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Dr. Matthew J.
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Jedlinski attended Saint Louis University and the University of Minnesota before graduating from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, where he spent three years as a student admissions representative. He is an associate veterinarian with a Fear Free Certification and diverse background in biology, public health, and veterinary medicine.
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Dr. Matthew J.
Title
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Epidemiology, Small Animal Medicine, Soft-Tissue Surgery, Preventative Medicine, Public Health
Education
Undergrad: Saint Louis University
Graduate School: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Jedlinski is a Philly sports fan and enjoys reading and running. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife and daughter, two dogs named Obi and Stella, and a Russian tortoise named Phil.
Dr. Jedlinski attended Saint Louis University and the University of Minnesota before graduating from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, where he spent three years as a student admissions representative. He is an associate veterinarian with a Fear Free Certification and diverse background in biology, public health, and veterinary medicine.
During his undergraduate studies at Saint Louis University, where he earned a BS in cell biology and physiology, Dr. Jedlinski gained valuable research experience through an internship at the Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine. After graduation, Dr. Jedlinski matriculated to the University of Minnesota, where he earned an MPH in epidemiology, focusing on foodborne and zoonotic diseases. While in graduate school, he was employed by the State of Minnesota Department of Health's Foodborne Illness Epidemiology Unit. Additionally, he completed a specialty internship with the Zoonotic Disease Epidemiology Unit of the Department of Health. His master's thesis was an epidemiological study of the risk of Salmonellosis among agricultural workers in Minnesota.
Dr. Jedlinski attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, where he received his VMD. During his time at PennVet, he participated in the Boehringer-Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program, a prestigious research fellowship that allowed him to work on developing a point-of-care, portable PCR diagnostic for equine infectious diseases.
Students Dr. Jedlinski has worked with have been accepted to top vet schools at Cornell, UPenn, Auburn, Tufts, and others. With his extensive academic and research background, he is well-equipped to guide students through the rigorous veterinary school admissions process. His firsthand experience navigating the application process, coupled with his expertise in various fields and time as an admissions representative, provides him with a specialized perspective to share with aspiring veterinarians.
Dr. Matthew P.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Pastewait is a board-certified orthodontist, working in the public and private sectors. As an Air Force officer, Dr. Pastewait is a flight commander, AEGD-1 course director, and Chief of Orthodontics. He has over a decade of mentoring experience, including his work on the residency admissions committee as an interviewer at UNC Adams School of Dentistry and the US Air Force AEGD-1 Program and Health Professions Scholarship Program.
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Dr. Matthew P.
Title
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Orthodontics
Education
Undergrad: US Air Force Academy Graduate School: University of Maryland, College Park Dental School: Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Pastewait worked as a chemist for the Air Force Research Laboratory for four years, where he developed rocket propellant.
Dr. Pastewait is a board-certified orthodontist, working in the public and private sectors. As an Air Force officer, Dr. Pastewait is a flight commander, AEGD-1 course director, and Chief of Orthodontics. He has over a decade of mentoring experience, including his work on the residency admissions committee as an interviewer at UNC Adams School of Dentistry and the US Air Force AEGD-1 Program and Health Professions Scholarship Program.
Dr. Pastewait is a Distinguished Graduate from the US Air Force Academy, graduating as the top cadet in the field of chemistry. He earned his first Master’s degree from the University of Maryland in College Park. Upon graduation, Dr. Pastewait worked as a chemist for the Air Force Research Laboratory for four years. In this role, he developed rocket propellant and deployed to Southwest Asia multiple times in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
Upon his return, Dr. Pastewait entered the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine on the Health Professions Scholarship Program. At this time, he began mentoring and tutoring other dental students in both didactic and clinical courses. He was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon dental honor society.
After graduation, Dr. Pastewait worked as a general dentist for three years before applying for an orthodontic residency. While attending the UNC Adams School of Dentistry Orthodontic program, Dr. Pastewait worked as a teaching assistant, mentoring dental students on growth and development as well as orthodontic fundamentals. Serving on the orthodontics admissions committee gave him a deeper understanding of what makes applications and interviewers successful.
His education and mentorship skills were further honed when he became the Orthodontic Course Director for an AEGD-1 program. Building on his previous residency admissions committee experience, Dr. Pastewait became an interviewer and selection committee member for the US Air Force AEGD-1 Program and Health Professions Scholarship Program.
Dr. Pastewait has coached numerous applicants who have been accepted to top dental schools, including Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, and many others. As an admissions coach, he draws upon his extensive research, education, and clinical experience to guide prospective dentists in their educational journey. His non-traditional path helps him to relate to applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Additionally, Dr Pastewait’s admissions knowledge makes him an invaluable resource for those seeking to build a competitive application for both dental school and dental residencies.
Dr. Matthew R.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Rabinowitz is a urology resident physician at the University of Pennsylvania. As a Lester Persky, MD Urologic Research Scholar at Johns Hopkins, he engaged in extensive clinical investigation, graduating with 30+ publications. Dr. Rabinowitz has over seven years of mentoring and admissions experience, including serving on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee as a voting member and interviewer, personally trained by the admissions dean.
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Dr. Matthew R.
Title
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Urology
Education
Undergrad: The University of Michigan
Medical School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Rabinowitz loves meal-prepping, playing drums or guitar with friends, and going on long walks with his chihuahua named Roo. He is also an avid skier and a lifelong fan of the New York Rangers.
Dr. Rabinowitz is a urology resident physician at the University of Pennsylvania. As a Lester Persky, MD Urologic Research Scholar at Johns Hopkins, he engaged in extensive clinical investigation, graduating with 30+ publications. Dr. Rabinowitz has over seven years of mentoring and admissions experience, including serving on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee as a voting member and interviewer, personally trained by the admissions dean.
Dr. Rabinowitz's academic journey began at the University of Michigan, where he graduated with the Highest Distinction, earning a degree in cellular and molecular biology. His undergraduate career was marked by exceptional achievements, including being named a James B. Angell Scholar for seven consecutive semesters of perfect scholarship. He was inducted into both Phi Kappa Phi and Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Societies as a third-year student, an honor reserved for the top percentile of Michigan's graduating class.
During his time at Michigan, Dr. Rabinowitz demonstrated a strong commitment to peer education and mentorship. He served as a tutor, small group facilitator, and course leader for Introductory Biochemistry at the college's Science Learning Center, and as a mentor in the Michigan Pre-Med Advising Community (MPAC). His dedication extended beyond academics, as he volunteered as a music therapist at Michigan's Hospital, playing acoustic guitar for patients and their families.
