and now gives back to the sport as a coach for elite U15–U17 boys at a respected academy, where she focuses on discipline, resilience, and teamwork. She also volunteers regularly at a local hospital and with the YMCA, where she mentors youth and supports community wellness programs.
Driven, empathetic, and results-oriented, Jas is deeply committed to helping aspiring medical students reach their full potential academically, professionally, and personally. Her holistic, empowering approach makes her an invaluable guide for anyone navigating the MCAT journey.
Jasmina H.
University of Florida College of Dentistry
Master Tutor
Jasmina offers a combination of academic expertise, extensive clinical experience, and a passion for helping others succeed, keeping in touch even when their sessions are over. With 430+ hours of shadowing and clinical experience, Jasmina has gained a deep understanding of the skills and knowledge required to excel in the field of dentistry. She has consistently helped students achieve 21+ scores on the DAT.
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Jasmina H.
University of Florida College of Dentistry
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Jasmina knows all the issues one might face when taking the DAT. She knows the Reading Comprehension section like the back of her hand, as indicated by her perfect score in that section.
Education
Undergrad: St. Petersburg College
Dental School: University of Florida College of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Jasmina is enamored with the arts. She enjoys painting, attending concerts (especially metal shows), and is a self-proclaimed movie nerd.
Jasmina offers a combination of academic expertise, extensive clinical experience, and a passion for helping others succeed, keeping in touch even when their sessions are over. With 430+ hours of shadowing and clinical experience, Jasmina has gained a deep understanding of the skills and knowledge required to excel in the field of dentistry. She has consistently helped students achieve 21+ scores on the DAT.
Jasmina attended St. Petersburg College, earning her Bachelor's in biology, achieving a cumulative GPA of 3.94 and a science GPA of 3.97. She received the St. Petersburg College Presidential Scholarship and the Dr. Theodore Mazzu Award. Jasmina's previous experience includes working as a dental assistant at Gulf Coast Dental Outreach.
Jasmina's journey to dentistry continued with her acceptance to the University of Florida's College of Dentistry. Throughout her dental education, she encountered and overcame various challenges, which have equipped her with knowledge and strategies that she shares with her students. Jasmina's leadership skills, honed through her experience founding a Women in STEM club, have further improved her ability to support and guide aspiring dental students.
As a tutor, Jasmina's greatest strengths lie in her adaptability and her ability to create a supportive, nurturing learning environment that encourages students to push themselves and reach their full potential. She excels at providing clear, concise explanations of complex DAT topics and offers a wealth of resources to help students reinforce their understanding and apply their knowledge in practical settings. Through her guidance and support, Jasmina has helped numerous students significantly improve their scores and gain the confidence they need to succeed in their dental school pursuits.
Beyond her academic and tutoring achievements, Jasmina is a firm believer in the importance of staying true to oneself while pursuing one's goals. She encourages students to maintain a balanced life, emphasizing the value of self-care, personal growth, and staying connected to one's passions. Jasmina's own journey, which includes enrolling in an early college program at the age of 16, completing her Bachelor's degree with a full scholarship, and gaining acceptance to dental school, is a testament to her ability to achieve success while remaining grounded and committed to her values.
Jay V.
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Jay is a dedicated DAT tutor attending the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine on a $40,000 annual merit scholarship. He has over seven years of experience working with students across varying academic backgrounds. Jay has helped many students raise their DAT scores by an average of 60-70 points.
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Jay V.
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Jay has helped numerous students achieve 460+ DAT scores.
Education
Undergrad: Nova Southeastern University
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
When he’s not coaching or studying, Jay is a true foodie who loves discovering new restaurants. He proudly claims he could eat pizza for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In his free time, he also enjoys playing volleyball and pickleball.
Jay is a dedicated DAT tutor attending the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine on a $40,000 annual merit scholarship. He has over seven years of experience working with students across varying academic backgrounds. Jay has helped many students raise their DAT scores by an average of 60-70 points.
A Pittsburgh native, Jay graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biology and a minor in business from Nova Southeastern University. His academic excellence led to his receipt of an annual Dean’s Scholarship. In addition to his academic and tutoring work, Jay conducted computational chemistry research on "Understanding Proton Transfer within DNA Base Pairs using Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics" and presented his findings at the American Chemical Society (ACS) National Meeting in New Orleans. Jay was also accepted to the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and Harvard School of Dental Medicine but ultimately chose UPenn for its forward-thinking curriculum and rich research opportunities.
