Dermatology
Undergrad: Harvard
Medical School: Stanford University School of Medicine
Dr. Gomez is a stand-up comedian in his free time.
Dr. Gomez began his journey at Stanford, where he graduated with a BA in human evolutionary biology. While there, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation. He managed the Pacific Free Clinic, creating a course on the impact of climate change on human health that was integral to changing the curriculum at Stanford. His research focused on telemedicine, demonstrating his commitment to advancing healthcare technology. Additionally, he has experience with healthcare venture capital and private equity, further solidifying his understanding of the business side of healthcare.
Dr. Gomez's teaching experience at Stanford University School of Medicine includes roles as a Student Tutor, Curriculum Developer, Teaching Assistant, and Graduate Teaching Assistant for Applied Biochemistry. His journey to becoming a dual-degree holder began with two gap years spent working for early-stage healthcare start-ups, where he gained experience in the healthcare industry. His professional endeavors include co-founding Branch Care, where he serves as Associate Medical Director. Branch Care aims to provide high-quality fertility care in every zip code by equipping local clinicians to deliver care under the supervision of top fertility specialists.
Dr. Gomez's passion for counseling stems from his desire to increase diversity in medicine. He began his coaching career helping underrepresented students, including first-gen, low-income applicants, applicants of color, LGBTQ+ students, and others. His commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the medical field drives his work as a consultant.
Dr. Gomez excels as a thought partner for storytelling and narrative structure, providing detailed feedback on applications, and offering insights from his time on the admissions committee. His expertise and dedication have earned him a reputation as a trusted and experienced medical school advisor.
Dr. Gomez takes an individualized approach to each applicant, learning about their unique needs and goals. He understands that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and tailors his guidance to support each student's success. With his mix of medical expertise, business acumen, and entrepreneurial spirit, Dr. Gomez is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the field of medicine. His passion for innovation and education makes him an excellent resource for aspiring medical professionals and entrepreneurs alike.
Urology
Undergrad: The University of Michigan
Medical School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
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'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.
He 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 applications for half of all interviewed candidates, personally interviewing over 25 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 broad experience as a counselor, advising peers and students throughout medical school in both formal and informal settings, makes him an invaluable resource for aspiring medical students and residents.
Otolaryngology
Undergrad: Columbia College at Columbia University
Medical School: NYU Grossman School of Medicine
A true New Yorker at heart, Dr. Winchester loves a good everything bagel with scallion cream cheese and enjoys long runs in Central Park. She is also a fan of exploring the city's vibrant cocktail scene, drawing from her experience as a bartender during her college years.
Dr. Winchester completed her undergraduate studies at Columbia College at Columbia University, receiving a full academic scholarship as an honored John Jay Scholar. While pursuing her studies, she worked in a genomics lab conducting bench research.
After her undergraduate education, Dr. Winchester took a two-year break to work in clinical research. She initially worked for Dr. Chan, exploring the role of genetic mutations in sensorineural hearing loss, and then focused on clinical research projects involving virology and the spread of disease at the NYULH Department of Emergency Medicine. Despite her busy schedule, she also tutored high school students in preparation for the SAT/ACT while applying to medical schools herself. Dr. Winchester attended NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s accelerated 3-year pathway and is training in the Department of Otolaryngology. After residency, she hopes to pursue a fellowship in Neurotology.
Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Winchester has always been passionate about mentorship. She has tutored middle schoolers in science and math and assisted them with SAT/ACT preparation and college essays. While in medical school, she was involved in admissions, participating in the NYU multiple mini interview process.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Winchester enjoys helping students identify and communicate their strengths and passions through their applications. Recognizing that every applicant has key strengths that they need to frame, she enjoys helping them determine their best approach. Her greatest strengths include helping students develop their personal stories and organization – think a good to-do list and lots of color coding!
Ophthalmology
Undergrad: Davidson College
Medical School: Duke University School of Medicine
Dr. Akrobetu enjoys listening to podcasts at 2x speed, stays active by playing soccer and hiking, and has a keen interest in breweries, live music, and concerts.
Dr. Akrobetu graduated with a 3.99 GPA from Davidson College, where he majored in biology and minored in chemistry. His outstanding academic performance and involvement in several research projects, including investigations into the genetics of mitochondrial morphology and glycopolymer scaffold synthesis, earned him grant funding to travel to the University of Dusseldorf in Germany for his research. His exceptional achievements in scientific research at the undergraduate level were recognized with the prestigious National Goldwater Scholarship.
After graduation, Dr. Akrobetu earned an MD from Duke University School of Medicine. During his time at Duke, he demonstrated strong leadership skills, serving as class president and spearheading an annual, year-long educational program for underprivileged high school students interested in medicine. His dedication to academic excellence and community engagement was evident in his medical school application, which received the highest possible rating from Davidson College in its internal review process.
As the first in his family to become a doctor, Dr. Akrobetu took it upon himself to learn the ins and outs of the medical school application process and is passionate about making medical school accessible for everyone, regardless of background. His commitment to equity and inclusion in medical education is a driving force behind his coaching success.
Dr. Akrobetu's admissions experience enables him to take a nuanced approach to holistic application review. He has a comprehensive understanding of how to strategically shape each facet of a student's application, positioning them as the most competitive candidate. His expertise in crafting compelling narratives, highlighting unique experiences, and showcasing academic and extracurricular achievements ensures that students stand out in the highly competitive medical school admissions process.
Pediatrics, Neonatology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
Undergrad: Vanderbilt University
Medical School: University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine
Dr. Burdick is an enthusiast of strong coffee and live music. She is a seasoned marathon runner who has triumphed in the Boston and Nashville races and is committed to fitness. She is a culinary adventurer who enjoys cooking international cuisines and has a love for dogs that’s unparalleled.
Dr. Burdick's medical education journey began outside of Boston where she attended Vanderbilt University. There, she pursued a diverse academic path, majoring in neuroscience, Spanish, and biology. During her time at Vanderbilt, Dr. Burdick gained experience that shaped her future success. She served as a pre-med advisor, providing guidance and support to fellow students navigating the path to medical school. Additionally, she engaged in clinical research, graduating with several first-author publications, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. She also volunteered at various organizations, including St. Jude's fundraising, a local food bank, and as an ESL instructor.
Dr. Burdick's exceptional academic achievements and diverse experiences paved the way for her admission to the T.H. Chan School of Medicine, where she received several scholarships in recognition of her potential. Dr. Burdick continued to excel, serving on the admissions committee and providing advice regarding the selection process. Her commitment to research was further solidified when she received a national grant for her health services research. Dr. Burdick's community work also garnered recognition, as she was featured on local news channels for her efforts.
Dr. Burdick thrived clinically at the Boston Combined Residency Program in Pediatrics, where she received several awards to fund her research. She values meaningful patient connections and emphasizes the importance of enjoying life outside of medicine. She understands the complexities of navigating the path to becoming a doctor while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and she is committed to sharing her experiences and strategies with students.
With years of mentoring experience, Dr. Burdick has been guiding students since high school and continued through her undergraduate and medical school years. Now in residency, she provides self-empowerment and helps students lead their application cycles, offering guidance, advice, and edits while allowing them to take charge.
What sets Dr. Burdick apart as a consultant is her person-first focus. She believes that medical school is a unique experience that should fit personal needs and future desires, creating four years of great memories where one learns medicine and grows as a person. She prioritizes personal happiness in her life and with every student.
Her greatest strengths as a consultant include her detail-oriented approach and her ability to focus on both small details and big-picture thinking. She pays special attention to personal branding and how candidates present themselves in their applications, ensuring well-rounded care.
Dr. Burdick approaches each counseling session with organization and focus, aiming to answer questions, alleviate anxieties, and organize students for a straightforward, task-based application process. Her passion for counseling stems from the support she received from countless mentors, networking calls, and advice throughout her journey. She feels indebted to them and is committed to giving back by helping guide the future of healthcare professionals.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Undergrad: California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
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 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. Her dedication and hard work were evident in her ability to score in the 96th percentile on the MCAT while working three jobs and attending school full-time.
Dr. Munoz's academic prowess continued to grow at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, where she graduated after scoring above the 90th percentile on both USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. 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 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals.
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.
Transplant Surgery
Undergrad: University of California, Irvine
Medical School: University of California, Irvine
Graduate School: Northwestern University
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 has been awarded the Gold Humanism Honor Society Award and the Golden Scalpel – Resident Teacher of the Year Award, awards 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 received his undergraduate and medical education from UC Irvine and 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 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 8,662 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 medical and residency admissions and assisting applicants from various backgrounds in crafting compelling applications that showcase their qualities and experiences. His dedication to mentorship and his understanding of the challenges faced by applicants make him an invaluable asset to those pursuing a career in medicine.
Emergency Medicine and Public Health
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
In her free time, Dr. Tardino loves to be outdoors, draw and paint, hang out with friends, and go for long runs around her neighborhood. In the past year, she ran her first full marathon.
Dr. Tardino's journey began at Cornell University, where she studied human development, Spanish, and gerontology as a first-generation college student. During her time at Cornell, she gained international experience through a public health study abroad program in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and became fluent in Spanish. After graduating from Cornell, Dr. Tardino took a gap year and worked as an Emergency Department Medical Scribe in Houston, TX, further solidifying her interest in the medical field. Additionally, she volunteered her time teaching weekly ESL classes to recent immigrants and refugees, demonstrating her commitment to community service.