Dr. Rabinowitz's leadership and commitment to medical education were evident in his roles at Johns Hopkins. As a Lester Persky, MD Urologic Research Scholar, Dr. Rabinowitz not only graduated with 30+ publications but was also the principal investigator of a study sponsored by the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. He was integral in the Liaison Committee on Medical Education's institutional review of Johns Hopkins, served as an inaugural coach in the medical school's "Peer-to-Peer" learning program, and founded the school's Music and Medicine Interest Group.
Dr. Rabinowitz was elected by his peers to serve on the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine admissions committee. In this role, he was a voting and interviewing member, reviewing over 500 applications, personally interviewing over 50 applicants, and participating in committee meetings as a voting member. He was also chosen as the study body speaker at National Match Day.
Dr. Rabinowitz's experience as both an applicant and an admissions committee member gives him insights into the medical school and residency application process. His approach to counseling is friendly, structured, and goal-oriented and his broad experience makes him an invaluable resource for aspiring medical students and residents.
Dr. Max H.
University of Washington School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Hunter served as an interviewer on the University of Washington School of Medicine admissions committee for five years. He served as Director of the Preprofessional Health Sciences (PPHS) program at Seattle Pacific University for six years. In this role, he collaborated with the admissions office to promote the PPHS program to applicants and incoming students, provided pre-health advising to program participants, and facilitated courses.
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Dr. Max H.
Title
University of Washington School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Bioethics, Medical Humanities
Education
Undergrad: University of Washington
Graduate School: Harvard University, University of Washington
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Hunter is a devoted family man and culinary enthusiast. He enjoys cooking and dining out, often sharing music with his sons while driving in their convertible Volkswagen.
Dr. Hunter served as an interviewer on the University of Washington School of Medicine admissions committee for five years. He served as Director of the Preprofessional Health Sciences (PPHS) program at Seattle Pacific University for six years. In this role, he collaborated with the admissions office to promote the PPHS program to applicants and incoming students, provided pre-health advising to program participants, and facilitated courses.
Additionally, Dr. Hunter acted as a resource for administrators and faculty outside the PPHS program. He chaired the committee that selected students for PPHS scholarships and led both external and internal advisory committees. He also recruited and trained faculty and students regarding the program's mission and culture. As a professor and program director, Dr. Hunter established a bioethics and medical humanities curriculum to improve his students' understanding of health disparities and the essential social determinants of health.
Dr. Hunter began his higher education journey at the University of Washington, earning an Honors Bachelor’s degree before attending Harvard Divinity School and obtaining an MA in history and philosophy of science and technology. He then attended the Harvard Graduate School of Education, earning an MEd in urban education and leadership and an MA in history of science. He then obtained a PhD in philosophy from the University of Washington before graduating from the UW School of Medicine with a degree in bioethics and medical ethics.
His influence extends to the pre-health advising community, where he has served as a liaison to the American Medical College Association committee, leading the development of a groundbreaking model for holistic medical education. Dr. Hunter's commitment to improving his community is evident through his board membership, where he played a pivotal role in launching non-profit mental health and pediatric clinics that emphasize an integrated health model.
Furthermore, Dr. Hunter taught a humanities-based course focused on health equity through structural competency in healthcare. He collaborated with stakeholders on campus, in the city, and across the state to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Additionally, he partnered with local and national leaders on pipeline programs.
Previously, Dr. Hunter served as Community Co-Lead and Program Manager at the Odessa Brown Children's Clinic, where he developed strategic initiatives, established governance structures, and fostered partnerships with community organizations. Before that, he was Assistant Director & Teaching Fellow at the John Perkins Center at Seattle Pacific University, focusing on diversity and equity education. He also worked as an admissions officer and Wilcox Fellow at Concord Academy, emphasizing diversity in applicant interviews and teaching, and as a Program Manager at Boston Public Schools.
Dr. Hunter has received several prestigious awards, including the Gordon C. Lee Outstanding Dissertation Award from the University of Washington, the McNair Fellowship from the University of Washington, and the Graduate Prize Fellowship from Harvard University. His PhD thesis was titled "Ambivalence and Transformation in Black Male Literacy Narratives: Grounds for Reaching Out to Black Males."
Dr. Hunter is currently the Executive Director of Seattle Narrative-Based Coaching and Consulting, where he implements innovative coaching approaches to improve client engagement and business development. He is also President of the Harvard Black Alumni Society Seattle Chapter and a Board Member of the Martin Family Charitable Foundation. He previously served on the boards of The Epiphany School and the Center for Diversity and Health Equity Community Taskforce at Seattle Children's Hospital.
In his advising sessions, Dr. Hunter emphasizes seven factors that medical school admissions committees consider in their holistic evaluations. The first pillar is academic competence, including grades and test scores. He also stresses the importance of collegiality, volunteer work, and job experience, encouraging students to view their preparation as not just academic but also relational. He helps students identify suitable community service opportunities that foster their moral and professional development.
Another factor involves narrative medicine, highlighting the significance of personal statements and secondary essays as tools for reflection. Medical observation or shadowing is another pillar of his approach; admissions committees value the proactive exploration of the medical field. Building relationships with physicians is crucial, as these contacts can provide valuable letters of evaluation.
Dr. Hunter helps students engage in vocational discernment, reflecting on their fit for a medical career with input from faculty, friends, and mentors. These experiences ultimately help them write thoughtful personal statements and prepare for interviews, clarifying the essential areas of their applications.
Students Dr. Hunter has coached have been accepted to numerous medical programs, including Columbia, University of Washington, Washington University, Wake Forest, Loma Linda, Creighton, UCSD, UC Davis, NYU, Hawaii, Emory, OHSU, University of Chicago, Northwestern, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and many others. With a blend of warmth, humor, and a wealth of experience, Dr. Hunter is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their goals and navigate their unique paths to success.
Dr. Medha S.
Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
Director of Advising
Dr. Sharma attended the University of Pennsylvania before attending the Perelman School of Medicine and the Wharton School to pursue an MD/MBA, fuelling her passion for healthcare delivery innovation at the intersection of business and medicine. After serving as a Perelman interviewer, she joined the admissions committee, equipping her with insider knowledge of what top medical schools seek.
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Dr. Medha S.
Title
Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Dermatology, Hematology–Oncology
Education
Undergrad: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
Graduate School: The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
Fun Fact
Dr. Sharma loves comedy and was a writer and cast member for an all-female sketch comedy troupe in college.
Dr. Sharma attended the University of Pennsylvania before attending the Perelman School of Medicine and the Wharton School to pursue an MD/MBA, fuelling her passion for healthcare delivery innovation at the intersection of business and medicine. After serving as a Perelman interviewer, she joined the admissions committee, equipping her with insider knowledge of what top medical schools seek.