Jay has experience tutoring for the DAT and organic chemistry, making him highly effective at adapting to individual learning styles. His mentoring goes beyond academics—Jay is known for creating a supportive, judgment-free environment where students feel comfortable, motivated, and confident.
What sets Jay apart as a tutor is his strength in communication and connection. He doesn’t treat students like clients—he treats them like friends. He also offers more than academic tutoring as a mentor who builds trust, boosts confidence, and provides emotional support throughout the often stressful pre-dental journey.
Jeffrey H.
Emory University
Master Tutor
Jeffrey graduated from Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience and behavioral biology, earning a perfect 4.0 GPA. He achieved a 526 score on the MCAT, placing him among the nation’s top test-takers. Jeffrey also served as a supplemental instructor and teaching assistant at Emory, where he guided pre-med students through complex biology coursework.
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Jeffrey H.
Emory University
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Jeffrey achieved perfect scores in three MCAT sections.
Education
Undergrad: Emory University
Fun Fact
Jeffrey fosters at-risk dogs through the LifeLine Animal Project, providing them with care and a temporary home while they await adoption.
Jeffrey graduated from Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience and behavioral biology, earning a perfect 4.0 GPA. He achieved a 526 score on the MCAT, placing him among the nation’s top test-takers. Jeffrey also served as a supplemental instructor and teaching assistant at Emory, where he guided pre-med students through complex biology coursework.
In addition to tutoring, Jeffrey has a strong research background in neuroscience, psychiatry, and cancer biology. He has conducted research at Emory Healthcare on treatment-resistant depression, where he investigated neuromodulation therapy efficacy based on genetics. He has also contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications spanning topics from molecular genetics to brain disorders. His work has been published in journals such as Genes & Diseases, Anticancer Research, and microPublication Biology. Beyond academics, Jeffrey has a passion for mental health advocacy. He volunteers as a crisis counselor for the Crisis Text Line and leads support groups at the Emory Autism Center.
Jeffrey's tutoring experience started with teaching and hosting educational activities for his younger brother. He continued his work teaching children and working in underprivileged schools as a summer camp counselor in Chicago. His early experiences have helped guide him to be the patient and personable teacher he is today.
As an MCAT tutor, Jeffrey’s strengths lie in his approachable and patient teaching style. He believes that rapport and a casual learning environment are important for students to be successful. Jeffrey’s experience as both a supplemental instructor and teaching assistant has equipped him to explain complex concepts clearly and adapt lessons to meet individual learning needs.
Joe
Arizona State University
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Joe
Arizona State University
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Post-Masters Fellow at Berklee Valencia
Education
Undergrad: Arizona State University
Fun Fact
I love to dance!
Joe’s teaching career began in high school, where he tutored friends in math after school and sometimes took the lead teaching the class while their physics teacher was too busy playing fantasy football at his desk. He completed a B.S. in medical microbiology from Arizona State University where he took classes in cell bio, public health, virology, bacteriology, immunology, and, his favorite, physiology. Shortly after receiving the Mouer award for graduating in the top 1% of his class, he scored a 519 on his first MCAT and since then has been tutoring MCAT for two years.
During undergrad, Joe worked in the Laryngeal Regeneration Lab at Mayo Clinic AZ where he assisted in the 3D printing of larynx scaffolds. His dream is to be an otolaryngologist and help patients perceive the world in the best way possible!
Outside of medical study, Joe is an avid musician. He plays cello professionally and studied music abroad in Spain. He even curates an electronic music playlist for Spotify! He joined Inspira because he wants to help students get their top scores and springboard them into the medical schools of their dreams.
Joe
Arizona State University
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Joe
Arizona State University
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Medical College Admissions Test Instructor
Education
Undergrad: Arizona State University
Master’s: Berklee College of Music
Fun Fact
Outside of medical study, Joe is an avid musician and loves to dance. He plays cello professionally and studied music abroad in Spain. He even curates an electronic music playlist for Spotify!
Joe has a BS in Medical Microbiology from Arizona State University, taking classes in cell biology, public health, virology, bacteriology, immunology, and physiology. Shortly after receiving the Mouer award for graduating in the top 1% of his class, he scored a 519 on his first MCAT and has been an MCAT tutor since.
During undergrad, Joe worked in the Laryngeal Regeneration Lab at Mayo Clinic AZ, where he assisted in the 3D printing of larynx scaffolds. His dream is to be an otolaryngologist and help patients perceive the world in the best way possible!
Joe’s teaching career began in high school, where he tutored friends in math after school and sometimes took the lead in teaching the class. Joe is passionate about teaching and helping students achieve their goal MCAT scores. He is driven to get students into their dream medical schools.