Notably, during her senior year, Dr. Tardino was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and actively participated in her school's admissions committee. This experience helped her understand exactly what the medical school admissions process looks like, enabling her to guide aspiring physicians through the application journey.
With her diverse background, commitment to community service, and firsthand experience on an admissions committee, Dr. Tardino is well-equipped to help students achieve their dreams of becoming physicians. Her perspective and understanding of the challenges faced by applicants make her an invaluable asset to those navigating the complex medical school admissions process.
Bioethics and Medical Humanities
Undergrad: University of Washington
Graduate School: Harvard University, University of Washington
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine
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. He loves relaxing, people-watching, and spending quality time with his family while strolling along Alki Beach in West Seattle.
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.
As a former Program Coordinator at the Community Innovation Hub at Odessa Brown Community Clinics, Dr. Hunter combines his education, experiences, and extensive network to uplift marginalized communities. He actively participates in initiatives in Seattle's Central District and South End, focusing on community-engaged evaluations that aim to transform health disparities among underserved pediatric patients into actionable community solutions.
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.
Dr. Hunter’s extensive education, paired with his professional and admissions experience, allows him to offer a unique perspective that helps students break down the admissions process and succeed on their path to medical school.
Emergency Medicine
Undergrad: Brown University
Business School: Duke Fuqua School of Business
Medical School: Duke University School of Medicine
Dr. Harshbarger is a scuba diver, an Ironman athlete, a two-time Boston Marathon competitor, and a recent Level I certified Sommelier. She dreams of studying fine fragrances in Paris, learning how to knit, and performing a stand-up comedy set.
Dr. Harshbarger attended Brown University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. She then spent two years working full-time in clinical research at Massachusetts General Hospital before attending medical school at the Duke University School of Medicine. While at Duke, she earned her MD and spent two years pursuing full-time studies at the Duke Fuqua School of Business, where she achieved Dean's List each semester to earn an MBA with a certificate in Health Sector Management and a concentration in Financial Statement Analysis. She graduated as the first doctor in her family and went on to match at her number one choice residency in Emergency Medicine at Harvard, where she now works as a senior resident physician in the Emergency Room.
Dr. Harshbarger's passion for mentorship and admissions has been a driving force throughout her academic career. Her exceptional skills and dedication have earned her national accolades in Collegiate Mock Trial and distinctions in public speaking, prose, and poetry. She has published in top scientific journals and worked in labs spanning from animal to human subjects, most notably at MIT's Picower Institute.
As a mentor, Dr. Harshbarger's greatest strength lies in her ability to draw from her diverse experiences and provide comprehensive guidance to her mentees. Her firsthand knowledge of the medical school admissions process, combined with her business acumen and research background, allows her to offer deep insights and strategies to help students navigate the competitive landscape of medical education.
Internal Medicine, Oncology, Hematology
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
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 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 gone on to top medical schools. Dr. Warner is currently a Hematology/Oncology fellow at the National Institutes of Health.
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. Since then, Dr. Warner has authored 10+ peer-reviewed publications over her career.
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, Dr. Warner 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.
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. Her expertise extends to residency and internal medicine fellowship applications, making her a valuable mentor throughout a student's medical education journey.
Her passion for counseling stems from her own experiences applying to medical school and residency. 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.
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. A recent success story includes 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. Warner brings meticulous attention to detail, vast experience working with students, and insider knowledge of how medical school and residency admissions committees operate and review applicants. She is passionate about helping students achieve their educational and professional goals.
Radiology, Engineering
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Dr. Gupta backpacked in Italy, Switzerland, and France during college! He enjoys spending time with his dog, indulging in dark chocolate Oreos (which he insists are superior to regular Oreos), watching sports, and exploring culinary interests through grilling and baking.
Dr Gupta’s higher education journey began at Duke University, where he graduated summa cum laude with a degree in biomedical engineering, earning departmental distinction for his exceptional academic performance. He has also served as a Duke University alumni interviewer, providing him with insider knowledge into the key ingredients of a successful interview.
Driven by his passion for the intersection of medicine and technology, he worked as a bioengineer at the Maryland Development Center for over three years. In this role, he contributed to the development of ultrasound and trauma wound management systems, underscoring his commitment to advancing patient safety, quality improvement, and innovation in healthcare.
Dr. Gupta’s passion for counseling stems from the support he has received from great mentors throughout his life. Dr. Gupta recognizes the value of having a supportive mentor on this challenging journey, and he is dedicated to providing that same level of support to students.
What sets Dr. Gupta apart as a consultant is his personalized approach. He works with a small handful of students each year, providing them with dedicated attention and crafting unique, specific plans to maximize their success. He believes that each applicant is different and should not be treated as fitting into a cookie-cutter mold.
Dr. Gupta's greatest strengths as a consultant lie in his extensive experience with consulting, and his ability to quickly identify a student’s strengths and weaknesses. In his mentoring role, he excels at helping applicants craft narratives that highlight their individual experiences and create cohesive stories. His experience as an alumni interviewer at Duke and his success in guiding numerous students through the medical school application process makes him a valuable resource for aspiring medical professionals. His mentorship spans a wide range, from middle school to medical students, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to education at all levels.
Each counseling session with Dr. Gupta is goal-oriented, yet flexible to accommodate the unexpected. He lets the students drive the sessions by identifying what they want to focus on and discuss, ensuring they are equipped with the resources and plans needed to answer their questions
Dr. Gupta's non-traditional interests and experiences in medicine position him to guide students with diverse backgrounds and aspirations. He is particularly adept at helping applicants find their personal journey in medicine and is eager to work with students to help them achieve their goals. His entrepreneurial experience and genuine passion for mentoring make him a motivational guide for those navigating the complex path to medical school.
Neurology
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Dr. Sudhir loves to bake—she was one of her school winners in an Iron Chef competition where she made rhubarb streusel muffins. She also enjoys hiking and recently traveled to Zion National Park.
Dr. Sudhir's passion for medicine took root in Iowa, where she grew up and developed an early interest in the field. During her undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins, Dr. Sudhir was Medical Student Mentor Committee Chair for Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED), and spent over two years as an EM, providing emergency medical services for community members in and near the Hopkins Homewood Campus.
After completing college, Dr. Sudhir began her gap year at UCSF, where she served as a lab manager and conducted an independent research project in neuro-oncology. Her exceptional research skills and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge were evident in her co-first authorship of a paper stemming from this project, as well as her achievement of winning the best poster award at the Society for Neuro-Oncology Conference.
Dr. Sudhir’s academic pursuits continued at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Her academic journey has been marked by a strong commitment to research, with an impressive 14 publications to her name, reflecting her dedication to advancing medical knowledge and contributing to the scientific community.
Beyond her academic and research pursuits, Dr. Sudhir has been actively engaged in mentoring and tutoring activities from college through medical school. She has guided pre-medical students through the medical school application process by reviewing personal statements, secondaries, and conducting mock interviews, sharing her expertise and insights to help aspiring medical students achieve their goals. Dr. Sudhir is passionate about mentorship and is committed to helping future physicians navigate the admissions process confidently.
Pediatrics, Cardio
Undergrad: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
In her spare time, Dr. Dominy enjoys casual volleyball games, spin classes, succulent caretaking, and sewing. She also holds a 2nd-degree black belt.
Dr. Dominy's academic journey led her to UPenn, where she pursued a major in biomedical engineering and a minor in engineering entrepreneurship. Her passion for teaching and computer science was evident through her role as a teaching assistant in the computer science department. During her time at UPenn, Dr. Dominy involved herself in various projects within the med-tech space. She’s the co-founder and developer of a patient education app that provides information to patients about their upcoming medical procedures. Additionally, she worked at a pediatric oncology data science lab at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, leveraging large datasets to write algorithms for analyzing antibiotic resistance in solid cancer patients.
Demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit, Dr. Dominy worked with a team on a year-long project to create a prototype strategy and go-to-market plan for an ingestible device designed to collect images of a patient's gastrointestinal tract for diagnostic purposes. Her senior thesis in biomedical engineering focused on the history of intrauterine device development and future strategies to improve the field, demonstrating her ability to critically analyze and propose innovative solutions.
During her time at ISMMS, she conducted computational clinical research, utilizing machine learning techniques to predict pediatric vs. adult cancer outcomes and employing natural language processing to understand patient perspectives on various aspects of healthcare across social media platforms. Her in-depth research has resulted in numerous first-author publications and presentations at both national and international conferences.
Dr. Dominy's innovative spirit and commitment to women's health were recognized when she and a co-founder were awarded the Women's Impact Award from the Diversity Innovation Hub at Mount Sinai for their project, 3iuD. This groundbreaking project involves the development of a 3D-printed intrauterine contraceptive device that is custom-designed and fitted to an individual's uterus using transvaginal ultrasound technology. Dr. Dominy is currently in the process of building a team and developing a prototype for this revolutionary device.
Alongside her research endeavors, Dr. Dominy dedicated her time to volunteering at Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary neuromuscular clinic, which provides integrative, multi-specialty care for cerebral palsy patients and their families. She assisted providers clinically and facilitated the distribution and administration of research surveys to patients and their families.