At UPenn, Dr. Sharma graduated magna cum laude with honors in biology and a minor in the biological basis of behavior and healthcare management. She acted as chair of the College of Arts and Science Penn Student Government, Co-Leader at the Cut Hypertension Community Clinic, and Director of Special Events of the Internal Affairs Association. Before entering medical school, Dr. Sharma spent two years working in life sciences consulting at ClearView Healthcare Partners in Boston, gaining experience in the healthcare industry.
At Perelman, Dr. Sharma was actively involved in various initiatives that demonstrated her commitment to healthcare innovation and community service. She has worked with the Penn Medicine/Wharton Fund for Health and Wharton Investment Venture Associates, exploring the intersection of business and medicine. Additionally, Dr. Sharma co-founded an accelerator for social determinants of health startups through Penn HealthX, demonstrating her dedication to addressing the social determinants of health.
Dr. Sharma's research experience includes working at the Center for Surgery and Health Economics, where she has contributed to advancing knowledge in the field of surgery and health economics. Her other involvements at Perelman include the Oncology Interest Group, South Asian Medical Student Association, and Unity Community Clinic, highlighting her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, presented at multiple conferences, and has been featured in academic and media publications. She is also passionate about global health and has worked in Peru, Galapagos, Japan, Morocco, and Botswana.
Dr. Sharma's approach to mentoring is characterized by her enthusiasm, empathy, and dedication to helping others achieve their goals. She is excited to work with applicants from diverse backgrounds and provide personalized guidance and support throughout the medical school application process. Her blend of experience in life sciences consulting, research, and community service, combined with her involvement in medical school admissions, makes her a stellar mentor.
In addition to her medical training, Dr. Sharma has recent experience at Hippocratic AI as a healthcare researcher. She is fluent in Hindi and has mentored students from elementary school through medical school. Dr. Sharma strongly believes in individualized coaching approaches and supporting nontraditional paths in medicine or "medicine plus" interests. Her passion for mentoring and experience in admissions make her an invaluable coach for anyone ready to apply to medical school or MD/MBA programs.
Dr. Megan E.
University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Elcombe is an equine veterinarian with a passion for combining clinical practice with research. She graduated from the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, where she excelled in equine medicine, served as class president, and conducted research in equine genetics. She now works as an associate veterinarian at Maryland Veterinary Group, specializing in Thoroughbred racehorses
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Dr. Megan E.
Title
University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Equine Philosophy
Education
Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University
Veterinary School: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Elcombe has owned her own horse for four years, but has actually known him since birth because he was a Cal Poly Thoroughbred baby. Additionally, she came in second place in both a pie-eating contest and a watermelon-eating contest.
Dr. Elcombe is an equine veterinarian with a passion for combining clinical practice with research. She graduated from the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, where she excelled in equine medicine, served as class president, and conducted research in equine genetics. She now works as an associate veterinarian at Maryland Veterinary Group, specializing in Thoroughbred racehorses
Dr. Elcombe graduated with a BS in animal science with a minor in equine science from California Polytechnic State University. Her undergraduate studies sparked a deep interest in equine reproduction and exercise physiology, leading her to pursue further education in the field. To explore her passion for research and clinical work, she obtained a Master’s degree specializing in equine physiology at Southern Illinois University, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA. During this time, she also interned at a clinic in Western Kentucky that specialized in equine lameness, solidifying her desire to combine research with clinical medicine. Following her master's degree, she worked as a small animal veterinary technician for two years.
Dr. Elcombe graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, where she studied equine medicine. Her time at UC Davis was marked by numerous achievements, including serving as one of the Presidents of her class and the Student Chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), and working as a student technician in the Large Animal Surgery Department of the UC Davis Veterinary Teaching Hospital. She also conducted research on equine genetics through the UC Davis Students Training in Advanced Research (STAR) Program, resulting in a publication in the Equine Veterinary Journal. The research focused on variants associated with equine familial isolated hypoparathyroidism (EFIH) and fragile foal syndrome (FFS) in the US Thoroughbred population. Additionally, Megan was inducted into the Phi Zeta Veterinary Honor Society and selected as a recipient of the Foundation for the Horse/AAEP Coyote Rock Ranch Scholarship, the most prestigious scholarship awarded to equine veterinary students.
As a veterinary admissions consultant, Dr. Elcombe brings firsthand experience of the challenges in the application process. She understands the stress and frustration that applicants can experience with lower GPAs, being a non-traditional student, or navigating the complexities of the admissions process. She is passionate about helping aspiring veterinarians highlight their qualities and minimize the stress of applying to vet school. Her coaching has helped students gain acceptance to numerous veterinary schools, including the University of Georgia, the University of Pennsylvania, Mississippi State University, the University of Florida, Cornell University, and other prestigious institutions.
When she's not working, Dr. Elcombe enjoys spending time with her horse, her cats Sirius and Cissy, and socializing with friends. Dr. Elcombe's combination of academic excellence, research experience, and clinical expertise, coupled with her personal experience with the application process, makes her a great asset for those pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Melissa S.
University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Dr. Styles is a general dentist with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, education, and student mentorship. She graduated from the University of the Pacific’s (UOP) Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, where she served as an admissions ambassador and American Student Dental Association (ASDA) PreDental Officer. Students she’s worked with have been admitted to dental schools at UCSF, UOP, Midwestern, USC, UCLA, the University of Nevada, Oregon Health & Science University, and others.
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Dr. Melissa S.
Title
University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Dentistry, Community Health
Education
Dr. Styles’ supervisor at the clinic was the oral surgeon who removed her wisdom teeth and was one of the first inspirations for her to pursue dentistry.
Fun Fact
Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Dental School: University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Dr. Styles is a general dentist with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, education, and student mentorship. She graduated from the University of the Pacific’s (UOP) Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, where she served as an admissions ambassador and American Student Dental Association (ASDA) PreDental Officer. Students she’s worked with have been admitted to dental schools at UCSF, UOP, Midwestern, USC, UCLA, the University of Nevada, Oregon Health & Science University, and others.
Dr. Styles' journey in dentistry began as a periodontist’s assistant while she was still a student at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, studying kinesiology. Her leadership and initiative were evident when she founded the Students for Health and Well-Being Program. Dr. Styles was also recognized with four community service awards, including a university-wide honor that came with a scholarship. Her commitment to service continued in dental school, where she won three more community service awards, with her proudest moment being her recognition for founding the first University of the Pacific chapter of the American Association of Women Dentists. Today, her dedication to community service is evident in her work at her hometown clinic, where she provides free dental care to veterans and the community.