Joel T.
Hofstra University
Director of Tutoring
Joel attended Hofstra University, where he graduated with a BS, majoring in pre-medical studies. Joel is an experienced pre-medical mentor and tutor who has helped numerous aspiring physicians through challenging pre-medical coursework. He has over four years of experience in tutoring students from diverse backgrounds, from middle schoolers to adult learners in a myriad of subjects.
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Joel T.
Hofstra University
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Joel earned perfect scores on the MCAT’s Bio/Biochem and Psych/Soc sections.
Education
Undergrad: Hofstra University
Fun Fact
When he isn’t tutoring, conducting research, or volunteering, Joel enjoys playing basketball, fishing, and exploring Long Island’s beaches and boardwalks alongside family.
Joel attended Hofstra University, where he graduated with a BS, majoring in pre-medical studies. Joel is an experienced pre-medical mentor and tutor who has helped numerous aspiring physicians through challenging pre-medical coursework. He has over four years of experience in tutoring students from diverse backgrounds, from middle schoolers to adult learners in a myriad of subjects.
At Hofstra, Joel earned distinction through a series of academic and extracurricular achievements, including roles as a physics and biology TA, PT aide, and youth leader. For his excellence in pre-medical studies, Joel received the Florence Kaufman Premedical Scholarship Award. He was also inducted into the Omega Chapter of the Phi Kappa Beta Honor Society. He also volunteered extensively at a local emergency room and contributed to tutoring underserved students through the Zucker School of Medicine pipeline program. Joel’s work reflects a commitment to service, leadership, and mentoring, which is central to his approach to tutoring.
What sets Joel apart is his student-centered coaching style. He specializes in helping students navigate the challenges of test prep, allowing them to conquer once-intimidating topics. Students Joel has tutored have raised their MCAT scores by an average of 13 points. With a background that spans clinical exposure, research, teaching, and community engagement, Joel is particularly adept at working with first-generation students, economically disadvantaged peers, and non-traditional medical school applicants.
Passionate about equity and inclusion in medicine, Joel views tutoring as more than just teaching content—it’s about helping students see their worth, define their path, and build the confidence to claim it.
John Q.
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
John graduated with a BS and MS in biomedical engineering from Drexel University and a PhD in bioengineering from the University of Maryland before attending medical school. He has over a decade of research experience and has been tutoring for 15 years.
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John Q.
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Director of Tutoring
Tutoring Claim to Fame
John specializes in preparing undergraduate students and post-baccalaureate fellows for the MCAT and has been tutoring students for over 15 years.
Education
Undergrad: Drexel University
Graduate School: Drexel University and the University of Maryland
Medical School: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Fun Fact
John enjoys hiking, listening to podcasts, and spending time with his dog, Ollie.
John graduated with a BS and MS in biomedical engineering from Drexel University and a PhD in bioengineering from the University of Maryland before attending medical school. He has over a decade of research experience and has been tutoring for 15 years.
Throughout his career, John has worked at many prestigious nonprofit, private, government, and academic institutions, where his work has been at the cutting edge of biomedical research. His extensive experience in both the lab and the classroom has also led him to become a passionate tutor and coach, where he is dedicated to helping students identify their strengths and build the skills necessary for success in graduate and medical school.
John's research has been recognized and supported by several prestigious awards and fellowships. His research has primarily focused on nanoparticle synthesis and cancer research, and he has made significant contributions to the field through several peer-reviewed publications and national and international presentations. His preclinical medical education was funded by a T32 traineeship, while his PhD research was supported by an MPower Fellowship and the National Cancer Institute - University of Maryland Partnership for Integrative Cancer Research.
As a mentor, John believes in the power of early skill development. He is a firm believer that cultivating strong academic and problem-solving skills early in a student’s education is critical to tackling future exams and achieving long-term success. Drawing on the lessons he learned from the many influential mentors who have guided him throughout his own academic journey, he is committed to giving back to the scientific community by helping students navigate their own educational paths.
John excels in guiding students through the science and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) sections. His approach focuses on developing effective exam-taking strategies and study habits that will serve students well beyond the MCAT and into medical school. John has a particular talent for tailoring lessons to individual needs and fostering breakthrough moments for students. His specialization in MCAT preparation has helped numerous undergraduate students and post-baccalaureate fellows achieve their academic and career goals.
Jonathan
University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine
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Jonathan
University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Medical College Admissions Test Instructor
Education
Undergrad: Tufts University
Medical School: University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine
Fun Fact
Jonathan has a 6-month-old Chihuahua puppy named Milo. He (Jonathan, not Milo) is a competitive powerlifter with a squat-bench-deadlift total of over a thousand pounds. He also enjoys mixed martial arts and has a black belt in Karate.