Dr. Dominy’s ultimate goal is to become a pediatric cardiologist who combines large-data clinical research with collaborations with device companies in the cardiology space. Her experience working in the medical school admissions office at ISMMS has provided her with what top medical schools seek in applicants. As a creative problem solver, Dr. Dominy is well-equipped to work with students from all backgrounds and experiences, helping them craft compelling applications that highlight their stories.
Internal Medicine
Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Graduate School: Rutgers University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Dr. Patel enjoys spending time with family and friends, running, listening to podcasts, and cheering for Liverpool FC. He also has a black belt in karate.
Dr. Patel's academic journey began at the College of New Jersey, where he graduated from the honors program with a Bachelor's degree in biology and a minor in economics. Following his undergraduate studies, he dedicated a year to City Year, an AmeriCorps program, providing classroom and after-school support to 9th-grade students in Queens, NY. This experience deepened his commitment to education and community service.
Before entering medical school, Dr. Patel obtained a Master's degree in biomedical sciences at Rutgers University, further strengthening his scientific foundation. He then matriculated at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS), where he excelled academically and in community service. As a student doctor at the Promise Clinic, he provided care for uninsured patients in the local community, demonstrating his commitment to accessible healthcare.
Dr. Patel's passion for teaching and mentorship is evident in his diverse experiences. He has worked as an SAT and MCAT tutor and has coached inmates for the GED at a correctional facility. At Rutgers RWJMS, he helped coordinate the mentorship program between master’s biomedical sciences students and first-year medical students.
As a mentor, Dr. Patel has successfully guided numerous applicants through the medical school application process. He understands the challenges of the application process and excels at breaking it down into manageable steps. His approach focuses on helping applicants convey their motivations and highlight their individual achievements.
Internal Medicine/Pediatrics
Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Graduate: Yale School of Medicine
Residency: University of Michigan Medical School
Aside from reading Harry Potter to his infant son, Dr. Ladines-Lim enjoys fine dining, a good gin and tonic, running, and various podcasts.
Born in Baltimore, Dr. Ladines-Lim obtained his undergraduate degrees at the University of Maryland before pursuing a PhD in chemical engineering at MIT. His medical education at Yale School of Medicine further solidified his passion for medicine and his desire to make a global impact.
Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Ladines-Lim has been involved in various international projects. He worked for the Bertha Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town. During medical school, he 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, further showcasing his commitment to tackling global health challenges.
As a resident at Michigan Medicine, Dr. Ladines-Lim has spearheaded several impactful projects, including antimicrobial stewardship in immigrant and refugee populations in Southeast Michigan, the use of ICD-10 codes to estimate rates of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in large datasets, and firearm safety screening and counseling in primary care. His dedication to research and improving patient care is evident in his work, and he will continue to make significant contributions to the field of Adult Infectious Diseases during his upcoming fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania.
When it comes to coaching and mentoring others, Dr. Ladines-Lim uses the "optimistic realist" approach. As a non-traditional himself, he is keen on picking out the hidden strengths of a student’s application. He helps each applicant reach their goals by providing expert training for the admission process.
Pharmacokinetics
Undergrad: Montclair State University
Medical School: Rutgers Medical School
Dr. Salcedo is a first-degree black belt in Goju-ryu.
Dr. Salcedo obtained his Bachelor’s in biology and chemistry from Montclair State University and his MD from Rutgers Medical School via the BS/MD program. He is trained in internal medicine, and his research areas include pulmonary rehabilitation in war veterans and hypotensive shock. He has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, including the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Critical Care Medicine, and Academic Medicine.
As a first-generation Hispanic American, Dr. Salcedo provides a specialized perspective on the medical school application process. He is passionate about accessibility and ensuring the admissions process is easy to navigate for every student he works with. He firmly believes in the power of hard work and determination and thoroughly enjoys helping students from all backgrounds craft application materials that tell their stories.
As a coach, Dr. Salcedo’s greatest strengths are helping students prepare for interviews, build confidence, improve their overall academic profiles, and write stellar personal statements. He has assisted dozens of students in creating strong and unique essays for medical and dental school. Dr. Salcedo feels that having a disability and having been a non-traditional student enables him to be in tune with the needs and perspectives of diverse applicants. He also enjoys helping students navigate interviews by organizing elevator pitches, baseline responses, approaches to interview questions, and conducting mock interviews.
Neuroscience
Undergrad: Yale University
Medical School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
In her free time, Hallie enjoys reading fiction, playing the viola, and hanging out with her very spoiled tuxedo cat, Barnaby.
Hallie is a member of the National Institutes of Health Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology from Yale University, where she served as Co-President of the Yale Medical Professions Outreach and Chief of Service for the Yale Emergency Medical Service.
Hallie’s admissions experience, including her role as the student lead for STEM recruitment at Yale, equips her with expert insights into the application process. She also supervised medical students in the Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience at Cambridge.
She has worked on a variety of research projects spanning astrophysics, computational genomics, cell biology, viral pathogenesis, regenerative biology, and neuroimmunology. Her research has resulted in 12 co-authored scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge.
As a counselor, Hallie excels in helping prospective applicants highlight their strengths and put their best foot forward in applications and interviews. She understands the anxiety that often accompanies the medical school application process and shares stress management and organizational techniques to ease this burden. Her background in highly selective admissions and tutoring allows her to approach the application process with empathy, enthusiasm, and a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes. Her approach helps prospective applicants highlight their strengths and navigate the application process with confidence.
Hallie's dedication to mentoring and her diverse experiences in research and education positions her as a knowledgeable coach for aspiring medical professionals. Her ability to connect with students and guide them through the complexities of the application process ensures they are well-prepared for their future careers in medicine.
OB/GYN
Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Medical School: Rutgers New Jersey Medical School
Dr. Ravikumar loves listening to Taylor Swift and going on long runs.
Prior to starting medical school, Dr. Ravikumar spent a gap year working on translational research at Weill Cornell, further solidifying her passion for medicine and research. Her research experience continued to grow during medical school, with several publications and presentations on topics in surgery. After medical school, she started her residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine.
Dr Ravikumar's commitment to mentoring and teaching is evident in her various roles. She has mentored several pre-med students, including those interested in pursuing the BS/MD programs, and has worked extensively with high school students interested in medicine through her school's Mini-Medical program. Additionally, she served as an academic coach for her peers, providing guidance and support in their academic pursuits.
As a member of the Student Interviewing Committee at NJMS, Dr. Ravikumar gained insider tips for the medical school application process. Her experience in this role, combined with her own journey through the TCNJ/NJMS 7-year BS/MD program, positions her well to guide aspiring medical students through the challenges of medical school admissions.
Dr. Ravikumar's approach to mentoring is characterized by her enthusiasm, empathy, and dedication to helping others achieve their goals. At Inspira, she aims to make the application process as seamless as possible, ensuring that each applicant's strengths are highlighted and that they feel confident in their individualized path to a career in medicine.
Microbiology
Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
In his free time, Dr. Menon enjoys studying history.
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.
Dermatology, Internal Medicine, Clinical Research, Community Outreach, Women And Children’s Health, Obgyn, Clinical Outcomes, and Skin Cancer
Undergrad: George Washington University
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
In her free time, Dr. Aizman enjoys exploring cities, trying out new restaurants, running, taking Peloton classes, and listening to audiobooks.
While in medical school, Dr. Aizman became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and a Health Services Scholarship Recipient. Before starting her residency, she honed her skills by completing a clinical research fellowship with the University of Pennsylvania's Dermatology Oncology Center. Additionally, she has presented her research findings at major national conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Drawing from her own experiences navigating the competitive world of medical education and residency applications, Dr. Aizman provides personalized guidance to help students achieve their goals. Her passion for empowering the next generation of medical professionals is evident in her volunteer work as an admissions counselor at the George Washington University School of Medicine, where she dedicated two years to assisting students through the interview process before serving as an interview coordinator at Johns Hopkins University.
Beyond her impressive academic and professional achievements, Dr. Aizman is known for her compassionate and personable nature. She understands the challenges and uncertainties that medical students face and goes above and beyond to provide the support and residency application guidance they need to succeed. Her genuine desire to help others and her extensive knowledge of the residency application process make her an exceptional mentor and role model for aspiring medical residents.
OB/GYN, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Global Health
Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
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!
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.
Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Peds, OB-GYN
Undergrad: University of North Carolina
Medical School: University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Dr. Mabe only enjoys stouts or porters (no IPAs here, please), TV series with more than one season, and long walks on Greensboro's greenways!
Dr. Mabe's impressive academic achievements and commitment to helping aspiring medical students are evident through his educational background and mentoring experiences. Growing up in the mountains of northwestern North Carolina, he attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he earned a BS in biology with a minor in chemistry, graduating summa cum laude and with membership in Phi Kappa Phi.
Having completed his medical education at the UNC School of Medicine as a FIRST Scholar in just three years, Dr. Mabe is familiar with the challenges and opportunities faced by aspiring medical students. His experiences as a peer tutor and teaching assistant further add to his ability to guide students through the admissions process and help them achieve their dreams of becoming physicians.
Dr. Mabe has worked with many premedical students in varying capacities on their journey to medical school. He founded the Pre-Student Osteopathic Medical Association at UNC Charlotte and mentored pre-medical students at UNC Chapel Hill as a medical student. These experiences allowed him to "share the wealth" when it comes to schedule advising, personal statement writing, and interview preparation.