Dr. Styles' passion for pre-dental consulting was ignited at UOP, when she served as the American Student Dental Association Predental Officer. She played a pivotal role in creating the very first UOP Predental Day, an event that has now evolved into the prestigious Dugoni's Predental Bootcamp. Dr. Styles was instrumental in every step of the process, from speaking to the admissions committee for each section to personally accepting the first 100 students to the inaugural session. Dr. Styles also served as a student admissions ambassador at UOP, conducting one-on-one student interviews and providing feedback directly to the admissions committee. Dr. Styles also served as a tutor to her fellow dental students while at UOP, focusing on hand skills and restorative dentistry. Through her experiences at UOP, she found herself enjoying the admissions process, and she developed a passion for learning every aspect of the application cycle.
Dr. Styles currently works with her local university's mentorship program, which allows students to come and be trained as assistants, gaining valuable experience for their dental school applications. She has been committed to getting to know each student individually to help them find their unique voice and ensure their strengths shine.
Dr. Styles has a tremendous amount of patience, and she takes pride in being friendly and approachable. She has worked with underrepresented students, reapplicants, gap year students, and students from all university grades to provide individualized timelines for building every aspect of the AADSAS application. Students whom she has coached have been accepted to and graduated from many schools across the nation— many of them are now practicing dentists with whom she remains friends today.
Dr. Michael H.
University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Dr. Henderson serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor with the Division of Community Outreach and Engagement at the University of Minnesota. He also serves as the Director of the Mobile Dental Clinic, which plays a critical role in providing dental care to low-income patients and connecting them with permanent dental homes throughout Minnesota.
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Dr. Michael H.
Title
University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Interests and Specialization
General Practice, Hospital Specialty, Public Health, Preventative Dental Education
Education
Undergrad:University of North Dakota
Dental School:University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Fun Fact
When not treating patients or teaching, you'll find him with tools in hand, transforming living spaces, or going on outdoor adventures - just ask how he almost got stranded in Death Valley National Park from a flash flood!!
Dr. Henderson serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor with the Division of Community Outreach and Engagement at the University of Minnesota. He also serves as the Director of the Mobile Dental Clinic, which plays a critical role in providing dental care to low-income patients and connecting them with permanent dental homes throughout Minnesota.
Dr. Henderson earned his BS from the University of North Dakota, where he also gained experience as an academic tutor. He then went on to pursue his dental degree at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Following dental school, Dr. Henderson completed a general practice residency at the University of Minnesota/Fairview Hospital, where his exceptional performance earned him the title of Resident of the Year, as voted by his fellow colleagues and staff.
Dr. Henderson has focused his career on serving rural and community patient populations. After dedicating over five years to practicing as a general dentist, he accepted a full-time position as the Director of the Mobile Dental Clinic. This clinic allows him to combine his passion for dentistry with his commitment to serving underserved communities. He has presented at national conferences regarding the Mobile Dental Clinic and efforts connecting students, staff, and the various communities the Mobile Dental Clinic serves.
As an educator, Dr. Henderson is deeply passionate about oral health education and guiding students to become competent and well-rounded dental practitioners. He adopts a student-centered approach to the education process, taking the time to understand each student's needs and learning styles. By tailoring his teaching methods to individual students, Dr. Henderson fosters an environment that promotes growth and success. Witnessing the progress and transformation of students throughout their educational journey is what motivates him to excel in his role as an educator.
Dr. Henderson's strong clinical and academic experience, combined with his student-centered approach, makes him an exceptional coach for dental school applicants. He possesses the ability to connect with each student on a personal level, identifying their strengths and helping them navigate their weaknesses to create a successful application. Working with Dr. Henderson ensures a highly individualized approach that leads to a smooth and effective application process.
Dr. Michael J.
New York Medical College
Director of Advising
Dr. Jiser is a board-certified general surgeon with expertise in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery, and bariatric surgery. He earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Cornell University before completing an MD at New York Medical College, where he was awarded a Trustee Scholarship and served on the admissions committee as a student member. He continued his medical training at New York Medical College for his surgical residency.
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Dr. Michael J.
Title
New York Medical College
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Laparoscopic Surgery, Bariatric Surgery
Education
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School: New York Medical College
Fun Fact
Dr. Jiser retired from clinical practice after 25+ years of working as a general and bariatric surgeon.
Dr. Jiser is a board-certified general surgeon with expertise in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery, and bariatric surgery. He earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Cornell University before completing an MD at New York Medical College, where he was awarded a Trustee Scholarship and served on the admissions committee as a student member. He continued his medical training at New York Medical College for his surgical residency.
Throughout his career, Dr. Jiser demonstrated a commitment to lifelong learning and the early adoption of emerging technologies and procedures. He developed advanced expertise in bariatric/weight-loss surgery as well as robotic surgery through extensive post-residency training. He founded weight-management programs at Lowell General Hospital, Emerson Hospital, and Nashoba Valley Medical Center—each of which earned American College of Surgeons Center of Excellence certification under his leadership. He has also held multiple high-level positions, including Chief of Surgery, Medical Director of Surgical Services, Medical Director of Bariatric Surgery, and Board Chair of the Lowell General Hospital PHO.
After a distinguished clinical career, he has transitioned into consulting, focusing on utilization management as well as the development and expansion of robotic surgery programs. Dr. Jiser has served as a consultant to several medical device companies, offering expert evaluation of new technologies, participating in case observation, and providing surgical proctoring.
Dr. Jiser has enjoyed mentoring students throughout his career. He has worked with pre-medical, medical, and physician assistant students, offering shadowing experiences that ranged from several days to several weeks in the clinic, on patient rounds, and in the operating room. As a coach, Dr. Jiser prioritizes getting to know each student individually, allowing him to thoughtfully assess their strengths and areas for growth. His easy-going, approachable coaching style creates an environment where students feel comfortable discussing their interests, asking questions, and setting personalized goals.
Dr. Michael M.
The Feinberg School of Medicine
Dr. Manansala is a Senior Fellow at Rush University Medical Center. As an immigrant, he learned how to navigate the overwhelming and complex process of college and medical school admissions on his own. During his application cycle, he achieved a >99th percentile score on the MCAT and received interviews from most of the top 20 medical schools by USNWR rankings.
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Dr. Michael M.
Title
The Feinberg School of Medicine
Interests and Specialization
Internal Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Colgate University
Medical School: Northwestern University - The Feinberg School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Manansala’s major in college was Japanese language studies and he continues to learn the language in his spare time.
Dr. Manansala is a Senior Fellow at Rush University Medical Center. As an immigrant, he learned how to navigate the overwhelming and complex process of college and medical school admissions on his own. During his application cycle, he achieved a >99th percentile score on the MCAT and received interviews from most of the top 20 medical schools by USNWR rankings.