Jonathan earned his undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Tufts University, where he served as the Head Biochemistry Tutor. He is now a Clinical Research Coordinator at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and has co-authored multiple manuscripts and abstracts. He will be matriculating at the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine and looks forward to exploring interests in family medicine, psychiatry, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, and neurology.
Jonathan's love for science began early in life, as he was fascinated by everything from fundamental physics to tropical ecology. His passion for medicine was ignited during his junior year of college when his mother was diagnosed with a rare genetic disease, and he shadowed a pediatric geneticist.
Jonathan's dedication to self-improvement led to a 100th percentile score of 526 on the MCAT, including a 132 on the CARS section. He researched the ins and outs of the test and designed his comprehensive study plan. In addition to mastering the balance between content review and practice using traditional study materials, he became an expert at using spaced repetition, nutrition, exercise, meditation, visualization, and testing conditions to sustain his hard work and optimize his score. This deep dive also led to a desire to share his expertise and help others achieve their best MCAT score.
He believes many people are accidentally 'leaving points on the table,’ so to speak, by studying inefficiently and neglecting to support the body alongside the mind when preparing for the MCAT, which is an all-day endurance event. Jonathan’s holistic, friendly approach to tutoring is highly personalized and focuses on efficient studying and strategic self-care, leading to higher scores with smaller, yet more deliberate, efforts. Crucially, it also makes studying a whole lot more fun—as it can and should be if we are to enjoy our lives during this long path full of learning and testing!
Jonathan L.
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Jonathan graduated from Johns Hopkins University before matriculating at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM). With a BS in biomedical engineering, Jonathan combines a strong command of scientific knowledge with years of tutoring experience to help students conquer the MCAT with confidence and clarity. He scored in the top 1% of all MCAT takers, including a perfect section score in Bio/Biochem.
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Jonathan L.
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Master Tutor
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Jonathan achieved a perfect section score in the Bio/Biochem section.
Education
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Jonathan has been published in over three academic papers.
Jonathan graduated from Johns Hopkins University before matriculating at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM). With a BS in biomedical engineering, Jonathan combines a strong command of scientific knowledge with years of tutoring experience to help students conquer the MCAT with confidence and clarity. He scored in the top 1% of all MCAT takers, including a perfect section score in Bio/Biochem.
Jonathan is a recipient of the JHU Life Design Lab Summer Grant and the Emmett and Ruth A. Light Scholarship at UMSOM. During college, he was inducted into both the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society and the Alpha Eta Mu Beta BME Honor Society and was named to the Dean’s List for all eight semesters.
Jonathan has tutored many students across diverse backgrounds, and his undergraduate science GPA of 3.95 and cumulative GPA of 3.94 reflect his deep academic proficiency. He draws on that mastery, along with a highly strategic and supportive teaching style, to help students build both knowledge and test-day confidence.
He is highly familiar with AAMC and Anki-based MCAT study resources and provides tailored, high-yield instruction to meet students where they are in their prep journey. Whether working through complex passages, building foundational understanding, or refining testing strategies, Jonathan brings clarity, patience, and structure to every session.
Whether students are just beginning their MCAT journey or looking to push their scores from good to great, Jonathan brings the expertise, structure, and encouragement needed to help them reach their score goals.
Joseph
UT Southwestern Medical Center
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Joseph
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Tutoring Claim to Fame
Grad student at University of Pennsylvania
Education
Medical school - UT Southwestern Medical Center
Undergrad - University of Kansas
Fun Fact
I was the ranked as the fourth-best pole vaulter in the state of Kansas when I was a senior in high school.
Joseph grew up in a small town in Kansas, where he was the only student from his graduating class of ~70 to “make the leap” to a legitimate, 4-year university.
Four years later: Joseph graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Neurobiology, addended with an awkwardly long list of honors. For instance, he received the annual award recognizing the biology department’s top student in his junior and senior years, per faculty consensus. In addition, he was also honored with more than a handful of semi-redundant accolades for “excellence in biomedical research.” Outside of the biology department, Joseph was named as 1 of 20 University Scholars in my graduating class of >5,000 students. Concurrently, he worked jobs as a teaching assistant in biochemistry and physiology courses and played an integral role in establishing a pre-med advisor faculty position within the university’s honors program. Joseph also published a first-author study elucidating the molecular mechanism underlying a phenomenon of paradoxically prolonged vasoconstriction largely responsible for downstream infarctions secondary to vascular insult.