As an admissions consultant, Dr. Mabe excels in early candidacy building for pre-med students, end-to-end admissions counseling, and interview preparation. Additionally, he is skilled at empathizing with students and providing tailored guidance based on their individual needs and goals.
Anesthesiology
Undergrad: Northeastern University
Medical School: University of Utah School of Medicine
Dr. Lanier loves scuba diving and has been hit on the head by a manta ray on two separate occasions.
Dr. Lanier’s academic journey began at Northeastern University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a dual degree in biology and international affairs. During her undergraduate studies, she developed a strong passion for global health, studying abroad in Argentina, Uruguay, and Ghana. She also pursued medicine-related co-ops in Uganda and Wales at Cardiff University, gaining valuable international experience. Her commitment to research is evident in her work at the Northeastern University Center for Drug Discovery and volunteer duties at Boston Children’s Hospital over the course of her undergraduate education
Dr. Lanier earned her MD from the University of Utah School of Medicine, where she continued to pursue her interests in global health while working as a mentor and tutor for pre-med and medical students. She served on the leadership team for the Student Global Health Initiative and completed a rotation abroad in Rwanda. Alongside her MD, Dr. Lanier graduated with a graduate certificate in global medicine.
Her unique perspective as a first-generation college graduate and medical student allows her to empathize with those of all backgrounds navigating the challenges of medical school admissions. She is committed to providing mentorship and assistance to future physicians in every aspect of their journeys.
Neurology
Undergrad: Rice University
Medical School: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
In her free time, Dr. Ravi likes to paint, enjoys exploring new restaurants and coffee shops with friends, and stays active with yoga, spin classes, and Bollywood dance.
Dr. Ravi completed her medical training at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine. Before her medical education, she earned an undergraduate degree in cognitive science from Rice University, where she gained a deep understanding of the rigors and demands of a pre-med curriculum at an elite institution. She held leadership roles in the Rice University Pre-Medical Society throughout her undergraduate career, with experience in hosting various sessions and workshops for pre-medical students and conducting mock interviews for applicants. Saisree also served as a senior interviewer on the admissions team at Rice.
In medical school, Dr. Ravi continued her interest in mentorship by being involved in the Big Sibling program, guiding incoming MS1 students through their first year of medical school, and also serving as a Research Liaison for students interested in neurology and neurosurgery. She has also published numerous publications in the fields of cancer nanotechnology, head and neck surgery, and interventional neurology and stroke.
What sets Dr. Ravi apart as a coach is her personalized approach to counseling. She takes the time to thoroughly understand each applicant's background and narrative, working closely with them to highlight their strengths and experiences. Drawing upon her extensive knowledge of the medical school and residency application processes, she provides expert guidance to help prospective candidates navigate the complex admissions landscape.
In addition to her formal mentorship roles, Dr. Ravi actively shares tips and advice with pre-med and medical students through her popular medical Instagram page. By leveraging social media, she extends her reach and impact, providing accessible and relatable guidance to a wider audience of aspiring healthcare professionals.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Undergrad: Georgetown University
Medical School: Emory School of Medicine
Dr. Hong enjoys rescuing and fostering kittens. She loves hosting game nights and gets very competitive over Codenames.
Dr. Hong’s years of mentoring experience have helped her understand how to help students create competitive profiles to maximize their acceptance chances. With a Bachelor's in international affairs from Georgetown University and five years of experience as a Science Program Analyst at the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Hong's journey to medicine was far from conventional. A chance encounter with a doctor sparked her interest in the field, leading her to complete a post-baccalaureate program while working full-time.
Her determination and hard work paid off, receiving multiple acceptances from medical schools across the country. She ultimately chose to attend Emory University School of Medicine. During medical school, Dr. Hong hosted multiple applicants who came for interviews. Throughout her four years of medical school, she also coordinated a free women's clinic for low-income individuals and was a peer mentor for the OB/GYNOB-GYN clerkship.
Dr. Hong recognizes the importance of having insider knowledge of the application process and is committed to sharing tips and common pitfalls with students to help them navigate the challenges of medical school and residency applications. She has mentored several medical students and pre-medical students applying for programs, helping them plan their schedules and strategize letters of recommendation.
Dr Hong’s approach to mentoring is centered on the art of storytelling. She believes that crafting a unique and compelling personal statement is key to standing out in the competitive world of medical school admissions. By working closely with students to identify their strengths, experiences, and passions, she helps them create narratives that highlight their individuality and potential as future physicians.
She understands the importance of creating realistic plans for a successful application cycle as someone who has successfully balanced school, work, and family while pursuing her medical education. She works with students to develop strategies that consider their circumstances, ensuring they are well-prepared and confident in their ability to succeed.
Dr. Hong’s counseling style is honest, sensitive, and objective. She draws from reliable resources to provide guidance on the competitiveness of applications and to identify areas for improvement. While she is encouraging and supportive, she is also transparent about weaknesses and works collaboratively with students to create solutions and remedy any shortcomings. She believes that no applicant is perfectly well-rounded, and encourages students to lean into their strengths to stand out in the admissions process.
Anesthesiology
Undergrad: University of Florida
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
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Originally from Miami, Florida, Dr. Esfandiary's academic journey began at the University of Florida, where she pursued a combination of economics and biology. Her exceptional academic performance and passion for research led to her acceptance into the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Summer Research Program. This opportunity allowed her to conduct research at one of the world's largest academic bioengineering labs, setting the foundation for her future in medical research.
Following her undergraduate studies, Dr. Esfandiary moved to Boston to continue her bioengineering research at MIT, further honing her skills and expanding her knowledge in this cutting-edge field. Her dedication to research and medicine then led her to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where she completed her medical degree.
Dr. Esfandiary brings with her a wealth of experience in both clinical medicine and research. Her diverse background, spanning economics, biology, bioengineering, and medicine, provides her with a special perspective on healthcare and medical research.
Dr. Esfandiary is passionate about mentoring students and helping them reach their full potential. Her experience navigating the path from undergraduate studies to medical school to residency equips her with valuable advice to share with aspiring medical professionals. She is excited to guide students through the challenges of medical school applications, research opportunities, and career planning in medicine.
Neurology
Undergrad: Touro College
Medical School: Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine
Outside of medicine, Dr. Kirsch enjoys spending time with family, exploring the outdoors through hiking, participating in sports, and indulging in the creative craft of candle-making.
Dr. Kirsch graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science, demonstrating his academic prowess from the outset. He was then admitted to his top-choice medical school, where he continued to excel. Dr. Kirsch scored in the 95th percentile on the USMLE and 99th percentile on the COMLEX exams and also achieved the highest scores on the Pediatrics and Family Medicine Shelf exams.
Following medical school, Dr. Kirsch was accepted into a highly competitive neurology residency program, which he had ranked first overall. His dedication and patient-centered approach were recognized with the Intern of the Year Award. Dr. Kirsch's commitment to education and patient care was further acknowledged with both the Medical Student Teaching Award and the Foley Award for Patient Advocacy and Professionalism.
Additionally, Dr. Kirsch completed an epilepsy fellowship at Case Western, and he was recognized with the Hans Lüders Epilepsy Award and the Pediatric Neurology Award. Now board-certified, Dr. Kirsch will be working in Missouri.
As a consultant, Dr. Kirsch's greatest strengths lie in his deep knowledge and experience in the medical field, his ability to break down complex concepts into understandable terms, and his talent for guiding students and physicians through each step of the application and training process.
Dr. Kirsch's approach to coaching is characterized by his dedication to understanding each student's needs and goals. He leverages his own experiences and successes to provide personalized guidance, whether it's preparing for exams, navigating the medical or residency application process, or developing impactful skills for a successful medical career.
With his exceptional academic background, clinical experience, and genuine passion for mentoring, Dr. Kirsch is well-positioned to guide aspiring and current medical professionals through the challenges of medical education and career development. His commitment to excellence and patient-centered care makes him an ideal mentor for those pursuing a career in medicine.
Urology
Undergrad: The University of Michigan
Medical School: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
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'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.
He 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 applications for half of all interviewed candidates, personally interviewing over 25 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 broad experience as a counselor, advising peers and students throughout medical school in both formal and informal settings, makes him an invaluable resource for aspiring medical students and residents.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Undergrad: California State University, San Marcos
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
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 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. Her dedication and hard work were evident in her ability to score in the 96th percentile on the MCAT while working three jobs and attending school full-time.
Dr. Munoz's academic prowess continued to grow at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, where she graduated after scoring above the 90th percentile on both USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. 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 10+ years of extensive mentoring and admissions experience have provided her with insider tips for the admissions process from the perspective of admissions committees she is excited to share with aspiring medical professionals.
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.
Transplant Surgery
Undergrad: University of California, Irvine
Medical School: University of California, Irvine
Graduate School: Northwestern University
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 has been awarded the Gold Humanism Honor Society Award and the Golden Scalpel – Resident Teacher of the Year Award, awards 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 received his undergraduate and medical education from UC Irvine and 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 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 8,662 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 medical and residency admissions and assisting applicants from various backgrounds in crafting compelling applications that showcase their qualities and experiences. His dedication to mentorship and his understanding of the challenges faced by applicants make him an invaluable asset to those pursuing a career in medicine.