Having personally experienced the difficulties of pursuing a medical education, Dr. Manansala is passionate about helping others who find themselves on a similar path. He understands the challenges and obstacles that aspiring physicians from diverse backgrounds may face, and he is committed to providing guidance and support to help them achieve their dreams.
Dr. Manansala's educational journey began at Colgate University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Japanese Language Studies. After completing his undergraduate studies, Dr. Manansala obtained his MD from The Feinberg School of Medicine. He then went on to complete his residency at the University of Chicago, Illinois, where he spent over four years honing his skills as a physician.
In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Manansala is a prolific author with several first-authored publications in the field of rheumatology, particularly in sarcoidosis. His love for teaching and mentorship extends beyond academia, as he has assisted several medical students and residents in publishing their own research projects to prepare for residency applications. His attention to detail and ability to identify an individual's strengths and weaknesses make him an effective counselor.
Dr. Michael M.
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. McKinney is a board-certified laboratory animal veterinarian currently working at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He pursued higher education in Columbus, Ohio, from college to vet school. He attended Ohio State University, graduating with a BS in agriculture with a major in animal science and a minor in neuroscience, before attending the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
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Dr. Michael M.
Title
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. McKinney has overseen various animal facilities, including rodents and non-human primates. He has also managed large animal surgical models, including sheep, pigs, and dogs.
Dr. McKinney is a board-certified laboratory animal veterinarian currently working at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He pursued higher education in Columbus, Ohio, from college to vet school. He attended Ohio State University, graduating with a BS in agriculture with a major in animal science and a minor in neuroscience, before attending the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Like many, Dr. McKinney’s desire to become a veterinarian began early in life. For most of his education, he wanted to follow a traditional veterinary path and become a small animal veterinarian at his local private practice. Not until vet school did he discover his true passion: “non-traditional” veterinary medicine.
During vet school, he took numerous electives in exotic animal care, laboratory animal medicine, and zoo and wildlife conservation. Dr. McKinney received innumerable scholarships at Ohio State, including the Veterinary Medicine Alumni Scholarship and the Merck Animal Health Veterinary Student Scholarship. He was also inducted into the Phi Zeta Veterinary Honors Society and received the Foster Award for Academic Excellence in Laboratory Animal Medicine. After vet school, the drive to learn more about these fields led him to a two-year residency in laboratory animal medicine and, ultimately, board certification.
As a lab animal veterinarian, Dr. McKinney’s passion for exotic animal species is balanced with his love for biomedical research. As the son of a type 1 diabetic, he understands the value of advancing medicine and producing high-quality research. Furthermore, as a veterinarian, he ensures the quality of this research by using his skills and expertise to ensure that animal health and welfare are held to the highest standards.
Dr. McKinney regularly mentors pre-veterinary students from many backgrounds through his growing outreach program. His approach to coaching is centered on collaboration and, most importantly, teamwork. He focuses on truly understanding each student’s goals and aspirations within veterinary medicine. In this approach, he brings out the incredible passion that all pre-vet students have.
What sets Dr. McKinney apart as a consultant is how he helps students share their passion. Whether writing a personal statement, sharing work experiences, or preparing for an interview, Dr. McKinney helps students find their voice in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Michael P.
New York University College of Dentistry
Master Advisor
Dr. Pham is a resident dentist specializing in periodontology and dental implant surgery at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). As an admissions ambassador at the New York University College of Dentistry for three years and an interviewer for the URMC periodontics program, Dr. Pham has firsthand experience evaluating dental and dental residency applications.
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Dr. Michael P.
Title
New York University College of Dentistry
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Periodontology, Dental Implant Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of Toronto
Graduate School: McGill University Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences
Dental School: New York University College of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Dr. Pham was a former paddler for Canada's national dragon boat team and a competitive eater. His hobbies include portaging, snowboarding, playing spikeball, bouldering, and playing video games and board games.
Dr. Pham is a resident dentist specializing in periodontology and dental implant surgery at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). As an admissions ambassador at the New York University College of Dentistry for three years and an interviewer for the URMC periodontics program, Dr. Pham has firsthand experience evaluating dental and dental residency applications.
Dr. Pham is pursuing a Master’s in health profession education at the University of Rochester Warner School of Education alongside his periodontics residency, further strengthening his ability to provide effective guidance to his students. With a DDS from New York University College of Dentistry and a Master’s of dental sciences from McGill University, Dr. Pham is well-equipped to guide aspiring dentists through the application process.
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Dr. Pham's passion for education began during his undergraduate years at the University of Toronto. There, he excelled as a coach for the university's dragon boat team while pursuing his BS in nutritional sciences and human biology.
At McGill, Dr. Pham was the Co-Founder and Vice President of the National Student Research Group Chapter at the school’s Faculty of Dentistry. In dental school, he spent two years as a teaching assistant and was President of NYU’s American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Chapter, Periodontal Club, and Student Research Group. Additionally, Dr. Pham has acted as a peer reviewer for journals including MDPI (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute), and Wiley for nearly seven years.
Dr. Pham deeply understands the challenges and setbacks that applicants face. He believes the lessons learned from his own journey have been invaluable in his professional growth; they have given him the knowledge and skills necessary to create a stellar application. Through his patient, meticulous, and strategic approach, Dr. Pham deconstructs the application process into manageable steps tailored to each individual's schedule and capabilities. He has a knack for helping students craft exceptional applications that reflect their strengths, experiences, and aspirations.
Dr. Pham is interested in working with all types of students, including reapplicants seeking advice on how to become stronger candidates and early applicants seeking goal-setting support and mentorship. Inspired by the guidance and mentorship he received throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Pham has made it his mission to pay it forward by assisting others in achieving their career aspirations. He is confident in his ability to guide with clarity at every stage of the application process.
Dr. Michael P.
University of Maryland School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Dr. Powell is a practicing dentist with over six years of admissions and coaching experience, specializing in oral surgery, implant dentistry, and dental school admissions strategy. As the owner of multiple dental practices in Florida affiliated with Affordable Dentures & Implants, Dr. Powell leads clinical teams, mentors associate dentists, and trains future dental implant surgeons and aspiring practice owners.
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Dr. Michael P.
Title
University of Maryland School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Oral Surgery, Implant Dentistry
Education
Undergrad: Washington College
Dental School: University of Maryland School of Dentistry
Fun Fact
Dr. Powell is a contributing author to a book published in 2020 on dental school personal statements.
