Our Interview With Kat Kinnard, President of the University of Holy Cross American Medical Student Association (AMSA)

Kat Kinnard is the President of the University of Holy Cross American Medical Student Association (ASMA), an organization dedicated to empowering future healthcare professionals through networking, education, community service, and career exploration.

Can you tell us what’s unique about your pre-health society and your role as president? 

One unique aspect of our pre-health society is that our small student body fosters close-knit relationships. Because we aren’t a massive group, every member has more opportunities to get involved, connect directly with peers and mentors, and feel like a valued part of the community. 

As president, I’ve been able to lean into that intimacy by organizing events and initiatives that reflect our members' interests and needs and fostering a space where everyone feels supported in their pre-health journey. It’s less about formality and more about growing together as future healthcare professionals. 

What inspired you to pursue leadership within the pre-health community at your school? 

What inspired me to pursue leadership within the pre-health community was the desire to create a more connected and supportive environment for students like myself who are navigating the challenges of the pre-health path. I saw how overwhelming it could be, and I wanted to help build a space where people felt comfortable asking questions, finding resources, and forming meaningful relationships. Being in a smaller school setting, I realized we had a unique opportunity to really know one another and grow together, and I wanted to take an active role in making that happen.

What advice would you give to a first-year student just beginning their pre-med journey? 

I’d tell a first-year student to focus on building a strong foundation both academically and personally. Stay curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to seek help early on. Get involved in activities that genuinely interest you, not just what you think will “look good” later. And most importantly, surround yourself with a support system. Whether that’s friends, mentors, or clubs like us! This journey can be tough, but having people to grow with makes it not only manageable but also meaningful. 

How do members of your society typically prepare for the MCAT, and what strategies or resources have been most effective? 

Members of our society usually start by creating a structured study plan several months in advance, often breaking down content areas week by week. A lot of us use resources like Kaplan, Princeton Review, UWorld, and AAMC practice materials, with UWorld and AAMC question banks being especially helpful for getting used to the exam format and style. 

Another approach many of our members take is starting with a diagnostic test to identify strengths and weaknesses, then tailoring their study plan accordingly. A lot of students find success using a combination of Anki for content retention, especially for subjects like biochem and psych/soc, and resources like the AAMC section banks and full-length exams to practice applying that knowledge. 

One of the most helpful strategies has been using a calendar to map out study goals and build in rest days to avoid burnout. It’s not just about how much you study—it’s about studying smart and staying consistent.

What’s one initiative your society has introduced that’s had a meaningful impact on its members? 

One initiative that’s truly made a difference for our members is the creation of the “Kinnard and Leban AMSA Annex,” a project my best friend and I brought to life. It all started with student feedback. Many were struggling to find accessible and quiet places to study. What began as a conversation turned into something much bigger. We worked together to establish a dedicated space on campus that’s now fully stocked with every study essential you could think of. It’s become a reliable and welcoming spot for pre-health students to study, collaborate, and feel like they have a home base on campus. 

What do you think are the skills students can gain from joining an organization like yours? 

Joining an organization like ours offers so much more than just academic support. Students gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills by taking on roles within the group. They also build strong communication skills, whether it's networking with healthcare professionals, collaborating with peers, or mentoring younger students. 

Time management is another big one. Balancing meetings, volunteering, and studying helps members learn how to stay organized and prioritize effectively. And maybe most importantly, they gain a sense of confidence and community, knowing they’re not navigating the pre-health journey alone. 

What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself through leading a group of aspiring healthcare professionals? 

One thing I’ve learned about myself through leading this group is how much I value building community and lifting others. I’ve found that I thrive when I’m creating spaces where people feel supported, heard, and encouraged to grow. It’s taught me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening, learning alongside others, and being willing to show up consistently for your group. That’s something I’ll carry with me into medicine and beyond.

Inspira Advantage is proud to interview experts like Kat Kinnard to help pre-medical students understand the advantages of extracurricular involvement in college. Learn more about how our experts can help you get into medical school today.