Internal Medicine, Oncology, Hematology
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Graduate School: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Medical School: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
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 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 gone on to top medical schools. Dr. Warner is currently a Hematology/Oncology fellow at the National Institutes of Health.
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. Since then, Dr. Warner has authored 10+ peer-reviewed publications over her career.
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, Dr. Warner 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.
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. Her expertise extends to residency and internal medicine fellowship applications, making her a valuable mentor throughout a student's medical education journey.
Her passion for counseling stems from her own experiences applying to medical school and residency. 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.
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. A recent success story includes 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. Warner brings meticulous attention to detail, vast experience working with students, and insider knowledge of how medical school and residency admissions committees operate and review applicants. She is passionate about helping students achieve their educational and professional goals.
Internal Medicine
Undergrad: The College of New Jersey
Graduate School: Rutgers University
Medical School: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Dr. Patel enjoys spending time with family and friends, running, listening to podcasts, and cheering for Liverpool FC. He also has a black belt in karate.
Dr. Patel's academic journey began at the College of New Jersey, where he graduated from the honors program with a Bachelor's degree in biology and a minor in economics. Following his undergraduate studies, he dedicated a year to City Year, an AmeriCorps program, providing classroom and after-school support to 9th-grade students in Queens, NY. This experience deepened his commitment to education and community service.
Before entering medical school, Dr. Patel obtained a Master's degree in biomedical sciences at Rutgers University, further strengthening his scientific foundation. He then matriculated at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS), where he excelled academically and in community service. As a student doctor at the Promise Clinic, he provided care for uninsured patients in the local community, demonstrating his commitment to accessible healthcare.
Dr. Patel's passion for teaching and mentorship is evident in his diverse experiences. He has worked as an SAT and MCAT tutor and has coached inmates for the GED at a correctional facility. At Rutgers RWJMS, he helped coordinate the mentorship program between master’s biomedical sciences students and first-year medical students.
As a mentor, Dr. Patel has successfully guided numerous applicants through the medical school application process. He understands the challenges of the application process and excels at breaking it down into manageable steps. His approach focuses on helping applicants convey their motivations and highlight their individual achievements.
Internal Medicine/Pediatrics
Undergraduate: University of Maryland
Graduate: Yale School of Medicine
Residency: University of Michigan Medical School
Aside from reading Harry Potter to his infant son, Dr. Ladines-Lim enjoys fine dining, a good gin and tonic, running, and various podcasts.
Born in Baltimore, Dr. Ladines-Lim obtained his undergraduate degrees at the University of Maryland before pursuing a PhD in chemical engineering at MIT. His medical education at Yale School of Medicine further solidified his passion for medicine and his desire to make a global impact.
Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Ladines-Lim has been involved in various international projects. He worked for the Bertha Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Cape Town. During medical school, he 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, further showcasing his commitment to tackling global health challenges.
As a resident at Michigan Medicine, Dr. Ladines-Lim has spearheaded several impactful projects, including antimicrobial stewardship in immigrant and refugee populations in Southeast Michigan, the use of ICD-10 codes to estimate rates of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in large datasets, and firearm safety screening and counseling in primary care. His dedication to research and improving patient care is evident in his work, and he will continue to make significant contributions to the field of Adult Infectious Diseases during his upcoming fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania.
When it comes to coaching and mentoring others, Dr. Ladines-Lim uses the "optimistic realist" approach. As a non-traditional himself, he is keen on picking out the hidden strengths of a student’s application. He helps each applicant reach their goals by providing expert training for the admission process.
Microbiology
Undergrad: University of Chicago
Graduate: Harvard Medical School
Medical School: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
In his free time, Dr. Menon enjoys studying history.
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.
Dermatology, Internal Medicine, Clinical Research, Community Outreach, Women And Children’s Health, Obgyn, Clinical Outcomes, and Skin Cancer
Undergrad: George Washington University
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
In her free time, Dr. Aizman enjoys exploring cities, trying out new restaurants, running, taking Peloton classes, and listening to audiobooks.
While in medical school, Dr. Aizman became a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and a Health Services Scholarship Recipient. Before starting her residency, she honed her skills by completing a clinical research fellowship with the University of Pennsylvania's Dermatology Oncology Center. Additionally, she has presented her research findings at major national conferences, including the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Drawing from her own experiences navigating the competitive world of medical education and residency applications, Dr. Aizman provides personalized guidance to help students achieve their goals. Her passion for empowering the next generation of medical professionals is evident in her volunteer work as an admissions counselor at the George Washington University School of Medicine, where she dedicated two years to assisting students through the interview process before serving as an interview coordinator at Johns Hopkins University.
Beyond her impressive academic and professional achievements, Dr. Aizman is known for her compassionate and personable nature. She understands the challenges and uncertainties that medical students face and goes above and beyond to provide the support and residency application guidance they need to succeed. Her genuine desire to help others and her extensive knowledge of the residency application process make her an exceptional mentor and role model for aspiring medical residents.
OB/GYN, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Global Health
Undergrad: The University of Chicago
Graduate School: Columbia University
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
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!
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.
Neurology
Undergrad: Rice University
Medical School: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
In her free time, Dr. Ravi likes to paint, enjoys exploring new restaurants and coffee shops with friends, and stays active with yoga, spin classes, and Bollywood dance.
Dr. Ravi completed her medical training at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine. Before her medical education, she earned an undergraduate degree in cognitive science from Rice University, where she gained a deep understanding of the rigors and demands of a pre-med curriculum at an elite institution. She held leadership roles in the Rice University Pre-Medical Society throughout her undergraduate career, with experience in hosting various sessions and workshops for pre-medical students and conducting mock interviews for applicants. Saisree also served as a senior interviewer on the admissions team at Rice.
In medical school, Dr. Ravi continued her interest in mentorship by being involved in the Big Sibling program, guiding incoming MS1 students through their first year of medical school, and also serving as a Research Liaison for students interested in neurology and neurosurgery. She has also published numerous publications in the fields of cancer nanotechnology, head and neck surgery, and interventional neurology and stroke.
What sets Dr. Ravi apart as a coach is her personalized approach to counseling. She takes the time to thoroughly understand each applicant's background and narrative, working closely with them to highlight their strengths and experiences. Drawing upon her extensive knowledge of the medical school and residency application processes, she provides expert guidance to help prospective candidates navigate the complex admissions landscape.
In addition to her formal mentorship roles, Dr. Ravi actively shares tips and advice with pre-med and medical students through her popular medical Instagram page. By leveraging social media, she extends her reach and impact, providing accessible and relatable guidance to a wider audience of aspiring healthcare professionals.
Behavioral Medicine
Undergrad: Lafayette College
PA School: Marist College’s Physician Assistant Studies Program
Athena loves to travel and explore different cultures. Her goal is to visit every country. In her free time, she enjoys working out and spending time with her two puppies.
Athena’s journey began at Lafayette College, where she completed her undergraduate studies before advancing to the Physician Assistant Studies program at Marist College. During her time as a PA student, Athena not only excelled academically but also demonstrated strong leadership skills. She actively engaged with prospective students, conducting tours of the PA facilities and collaborating with her peers and faculty to influence admission decisions, demonstrating her dedication to the field and her commitment to helping others.
Athena's passion for medicine and care extends far beyond the boundaries of her professional life. She has dedicated her time and expertise to building medical infrastructure in Peru and participating in medical missions in Costa Rica during her school breaks. After graduating, Athena continued to give back to her community by volunteering on the admissions team of her PA program, where she helped conduct interviews and grade practical exams. Her exceptional contributions were recognized with an induction into the prestigious Alpha Phi Honors Society.
Throughout her professional journey, Athena has gained a diverse range of experiences that have enriched her understanding of various fields of medicine and the challenges faced by patients. She began her career at the renowned Yale Neonatal Intensive Care Unit before moving to the West Coast to practice orthopedics. Later, she returned to the East Coast to specialize in behavioral medicine. Today, she works as a Physician Assistant for the Center for Emotional Health.
As a counselor, Athena draws upon her extensive knowledge and experience to provide expert guidance to aspiring physician assistants. She understands the stress and pressure that comes with applying to PA school and offers her perspective on what admissions teams look for in future students. Athena takes a personalized approach, dedicating time to truly understanding each individual's aspirations and working diligently to help them achieve their PA goals.
Urgent Care Medicine
Undergrad: Wake Forest University
PA School: Campbell University
Jasmyn’s mom was a top Chinese ping-pong player before coming to the U.S.
Jasmyn's passion for guiding aspiring physician assistants stems from her own journey to becoming a PA. She grew up in New Jersey before relocating to North Carolina for her undergraduate education at Wake Forest University, where she majored in Health & Exercise Science with secondary studies in Chinese and dance. To gain healthcare experience, Jasmyn spent two years working as a CNA in orthopedics and oncology.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Jasmyn pursued her passion for the PA profession by enrolling in Campbell University's PA program. During her time there, she demonstrated her commitment to mentoring and supporting others by chartering the pre-PA club and providing guidance to pre-allied health students.
As a mentor, Jasmyn's greatest strength lies in her firsthand experience with the PA admissions process and her ability to share her knowledge and insights with her students. While serving on interview and admissions committees for PA schools, she has gained a deep understanding of the qualities and skills that top programs value in their applicants. This insider knowledge, combined with her clinical experience as a practicing PA at Duke University Health System, allows her to provide comprehensive guidance to aspiring PAs.