Dr. Powell is a practicing dentist with over six years of admissions and coaching experience, specializing in oral surgery, implant dentistry, and dental school admissions strategy. As the owner of multiple dental practices in Florida affiliated with Affordable Dentures & Implants, Dr. Powell leads clinical teams, mentors associate dentists, and trains future dental implant surgeons and aspiring practice owners.
Dr. Powell graduated magna cum laude from Washington College with a BA in art and art history, a minor in chemistry, and a concentration in pre-dental studies. He was also recognized with the Outstanding Community Service Recognition Award. Dr. Powell went on to earn his DDS from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, where he served on the admissions committee as an interviewer.. His commitment to shaping future dental professionals continued beyond graduation, when he was invited back to Washington College as an alumni interviewer and advisor for their pre-dental committee.
Over the years, Dr. Powell has interviewed many candidates and evaluated applications, giving him deep familiarity with the admissions process from multiple angles. As a contributing author to Dental School Personal Statements: A Resource for Pre-Dental Students, an independently published collection of personal statements, he’s helped countless students write compelling narratives that reflect their strengths and career goals. Dr. Powell believes every applicant has a story worth telling and works closely with students to refine their application materials, strengthen their strategy, and approach the admissions process with clarity and confidence.
Dr. Powell holds fellowships from both the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics. His passion for coaching stems from the mentorship he received on his own path to dentistry, and he’s committed to paying that forward, supporting students every step of the way as they pursue their dental school dreams.
Dr. Powell brings a wealth of firsthand experience with dental school admissions from multiple perspectives: as a candidate himself, as an admissions committee member, and now as a mentor and coach. He is acutely aware of how competitive gaining admission to dental school is and believes each student possesses unique strengths that should be highlighted. He works to identify these qualities and strategizes with each student on how best to position their applications. Dr. Powell looks forward to providing strategy and guidance to future dental colleagues and enjoys being a part of their career journeys.
Dr. Michael R.
University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Dr. Rabizadeh is an orthodontist with extensive experience in clinical practice and dental school admissions. He earned a DDS from the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry, where he served as a student interviewer and co-founded the Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity Nu Chapter. He later completed a certificate in orthodontics at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health and earned a Doctor of Health Education degree from A.T. Still University.
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Dr. Michael R.
Title
University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Orthodontics
Education
Undergrad: California State University, Northridge
Dental School: University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry
Graduate School: Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, A.T. Still University
Fun Fact
Dr. Rabizadeh enjoys traveling with family and exploring new cuisines. He also recently started playing golf.
Dr. Rabizadeh is an orthodontist with extensive experience in clinical practice and dental school admissions. He earned a DDS from the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry, where he served as a student interviewer and co-founded the Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity Nu Chapter. He later completed a certificate in orthodontics at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health and earned a Doctor of Health Education degree from A.T. Still University.
Throughout his career, Dr. Rabizadeh has gained extensive clinical and leadership experience, working in fast-paced orthodontic practices that serve up to 120 patients daily. He currently treats patients at one of the nation’s top Invisalign offices, where he has guided countless patients through successful treatments. His expertise spans a wide range of orthodontic systems and appliances, from traditional braces to advanced aligner therapies, temporary anchorage devices (TADs), and digital technologies, including Lightforce and 3D-printed systems. In addition, he has consulted on insurance appeals and adjudicated dental claims for Medi-Cal, giving him a unique perspective on navigating the complex insurance landscape.
Dr. Rabizadeh has contributed to orthodontic research at leading institutions, including UCSF, ASDOH, and California State University, Northridge, where he completed his undergraduate studies. His publications and projects focused on bone density in hyper- versus hypo-divergent patients, TMD symptoms, and carbohydrate-based experimental therapeutics. His work has been featured in the PCSO Bulletin, and he has been nominated for honors such as Invisalign Resident of the Year and JCO Resident of the Year. He has also lectured on oral health and cardiovascular disease for the nonprofit Mending Hearts and has been recognized with numerous commendations and awards for his academic and professional contributions.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Rabizadeh has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to service and leadership. He has served as an Executive Board Member of the San Fernando Valley Dental Society, a Special Needs in Dentistry Co-Founder and President at UCSF, and a volunteer for outreach programs ranging from Operation Smile in San Francisco to Great Shape 1000 Smiles in Jamaica. His dedication to underserved populations continues to shape his approach to dentistry and mentoring.
As a counselor, Dr. Rabizadeh draws from over four years of admissions committee experience at UCSF and ASDOH, where he interviewed and evaluated applicants, providing him with insider insight into what makes candidates stand out. Dr. Rabizadeh has guided students toward acceptances at top dental programs at UCLA, USC, NYU, and Western University. Known for his step-by-step strategies and ability to simplify the admissions process, he helps students build confidence and highlight their strengths through compelling narratives and well-prepared interviews.
What inspires Dr. Rabizadeh most is the opportunity to support the next generation of dental professionals in achieving their goals. He understands firsthand the challenges of the dental school admissions process and takes pride in helping applicants transform uncertainty into clarity and momentum. His balance of professional expertise and personal warmth makes him a trusted advisor for aspiring dental students.
Dr. Michael S.
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Stonerook holds a DVM and PhD in physiology from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He brings six years of veterinary admissions experience from Lincoln Memorial University, where he served as an application reviewer, interviewer, and committee member with decision-making authority. During his time on the committee, he reviewed over 600 applications annually and interviewed dozens of prospective students each cycle.
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Dr. Michael S.
Title
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Toxicology, Pharmacology, Zoology, Laboratory Animal Medicine, Small Animal Medicine, Exotic Medicine
Education
Undergrad: Ohio State University
Veterinary School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Graduate School: Ohio State University
Fun Fact
Before pivoting to consulting work, Dr. Stonerook worked as Chief Surgeon, Toxicologist, and Pharmacologist at a biotechnology research company.
Dr. Stonerook holds a DVM and PhD in physiology from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He brings six years of veterinary admissions experience from Lincoln Memorial University, where he served as an application reviewer, interviewer, and committee member with decision-making authority. During his time on the committee, he reviewed over 600 applications annually and interviewed dozens of prospective students each cycle.
Dr. Stonerook is a seasoned veterinary toxicologist, pharmacologist, and educator with over two decades of experience across research, academia, and clinical practice. He completed a BS in zoology before graduating with MS, DVM, and PhD degrees from Ohio State University. Dr. Stonerook is a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (ABT) and an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics.
In academia, Dr. Stonerook served for seven years in various teaching roles at Lincoln Memorial University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, serving as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Adjunct Associate Professor. He has many years of experience teaching courses in physiology, pharmacology, and toxicology. Dr. Stonerook’s veterinary experience includes laboratory animal medicine, small animal medicine, exotic medicine, and spay/neuter clinics, while his research has focused on cardiovascular and respiratory pharmacology, inhalation delivery, infusion models, and the development of preclinical study equipment still in use industry-wide. Additionally, he has held roles in the development and testing of equipment and animal models currently in use in safety pharmacology studies throughout the industry.