Three months after graduating from KU, he began medical school at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. This is where Joseph felt he really refined a lot of the studying and test-taking strategies he expects to explore en route to masterminding an individualized game plan with every nuance uniquely dedicated to identifying and exploiting the challenges (aka, opportunities) wedged between you and your full potential- which, in his experience, frequently exceeds students’ initial goals.
He has also been an MCAT tutor for three years, helping hundreds of students crush the overly lengthy exam and, ultimately, get into medical school. These years of MCAT tutoring have uniquely positioned him to guide future physicians along what is ubiquitously regarded as the most treacherous segment on the truly lifelong journey of medical education.
Joseph M.
University of Michigan Medical School
Joseph has been tutoring students in pre-health fields for over eight years. He excels at helping students with the often dreaded CARS section, as well as working through the Bio/Biochem and Chem/Phys sections of the MCAT.
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Joseph M.
University of Michigan Medical School
Tutoring Claim to Fame
After completing his undergraduate degree, Joseph worked as an organic chemistry teaching fellow.
Education
Undergrad: Dartmouth College
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Fun Fact
Joseph is an avid baker and enjoys discussing the latest Bon Appetit videos.
Joseph has been tutoring students in pre-health fields for over eight years. He excels at helping students with the often dreaded CARS section, as well as working through the Bio/Biochem and Chem/Phys sections of the MCAT.
Joseph's academic journey began at Dartmouth College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in a pre-health field. It was during his time at Dartmouth that he discovered his passion for tutoring, began his tutoring career, and continued for over eight years. Since then, he has mastered his skills and expanded his expertise to encompass a wide range of subjects, with a particular focus on the MCAT.
After completing his undergraduate degree, Joseph worked as an organic chemistry teaching fellow, where he developed his ability to break down complex concepts and effectively communicate them to students. He also conducted computational research at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.
What sets Joseph apart as a tutor is his ability to relate to the struggles and challenges faced by pre-med students. Having juggled multiple responsibilities himself, from demanding coursework to research and test preparation, Joseph understands the stress and pressure that comes with pursuing a career in medicine. This empathy, combined with his expertise in simplifying complex concepts and providing valuable test-taking strategies, creates a supportive and effective learning environment for his students.
Julia G.
The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
With seven years of experience as a private academic tutor, Julia has honed her skills in guiding students from middle school through college in various STEM subjects. Her exceptional performance on the MCAT, scoring an impressive 523, has equipped her with the knowledge and test-taking strategies necessary to help other students excel on this challenging exam.
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Julia G.
The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Tutoring Claim to Fame
In addition to providing the very best tutoring instructions, what sets Julia apart is how much she cares about every student. She goes above and beyond to ensure everyone feels supported, encouraged, and engaged.
Education
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School:The University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Julia lives an active lifestyle and enjoys running, Peloton, tennis, and swimming. Her favorite music genres are Classic Rock and Taylor Swift, and she loves doing the NYT Crossword!
With seven years of experience as a private academic tutor, Julia has honed her skills in guiding students from middle school through college in various STEM subjects. Her exceptional performance on the MCAT, scoring an impressive 523, has equipped her with the knowledge and test-taking strategies necessary to help other students excel on this challenging exam.
Julia's academic journey began at Duke University, where she graduated cum laude with a degree in chemistry and a minor in Chinese. She later studied at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, where she pursued her passion for clinical care and research in the fields of cardiology and endocrinology.
Julia's approach to tutoring is rooted in the belief that each student is unique, and she consistently tailors her sessions to best fit the needs of each individual. Her patience, empathy, and commitment to her students' success set her apart as a mentor and guide. Julia takes pride in being accessible and available to her students, providing support not only in academics and test preparation but also in helping them manage their nerves and build confidence before exams. She strongly believes in reminding students of their hard work and strengths, empowering them to perform at their best.
Julia has worked with approximately 15 students, helping them excel in various subjects, including high school chemistry, math, college biochemistry, and chemistry. Her guidance has led to significant improvements in her students' performance, with several increasing their course grades from the B range to the A range. An MCAT student who utilized Julia’s advice achieved an impressive score of 524. She is patient, empathetic, and committed to each of her students and prides herself on always being available and accessible to students.
Julia creates a tutoring environment where her students feel comfortable making mistakes, and if students aren’t sure, it becomes a welcome learning opportunity. She always remembers the details of a student's life that they share during every session. She checks in to see how these things went. Over time, she has found that this approach helps create a safe and supportive environment where students can learn their very best.
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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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