In addition to her role on admissions committees, Jasmyn also mentors new-graduate APPs at her workplace, further solidifying her commitment to supporting and guiding the next generation of physician assistants. She finds great fulfillment and energy in helping others achieve their dreams of becoming PAs and looks forward to working with each client on their special journey.
Neurosurgery
Undergrad: South Dakota State University
PA School: Bethel University, St. Paul
In her free time, Jewels loves to bake, read, travel, and try new flavors of coffee.
Before attending PA school, Jewels attended Dakota State University, where she spent three years as a human anatomy tutor and two years as an undergraduate research assistant before graduating with a degree in human biology. Jewels combines her passion for mentoring with a deep understanding of the PA application process. She breaks down complex concepts and provides expert guidance to help students overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
At the core of Jewels' mentoring philosophy is a genuine desire to empower the next generation of physician assistants. She recognizes that the journey to becoming a PA can be challenging, and she is committed to breaking down complex concepts into manageable, bite-sized pieces. By making even the most difficult topics accessible and engaging, Jewels helps her students build a strong foundation of knowledge and confidence.
One of Jewels' greatest strengths as a mentor is her ability to listen and forge meaningful connections with students. She understands the struggles, fears, and aspirations that come with pursuing a career in healthcare, and she approaches each student with empathy and compassion. Through her expert guidance and support, Jewels helps students overcome obstacles, face their fears, and pursue their dreams.
Jewels' wealth of knowledge and expertise, gained from both her professional career as a neurosurgery physician assistant and her academic experiences, makes her an invaluable source of knowledge for aspiring PAs. She is dedicated to mentoring PA students, and she tailors her approach to meet the needs and goals of each individual.
Public Health, Clinical Education
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Graduate School: Emory Rollins School of Public Health
PA School: Emory University Physician Assistant Program
Taylor enjoys making whole-grain bread and vegetable broth from scratch in her free time!
Taylor's educational journey began at the University of Georgia, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in education in athletic training. After graduation, she gained valuable experience as a certified athletic trainer and faculty member for a sports physical therapy and athletic training residency program.
Building on this foundation, Taylor pursued a dual Master's degree at Emory University, graduating with the Highest Honors from both the physician assistant program and the Rollins School of Public Health. Her outstanding achievements led to her induction into honorary societies at both schools—Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health at Rollins, and Pi Alpha National Honor Society for Physician Assistants through her PA program.
In her current role at Emory Healthcare, Taylor is the sole advanced practice provider in transplant infectious diseases, managing a complex inpatient consultation service. This position allows her to apply her expertise in infectious disease and transplant medicine while working with a diverse range of patients and healthcare professionals.
Taylor's passion extends beyond clinical practice to education and mentorship. As an appointed clinical education faculty member of the Emory University PA program, she focuses on improving learners' clinical experiences, deepening clinician longevity in mentorship and preceptorship, and advocating for APPs' joint pursuit of clinical and non-clinical roles. This commitment reflects her holistic approach to healthcare and her desire to expand the impact of PAs in various sectors of the medical field.
Her educational approach emphasizes student mentorship, interprofessional education, collaborative practice, and effective knowledge acquisition and assessment for adult learners. Taylor regularly precepts and mentors PA students, providing helpful tips for the admissions process and the qualities sought by top programs.
Taylor is committed to guiding prospective students through the complex application process, offering quality mentorship that helps each student leverage their personality and experiences. Her firsthand knowledge of the PA profession and academic path enables her to set students up for success.
Pharmacology
Undergrad: University of Winnipeg
Graduate School: University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Shaleen loves to travel and is always keen to learn about new cultures through their food. She is an avid CrossFit enthusiast and a dedicated baseball and volleyball mom.
As a pharmacology professor, Shaleen leverages her wealth of expertise to mentor future healthcare professionals. She holds a PhD in microbiology and immunology from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University. She serves as the Pharmacology Course Director for physician assistants, teaching infectious disease pharmacology to students across various disciplines.
Shaleen’s contributions to the field extend beyond teaching and mentoring. She has presented her research at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical knowledge. Her dual focus on research and education ensures that students receive a comprehensive and informed perspective on the healthcare field.
Shaleen’s passion for mentoring is rooted in her extensive experience on Midwestern University’s medical and PA admissions committees. Her extensive involvement provides her with expert insights into what makes a successful applicant, helping students navigate the complexities of medical and physician assistant applications.
As a mentor, Shaleen excels in sharing her knowledge and experiences with aspiring healthcare professionals. Her guidance helps students build confidence and develop strong applications and interview skills. She is motivated by students' "light bulb" moments and supports each one on their individual educational journey. She actively involves students in her research laboratory, focusing on cancer cell metabolomics and mechanisms of microbial latency. Many students have successfully continued to medical school, benefiting from her expertise and support.
Through her mentorship and teaching, Shaleen empowers aspiring medical and healthcare professionals to achieve their goals. Her extensive experience in admissions and education, combined with her active research involvement, makes her a great mentor for students navigating the path to a successful career in healthcare.
Emergency Medicine
Undergrad: University of Utah
PA School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Graduate School: Butler University
Amanda is a huge fan of reptiles and she would love to do educational programs on them for children one day. Currently, she has a hognose snake named Olfactory (Ollie for short) and an Argentine tegu named Tango.
Amanda has a Bachelor of Science in speech and hearing science from the University of Utah. Prior to PA school, Amanda gained extensive experience in emergency medical services and EMS education, laying a strong foundation for her future in emergency medicine. Her clinical experience spans various specialties, including occupational medicine/urgent care, rural medicine, outpatient cardiology, inpatient pediatric psychiatry, and COVID-19 clinical research.
After graduating from Tufts University School of Medicine’s PA program, Amanda pursued a Doctorate of Medical Science at Butler University. Her ultimate career goal is to become a PA educator, where she can share her knowledge and experience with the next generation of medical professionals. She exhibits a strong commitment to medical education and excellence in patient care, establishing a positive learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and continuous growth in the medical field.
Amanda's passion for counseling stems from her love of PA education and her desire to help future PAs succeed. Her doctorate in PA education has equipped her with a deep understanding of the field, and she is committed to being actively involved in its evolution. What sets Amanda apart as a consultant is her holistic approach to the pre-PA experience. She not only helps students with their applications and interviews but also provides emotional support during this challenging time.
Amanda's approach to counseling is laid-back and flexible. She encourages students to reach out to her whenever they need guidance, whether it's for a mock interview, application review, or simply to ask a question. Amanda's goal is to empower students to create exceptional applications and demonstrate their strengths, not to do the work for them. By working together, she helps students achieve their goals and become successful PAs.
Amanda's greatest strength as a consultant is her ability to help applicants recognize and highlight their individual strengths. She believes that every applicant has something valuable to offer, regardless of their background or grades. By focusing on these strengths, Amanda empowers students to create exceptional applications and excel in interviews.
With over two years of experience in mentoring and consulting, Amanda has helped students who might be considered "lower quality" applicants secure admission to PA school. Her experience as a statistics TA and tutor has also given her a comprehensive understanding of how to break down complex concepts and make them accessible to students.
Neuro, ICU, General Surgery, Women's Health
Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
PA School: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Rachel is a thrill-seeker who loves rollercoasters and playing board, card, and video games. She is a proud cat mom who enjoys teaching her cat tricks and tending to her houseplants. Recently, she started traveling internationally and is always excited about her next adventure!
Rachel's educational journey began with an associate degree in surgical technology and sterile processing, which sparked her interest in the physician assistant career. She went on to earn her Bachelor's degree from Grand Valley State University while working full-time as a surgical technologist. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Physician Associate Program, where she distinguished herself as a leader and scholar.
During her time as a PA student, Rachel held several notable positions, including class secretary and member of the A. William Horsley Physician Assistant Student Society. The PA program faculty also selected her to sit on the education committee. Additionally, she was awarded the Thomas R. Godkins scholarship for academic excellence and volunteerism, as well as the Student Health Policy Fellowship by the Physician Assistant Education Association.
With her vast experience in the CASPA application process and timeline, personal statement review, and overall preparation for PA school and beyond, Rachel is uniquely qualified to help students navigate the challenging path to becoming a physician assistant. Additionally, her admissions experience interviewing and ranking prospective PA students gives her inside information into what admissions committees are looking for in successful candidates.
As a coach, Rachel's greatest strength is her extensive experience guiding dozens of pre-PA applicants through the complex application process. She has a large following of pre-PA students who have shadowed her and benefited from her support. As a registered mentor for PA students for the National Society of Black Physician Assistants, Rachel is dedicated to helping aspiring PAs from diverse backgrounds achieve their goals. She also enjoys precepting PA students and lecturing, sharing her knowledge and expertise with the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Colon Cancer Awareness, Plastic Surgery
Undergrad: Georgia Gwinnett College
PA School: Morehouse School of Medicine
Thelisha loves to spend quality time with her three children, family, and friends by traveling, shopping, and creating memories.
Thelisha earned her bachelor's degree in biology from Georgia Gwinnett College before attending the Morehouse School of Medicine, where she graduated with honors. As a member of the inaugural cohort, she had the esteemed privilege of serving on the Morehouse admissions committee, mentoring PA students, interviewing applicants, and evaluating their applications. At Morehouse, she also participated in several community awareness events and served as a mentor for current PA students facing academic challenges.