Dr. Stonerook currently works as a consultant through his firm, Rook Scientific Services, advising on projects in laboratory animal medicine and drug development. He has participated in many roles during his career, including serving as an attending veterinarian, surgical veterinarian, Study Director for pharmaceutical safety pharmacology studies and general toxicology studies (GLP and non-GLP), and manager and director of research groups. He has also been involved in the production of IND packages.
As a mentor and admissions coach, Dr. Stonerook combines his deep scientific background with firsthand admissions insight to help aspiring veterinary students stand out. With a mentorship track record that includes guiding numerous students, he brings a data-driven, strategic, and supportive approach to helping applicants reach their goals.
Dr. Michael Z.
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Master Advisor
Dr. Zhao graduated cum laude with a BS in bioengineering from Rice University and earned an MD from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He pursued his residency training in preventive medicine at the University of Wisconsin, where he also completed an MPH. Before beginning his residency, he served as Medical Director of the Travis State Jail for four years, where he provided comprehensive primary care to inmates and gained valuable experience in public health and correctional medicine.
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Dr. Michael Z.
Title
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Preventive Medicine, Urgent Care, Public Health
Education
Undergrad: Rice University
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Graduate School: University of Wisconsin
Fun Fact
Dr. Zhao finds joy in public health, education, and the preventive principles that form the foundation of lifelong wellness.
Dr. Zhao graduated cum laude with a BS in bioengineering from Rice University and earned an MD from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He pursued his residency training in preventive medicine at the University of Wisconsin, where he also completed an MPH. Before beginning his residency, he served as Medical Director of the Travis State Jail for four years, where he provided comprehensive primary care to inmates and gained valuable experience in public health and correctional medicine.
Dr. Zhao’s path to medicine began early. As treasurer of his high school pre-med club and later valedictorian, he was drawn to primary care and the opportunity to serve underprivileged populations. At Rice University, his studies in bioengineering deepened his appreciation for the science and systems behind health care, and later served as an alumni interviewer. During medical school at UT Southwestern, he explored multiple disciplines before discovering his passion for primary care and preventive medicine—fields that allowed him to combine science, compassion, and public service.
Throughout his career, Dr. Zhao has practiced medicine in diverse environments, including correctional facilities, rural health clinics, and urgent care settings. As Medical Director of Travis State Jail, he specialized in broad-spectrum care for underserved populations. He later served as a rural primary care physician for Medina Hospital, further strengthening his commitment to accessible, community-centered medicine.
Known for his approachable and flexible demeanor, Dr. Zhao takes pride in mentoring future physicians. Long before becoming a medical director, he provided meticulous advice and words of encouragement, edited personal statements, and wrote recommendation letters for aspiring physicians. Students Dr. Zhao has coached have been accepted to every Texas medical school. His dedication to teaching and supporting others reflects his core belief that strong physicians are shaped by mentorship and empathy as much as by training.
Dr. Zhao hopes to become a regional director within a major health care organization. His long-term goal is to share his knowledge and experience with aspiring physicians, helping each student define their goals and reach their full potential.
Dr. Michaela R.
UC Irvine School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Dr. Rand is a resident physician at UC San Diego. She has served as a student interviewer at UC Irvine, where she honed her communication, organization, and empathy skills to guide students through their journey toward healthcare careers. She looks forward to helping students find structure, clarity, and confidence in their medical school applications.
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Dr. Michaela R.
Title
UC Irvine School of Medicine
Master Advisor
Interests and Specialization
Psychiatry
Education
Undergrad:Barnard College, Columbia University
Medical School: University of California, Irvine
Fun Fact
Dr. Rand is a former competitive equestrian showjumper!
Dr. Rand is a resident physician at UC San Diego. She has served as a student interviewer at UC Irvine, where she honed her communication, organization, and empathy skills to guide students through their journey toward healthcare careers. She looks forward to helping students find structure, clarity, and confidence in their medical school applications.
Dr. Rand completed her undergraduate studies at Barnard College, where she majored in English. Driven by her love for literature, she obtained her Master's degree in English and Comparative Literature from Columbia University, further refining her analytical and critical thinking abilities.
While pursuing her passion for literature, Dr. Rand discovered her love for medicine and mental health. Determined to make a positive impact in the healthcare field, she completed the Scripps College Postbaccalaureate Program, which prepared her for the rigors of medical school. Dr. Rand then joined the UC Irvine School of Medicine and received her MD.
Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Rand has demonstrated a strong commitment to tutoring and mentoring. During her time at Barnard College, she worked at the Barnard Writing Center, helping students improve their writing skills and express their ideas effectively. At UC Irvine, she took on the role of a student interviewer, giving her insight into what schools look for in applicants. She also mentored undergraduate pre-med students, providing guidance and support as they navigated their own paths to medicine.
Dr. Rand's passion for helping students find structure and clarity in their thoughts and experiences sets her apart as an admissions counselor. She understands that the medical school and residency application processes can be overwhelming, and she is dedicated to helping students build confidence and highlight their strengths. By working closely with each student, she helps them craft compelling narratives that underscore their personal and academic achievements and commitment to serving others.
Dr. Michelle R.
Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Rivard has been a practicing veterinarian for nearly 10 years and has over five years of experience mentoring pre-vet, vet, and newly graduated vet school students, as well as veterinary technicians, biologists, volunteers, and animal care interns. She is currently an aquatic animal veterinarian overseeing medical care for stranded marine mammals at SR3 (SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation, and Research), a rehabilitation facility near Seattle. She responds to field emergencies, conducts postmortems and research, and mentors volunteers and staff at the center.
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Dr. Michelle R.
Title
Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Marine Mammals, Aquatic Animals, and Wildlife, Research
Education
Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
Veterinary School:Michigan State University
Fun Fact
Dr. Rivard enjoys spending her free time hiking, camping, and paddleboarding in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and dog.
Dr. Rivard has been a practicing veterinarian for nearly 10 years and has over five years of experience mentoring pre-vet, vet, and newly graduated vet school students, as well as veterinary technicians, biologists, volunteers, and animal care interns. She is currently an aquatic animal veterinarian overseeing medical care for stranded marine mammals at SR3 (SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation, and Research), a rehabilitation facility near Seattle. She responds to field emergencies, conducts postmortems and research, and mentors volunteers and staff at the center.
After graduating from Michigan State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, she spent four years serving in the US Army Veterinary Corps, where she provided veterinary care for Military Working Dogs and service members' pets.
