Dr. Karina C.

Before medical school, Dr. Charipova graduated summa cum laude as a James Monroe Scholar from the College of William & Mary, earning degrees in neuroscience and mathematics. During medical school, she was recognized as a Dean’s Research Scholar. Dr. Charipova has been recognized for not only clinical excellence but also for her dedication to teaching. She earned the String of Pearls Resident Educator Award from the Georgetown University School of Medicine as well as the Medical Student Teaching Award from the Department of Plastic Surgery for her commitment to medical student education. She led the effort in formalizing the medical student clinical experience in plastic surgery and has coordinated the program for the last six years. After completing her residency, Dr. Charipova plans to pursue specialized training in microsurgery at the University of Pennsylvania.

Dr. Charipova also brings an extensive research background to her advising. She has conducted basic science research in neuroscience and burn surgery as well as clinical research in oncology. Within plastic surgery alone, she has contributed to more than 40 publications, three textbook chapters, and presentations at regional and national meetings. Journals where her work has been published include Clinics in Plastic Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, and other peer-reviewed publications. 

Her experience mentoring students began long before residency. During college, she worked as an SAT instructor and tutored high school students applying to competitive STEM magnet schools. In medical school, she gained direct exposure to how admissions committees evaluate applicants, and throughout residency she has continued interviewing residency candidates and participating in career panels. Altogether, she brings over 12 years of mentorship experience to her role as a counselor.

Dr. Charipova believes that even as the medical school application process becomes increasingly competitive, there is a way for each applicant to find a way to stand out. She understands that admissions committees review slews of applications that blend together when it comes to scores, clinical hours, and extracurricular experiences. As an admissions consultant, she is committed to ensuring that she gets to know every single student to genuinely understand their reasons for pursuing medicine and career goals. Dr. Charipova understands that while the path there may be complex, even unexpected obstacles can be presented authentically to reflect each applicant’s unique journey to medicine.