Thelisha is currently practicing gastroenterology and hepatology at Wellstar Health System, a major health system in Atlanta. In her role, she trains new Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) and collaborates with leadership to implement new policies. She also continues to mentor pre-PA students and current PA students, precepting them and providing them with shadowing opportunities.
Thelisha is committed to being a valuable resource for students as they navigate this complex process. She aims to provide effective strategies, assist in gaining relevant healthcare experience, and emphasize students’ talents and strengths in their applications. Her mentoring philosophy centers on open communication; she engages with students to understand their experiences, personalities, and goals, in order to tailor personalized plans for success.
As a coach, Thelisha’s greatest strength lies in her personal experience overcoming challenges, which she draws upon to provide valuable insight and strategies to strengthen student candidacy. As a double minority and first-generation medical professional, she is dedicated to helping students succeed in pursuing their dreams of becoming a PA, offering unwavering support regardless of the challenges they may encounter in navigating the process.
Dermatology, Urgent Care
Undergrad: Florida State University
PA School: South College Physician Assistant Program
Kylie enjoys traveling, outdoor activities, working out, and spending time with friends and family. She shares her life with her boyfriend and their Cavapoo, Brooks, named after Brookhaven, GA, the town where they met. Water skiing is one of Kylie’s favorite hobbies.
Kylie's academic journey led her to Florida State University, where she majored in family and child sciences with a minor in biology and chemistry. Before PA school, Kylie gained valuable healthcare experience working as a medical assistant in dermatology, further solidifying her commitment to patient care.
Kylie pursued PA studies at South College. Her commitment to the program and her peers led to her selection as one of five students to represent South College at the Annual Curriculum Review for two consecutive years. This panel reviewed and evaluated the program's curriculum to determine its quality and effectiveness, providing Kylie with valuable insights into PA education and program development. Kylie also dedicated her free time to mentoring pre-PA students from her sorority, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help guide them on their path to becoming physician assistants.
As a PA admissions specialist, Kylie brings a deep understanding of the skills and qualities highly valued by admissions committees. Her experience in facilitating interviews at her PA program has given her expert insights into the admissions process, which she now uses to help students make their applications shine.
Kylie's approach to admissions consulting is characterized by her hardworking nature, dedication, and genuine excitement to work with each student. She is eager to help students achieve their dreams of becoming physician assistants, leveraging her experiences and insights to ensure each applicant's strengths and potential are effectively communicated throughout the application process.
Pediatrics
Undergrad: University of Virginia
PA School: University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus
Quinn lives in Denver, Colorado, and loves spending time outdoors in her free time—she is an avid hiker, tennis player, and skier. She also has an insatiable sweet tooth and is always baking for family and friends.
Quinn's dedication and hard work paid off when she was accepted into her dream school: the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, where she pursued her physician assistant studies. Her own success has fueled her passion for guiding others on their journeys.
Quinn's passion for admissions counseling stems from the help she received from prior applicants during her own application cycle. She understands the challenges and uncertainties that come with navigating the admissions process and is committed to providing the same level of support and guidance to all students.
One of Quinn's greatest strengths as an admissions counselor is her approachability and ability to connect with students on a personal level. She prides herself on identifying each student’s strengths and helping them highlight them throughout the application process. Quinn's positive attitude is contagious, and one of her main goals is to boost every student’s confidence, ensuring they feel empowered and supported every step of the way.
Quinn excels in assisting with interview preparation, providing students with the tools and strategies they need to present their best selves during the application. She also offers prompt and detailed essay edits and feedback, ensuring that each student’s personal statement and other written materials effectively communicate their stories and aspirations.
Quinn cannot wait to guide students toward achieving their dreams, just as she achieved her own. Her passion for admissions counseling and her dedication to student success make her an exceptional mentor and a trusted guide on the path to a rewarding career in the medical field.
Critical Care, Emergency Medicine
Undergrad: University of Missouri-Kansas City
PA School: Saint Louis University Physician Assistant Program
Stephen enjoys running, hiking, camping, and most outdoor activities. He often shares these adventures with his wife, two-year-old daughter, and their golden retriever.
Before becoming a PA, Stephen worked as a paramedic and Flight Paramedic (FP-C) for six years, gaining valuable experience in emergency medicine and patient care. Throughout his career, he has served as an Adjunct and Lead instructor for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic programs and has taught Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) courses to a wide range of students, from laypeople to physicians.
Currently, Stephen works in the intensive care unit at BJC-Missouri Baptist Medical Center in Saint Louis, Missouri. His primary responsibilities include responding to rapid responses and Code Blues, assessing and treating critically ill patients, and performing various vascular access procedures such as peripheral IV, temporary dialysis catheter, central venous catheter, and arterial line placement. As a PA, he continues to share his knowledge by giving multiple lectures to SLU PA students on topics in pulmonology and endocrinology.
As a coach, Stephen's greatest strength is his extensive experience in education and his dedication to helping students succeed. Stephen's passion for the PA profession and his commitment to assisting students in navigating the complex application process make his guidance invaluable for aspiring PAs. He takes a personalized approach to every student’s needs and is well-equipped to guide students through every step of their journey toward becoming a PA.
Internal Medicine
Undergrad: University of South Florida
PA School: University of South Florida Physician Assistant Program
Savannah has been skydiving twice. She also used to model part-time for an agency in Orlando and was published in Salysé Magazine.
As a patient care technician at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Savannah received the Technician of Excellence award for her exceptional work with renal, diabetic, and wound care patients. This experience, combined with her academic achievements, laid a strong foundation for her PA career.
Savannah's experience navigating through applications, PA school, and now her PA career provides her with a comprehensive understanding of the entire journey to becoming a PA. Her success in curating a strong application resulted in multiple offers from different programs and ultimately an acceptance into her first-choice program. This firsthand experience uniquely positions her to guide aspiring PAs through every step of their journey.
Savannah has been actively mentoring pre-PA students for over two years, helping them prepare for the application process and PA school life. She provides insider tips on strengthening applications and offers guidance on steps to take during undergraduate studies. As a mentor, she assists prospective PA students in navigating the CASPA application, secondary applications, and interview preparation.
She excels in providing writing assistance for personal statements and essay prompts for both primary and secondary applications. Her interview preparation style includes providing resources, prompts, and conducting mock interviews with detailed feedback. She strives to make students feel comfortable and confident while challenging them to ensure they are thoroughly prepared.
Savannah is excited to work with aspiring PA students, help them navigate the application process, build competitive applications, and ultimately achieve their goal of becoming certified physician assistants. Her approach is characterized by empathy, practical advice, and a genuine desire to see the success of each student. She finds great reward in watching students begin their journey toward a fulfilling PA career.
Internal Medicine, Urgent Care, Outpatient, Surgery
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
PA School: Carroll University Physician Assistant Program
Eva loves to travel—most recently, to Australia and New Zealand for the Women's World Cup. She loves to cook and bake and has a Bernedoodle, who she jokingly refers to as the “self-proclaimed princess” of the house.
Following a gap year to gain experience, Eva pursued her PA studies at Carroll University. Upon graduation, Eva initially worked in internal medicine before transitioning to an urgent care setting, where she provided hands-on care with enthusiasm. Her primary passion lies in assisting physician assistant candidates in achieving their dreams, breaking down daunting tasks into manageable pieces, and helping applicants refine their applications.
With years of formal consulting and mentoring experience, Eva has developed a unique approach to counseling. She prides herself on her ability to fully individualize her expertise for each student, adapting her style based on their needs—whether they require motivation and deadlines or a more laid-back approach. Her flexible schedule allows her to work at times that best suit each student’s needs.
Eva's greatest strengths as a consultant include her ability to connect deeply with people and her meticulous attention to detail. She excels at making students comfortable sharing their experiences and stories, which she considers vital in creating strong applications. Her comprehensive knowledge of the medical field, combined with her energetic and enthusiastic approach, allows her to offer effective and tailored advice.
Particularly passionate about crafting standout personal statements, Eva helps applicants highlight their strengths and experiences. She enjoys getting to know candidates personally and assisting them in applying to their dream schools. Eva's experience with the PA application process, coupled with her commitment to staying informed about the latest changes, enables her to provide up-to-date and relevant guidance to students.
Family Medicine, Ophthalmology, Dermatology
Undergrad: University of California Irvine
PA School: University of Southern California Physician Assistant Program
Cindy enjoys traveling and staying home with her tuxedo cat named Stormy. Her hobbies include finding new travel destinations, going to the gym to stay healthy, and painting to relax and destress.
Cindy's journey in healthcare began at the University of California, Irvine, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, consistently appearing on the Dean's Honor Roll list. Her commitment to global health was demonstrated through her involvement in a non-profit medical organization that supported healthcare initiatives in Vietnam.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Cindy's dedication to global health was evident through her involvement in a non-profit medical organization. This organization fundraised for heart surgeries, health clinics, and orphanages in Vietnam. Cindy personally participated in a mission trip to Vietnam, further solidifying her commitment to international healthcare.
Following graduation, Cindy gained clinical experience across various medical specialties, including ophthalmology, pulmonology, general dentistry, and pain management. This diverse exposure not only helped her accrue the necessary hours for PA school applications but also provided her with a comprehensive understanding of different areas of medicine.