Following her military service, Dr. Rivard transitioned to a career dedicated to marine mammal medicine and conservation. She completed a yearlong aquatic animal medicine and research internship at Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut, followed by a two-year veterinary fellowship at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, California. These experiences provided her with the specialized training and expertise necessary to excel in her current role at SR3.
Dr. Rivard's commitment to the health and welfare of marine wildlife extends beyond her clinical work. She actively participates in research projects aimed at deepening our understanding of the threats and challenges faced by marine mammals in the wild. By rescuing and caring for sick and injured animals, Dr. Rivard and the team at SR3 learn about conservation efforts and help protect these species for future generations. As a passionate advocate for marine conservation, Dr. Rivard plays an important role in promoting the health and welfare of marine wildlife in the Pacific Northwest.
Dr Rivard’s greatest strength as a consultant is that she is incredibly organized and exceptionally skilled at creating a plan and breaking down short-term and long-term deadlines. She is flexible and open-minded. One of her favorite parts about working with students is learning more about their unique perspectives and supporting their individuality to help them navigate decisions.
Dr. Rivard stands out as a versatile veterinarian with a wealth of experience across diverse career fields, including small animal private practice, government and military roles, public health, zoo and aquarium medicine, and wildlife fieldwork. This background allows her to provide expert guidance to students exploring various paths within the veterinary profession.
Through her passion for mentoring, Dr. Rivard has developed a deep understanding of the specialty programs offered by each veterinary school and is well-acquainted with post-graduate opportunities such as internships, fellowships, and residencies in academic, private practice, and non-profit settings, on both traditional and non-traditional career paths.
Working with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences has helped her learn how to tailor teaching and mentoring techniques to educate students in the best way possible. It has also provided her with several unique perspectives that she applies to the learning of future students.
Dr. Michie A.
Tufts University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Dr. Adjei is a general surgery resident at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center with a strong foundation in academic medicine, leadership, and admissions. She earned an MD from Tufts University School of Medicine, where she served on both the admissions committee and curriculum development committee. With years of mentorship experience and a portfolio of NIH-funded research, Dr. Adjei brings strategic insight and compassion to her work as an admissions counselor.
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Dr. Michie A.
Title
Tufts University School of Medicine
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
General Surgery
Education
Undergrad: University of Central Florida
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Fun Fact
Dr. Adjei was recognized with the KUH-ART Fellowship and awarded NIH grants TL1 DK132768 and U2C DK129496.
Dr. Adjei is a general surgery resident at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center with a strong foundation in academic medicine, leadership, and admissions. She earned an MD from Tufts University School of Medicine, where she served on both the admissions committee and curriculum development committee. With years of mentorship experience and a portfolio of NIH-funded research, Dr. Adjei brings strategic insight and compassion to her work as an admissions counselor.
Dr. Adjei offers students a unique perspective drawn from her experience evaluating applications and interviewing prospective students for both Tufts University School of Medicine and Cedars-Sinai’s General Surgery Residency Program. Her thoughtful, student-centered approach helps applicants confidently navigate the complexities of medical school and residency admissions.
Throughout her career, Dr. Adjei has been dedicated to supporting students, whether as a Faculty Advisor for the National Youth Leadership Forum in Medicine or as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ambassador during residency. Her leadership roles, including serving as Administrative Chief Resident, reflect her commitment to fostering excellence and collaboration in medicine.
In addition to her clinical training, Dr. Adjei has an active research portfolio with publications and presentations in transplantation and organ utilization, bringing a breadth of academic and professional expertise to her advising. Drawing on her experience as both an applicant and a reviewer, she provides students with practical, personalized guidance on navigating the highly competitive process of medical school and residency admissions.
What sets Dr. Adjei apart is her ability to connect with students on a personal level. She understands the resilience, curiosity, and heart it takes to pursue medicine, and she takes pride in helping applicants discover their authentic stories and showcase their strengths with confidence. With her background in leadership, research, and clinical excellence, she brings not only expertise but also a genuine passion for mentorship.
Dr. Adjei knows how challenging and competitive the journey to medical school and residency can feel, and she’s committed to guiding students through every step with encouragement, strategy, and insight. Dr. Adjei believes that every student’s journey into medicine is unique and worth celebrating—and she’s dedicated to helping them succeed while staying true to themselves.
Dr. Mihailo M.
University of Texas Dell Medical School
Director of Advising
Dr. Miljanic is the Chief Resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center’s radiology oncology program and graduated at the top of his class with honors from the University of Texas Dell Medical School. He served as an interviewer for the UT Austin Dell Medical School admissions committee and as a voting member on the UT Southwestern residency admission committee, evaluating hundreds of applications.
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Dr. Mihailo M.
Title
University of Texas Dell Medical School
Director of Advising
Interests and Specialization
Radiation Oncology
Education
Undergrad: Boston College
Graduate School: University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Fun Fact
Dr. Miljanic enjoys paddleboarding on the lake, listening to live music, and running outdoors with his Border Collie, Stella.
Dr. Miljanic is the Chief Resident at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center’s radiology oncology program and graduated at the top of his class with honors from the University of Texas Dell Medical School. He served as an interviewer for the UT Austin Dell Medical School admissions committee and as a voting member on the UT Southwestern residency admission committee, evaluating hundreds of applications.
Prior to medical school, Dr. Miljanic graduated magna cum laude from Boston College with a BS in biological science. Between college and medical school, he spent three years teaching high school AP Chemistry and AP Physics to socioeconomically disadvantaged communities through Teach for America in Dallas, Texas. Upon entering medical school, he co-founded the Health Career Collaborative - Austin with two former Teach for America colleagues. This mentorship program has served hundreds of pre-medical students, reflecting Dr. Miljanic's ongoing commitment to supporting aspiring healthcare professionals. For his work in founding this academy, Dr. Miljanic and his co-founders were honored with the United States Excellence in Public Health Award, a national recognition from the U.S. government.
Dr. Miljanic’s contributions to the medical field extend beyond clinical practice, as he has published multiple papers in prestigious peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing medical knowledge and research. Throughout his career, he has mentored dozens of students with diverse backgrounds who have been accepted into MD and residency programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, UCLA, UCSD, USC, and more.
Throughout Dr. Miljanic’s residency training, he has published multiple papers in prestigious peer-reviewed journals. He also concurrently earned an MBA from the University of Texas at Dallas. Dr. Miljanic's combination of academic excellence, teaching experience, and dedication to mentorship makes him an excellent source of knowledge for aspiring medical professionals. His journey from a high school teacher to a top-performing medical student and now resident physician proves his ability to navigate the challenges of medical education and career development successfully.
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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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