Cindy's exceptional qualifications and dedication to healthcare were recognized during her PA school application cycle, where she received over ten interview invites. Ultimately, she chose to attend the USC, aligning with her passion for serving underserved communities both locally and abroad.
Cindy's experience as on the interview panel for USC's PA program admissions cycle provides her with an expert perspective. This insider knowledge allows her to offer students a comprehensive understanding of the admissions process from both sides of the table. As a coach, Cindy leverages this experience to provide authentic insights into what admissions committees look for in candidates during interviews. She offers tailored advice on how to effectively present oneself and guides applicants on demonstrating their qualities in a way that resonates with interviewers.
She has been actively mentoring aspiring PA students for over four years. Her mentorship covers a wide range of areas, including completing prerequisite courses, program selection, personal statement editing, and providing vital mental support throughout the rigorous application process.
Cindy's approach to admissions coaching is deeply personal and supportive. She believes in getting to know each student individually, allowing her to help them showcase their personalities and experiences in their applications. Her empathetic nature and understanding of the application process stress make her an incredible support system for students, offering guidance on both mental health and application strategies.
Her greatest strength as a consultant lies in her exceptional organizational skills and ability to keep students on track with their goals. She creates personalized timelines and reminders to ensure all application components are completed by the desired deadlines. Her approach fosters a comfortable connection with each student, allowing for effective communication and addressing all questions and concerns promptly.
Spinal, General, and Plastic Surgery
Undergrad: University of Miami
PA School: Weill Cornell School of Medical Sciences Physician Assistant Program
Lynley is a huge foodie and loves trying new restaurants around New York City. Although she loves an NYC slice, Lynley grew up in Chicago, so deep-dish pizza is her favorite! Lynley has also been an athlete all of her life and now loves to attend new workout classes.
Lynley's academic journey began with a major in communications at the University of Miami, where she developed valuable writing skills. However, her passion for nutrition and wellness led her to switch majors to exercise physiology and minor in advertising and public relations. Her fascination with physiology coursework inspired her to pursue a healthcare career.
After shadowing numerous medical professionals, Lynley discovered the physician assistant profession and knew it was the perfect fit for her. Before attending PA school, she gained extensive experience as an orthopedic patient care technician at NorthShore University Health System and worked on the COVID-19 units throughout the pandemic. Additionally, she worked as a plastic surgery medical assistant at the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, where she developed a love for surgery. At Mount Sinai Health System, Lynley applies her knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional patient care.
Lynley’s passion for counseling stems from her own experience of feeling that there weren't enough resources available when she applied to PA school. She is dedicated to providing applicants with the guidance and resources she wishes she had.
What sets Lynley apart as a consultant is her background in communications, which gives her confidence in her writing and editing skills for student essays—her ability to craft compelling narratives is a key asset for applicants. Another of her greatest strengths is her familiarity with and proficiency in helping applicants prepare for various interview styles. She uses these skills and personal experiences to help students write masterful essays, ace their interviews, and get accepted to their top PA programs.
In her counseling sessions, Lynley reviews any questions or updates from the prior meeting, sets a goal for the session, and plans for the next steps. Her structured approach ensures that students remain focused and make steady progress toward their application goals, ultimately leading to PA school success.
Cardiothoracic Surgery, Oncology
Undergrad: Indiana University
PA School: Touro University
Sierra loves to cook and hates to follow recipes. Sierra also has a puppy named Barkley, a Border Collie/Pyrenees mix, who she received while in her second semester of PA school.
Sierra’s PA journey began at Indiana University where she discovered her passion for becoming a physician assistant. Sierra's greatest strengths as a consultant are her organization and compassion. Her exceptional organizational skills demonstrated throughout the PA school application process and current studies, help both her and her students stay on track. Recognizing that PA school applications are time-consuming and complex, Sierra ensures each student remains organized—a skill invaluable in PA school and beyond.
Throughout her academic career, Sierra has consistently shown a commitment to helping others. During her undergraduate years, she worked as a tutor, assisting fellow students in various subjects. This experience, coupled with her recent support of peers navigating the PA school application process, has further developed her mentoring skills and reinforced her desire to guide others toward their goals.
Sierra has mastered the art of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, successfully juggling the demands of PA school with her personal life. She is passionate about helping other students achieve this balance, recognizing its importance for long-term success and well-being in the healthcare field.
She has learned the ins and outs of strengthening applications holistically to stand out to admissions committees. Sierra's enthusiasm for mentoring, coupled with her firsthand experience of the PA school application process, positions her as a relatable and knowledgeable guide for aspiring PAs. She is excited to share her strategies for success, from application tips to maintaining balance in PA school and helping others turn their dreams of a career in healthcare into reality.
Cardio-Thoracic Surgery or ICU, Surgery, Management
Undergrad: Northeastern University
PA School: Yale School of Medicine Physician Associate Program
Nicholas loves exploring the outdoors and traveling. He is an avid sports fan and is a black belt in Taekwondo.
Nicholas earned his BS in Biology from Northeastern University and is a recent graduate from Yale University’s Physician Associate Program, with a particular interest in cardiac surgery and cardiovascular intensive care.
During his undergraduate studies, Nicholas worked in numerous medical settings, such as Harvard Medical School, where he conducted neuroscience research, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where he participated in clinical research in circadian rhythm studies. He also studied abroad in Thessaloniki, Greece, working in a medically underserved rehabilitation facility. His role as a Biology Ambassador provided him with a wealth of experience in mentoring students aspiring for a career in medicine, guiding them toward pre-physician assistant and pre-medical studies.
After graduating from Northeastern, Nicholas worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at White Plains Hospital in the medical-surgical unit. Throughout his time at Yale, he gained unique experience and extensive knowledge in a variety of clinical settings. Nicholas was also a recipient of the Connecticut PA Foundation Scholarship for his commitment to the PA profession and is affiliated with the Aortic Institute at Yale New Haven Hospital. His contribution to cardiovascular medicine includes an Honors Thesis titled “Lipid Profiles in Patients with Descending Aortic Aneurysms” and two research articles.
Nicholas is dedicated to helping individuals become competitive candidates and successful future PAs. He excels in breaking down the application process into manageable steps and maintaining organization. Above all, Nicholas is driven to assist applicants in reaching their goals.
Urology and Urgent Care
Undergrad: Franklin Pierce University
PA School: Marietta College
In Andrea's free time, she wishes she could have raised a cat that would hike through the beautiful span of Appalachia with her but has to settle with at-home cat cuddles at the end of long camping weekends.
Before PA school, Andrea graduated summa cum laude with a BA in biology from Franklin Pierce University while playing college ice hockey. During her gap year, she was the Hiring Manager for ScribeAmerica for seven varying medical specialties and managed and mentored 45 employees, most of whom were pre-med or pre-PA. As a pediatric neurosurgery PA transitioning to urology PA, she held several leadership roles in surgical safety research and child advocacy.
Andrea graduated as valedictorian from the Marietta College Physician Assistant program. During her time there, she was a member of the student government and presented Grand Rounds at various clinical rotations. She was also responsible for interviewing and providing tours to applicants.
As a coach, Andrea is a firm believer that personal statements are the heart of an application. She is a creative writer in her free time and has seen firsthand how personal statements are the heart of an application when there are thousands of applications to review. She prides herself on her ability to help students craft excellent personal statements to make their applications stand out amongst the crowd. She also excels at helping students develop and strengthen their interview skills to ensure they make a lasting impression on their interviewers.
Primary Care, OBGYN
Undergrad: University of West Georgia
PA School: Christian Brothers University Physician Assistant Studies Program
Christina enjoys binge-watching TV shows. She likes to travel to different states and try new food. She watches a lot of TikTok and finds funny memes relatable to her PA journey. She is quite talkative and will always enjoy a good conversation on just about anything.
Christina began her PA journey at the University of West Georgia, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in biology/biological sciences. Shortly after, she matriculated to the Christian Brothers University PA program, building on the foundation she laid in undergrad.
Her involvement in the admissions process extended to engaging in open dialogues with candidates, providing them with background knowledge about the program, and inquiring about their motivations for pursuing a PA career. This experience further improved her understanding of the admissions process from an institutional perspective.
Christina’s passion for counseling stems from her own experience applying to PA school, where she found that the answers she was looking for were nowhere to be found. This experience has driven her to provide the support and guidance she once sought to other aspiring PAs.
As a consultant, Christina brings a combination of compassion and eagerness to her work. She treats every student’s application as if it were her own, ensuring they receive personalized attention and support. Her greatest strength as a consultant is her experience as an admissions committee participant, which provides her with insider knowledge of what schools and interviewers look for in prospective students.
Christina's mentoring style is characterized by her outgoing personality, energy, and encouraging attitude. She understands that the application process can be stressful and is always willing to discuss the daily worries and challenges that come with applying to PA school. In her counseling sessions, Christina approaches each student with a gentle icebreaker, followed by a discussion of the schedule and goals for their next meeting. She emphasizes practical advice combined with emotional support, ensuring that students feel supported and confident throughout the entire application process.
Pain Management, Administration
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
PA School: Stony Brook University Physician Assistant Program
Gianna is proud to be a twin!
Gianna grew up in Buffalo, New York, and attended the University of Pittsburgh for her undergraduate education. She initially studied biology undeclared before declaring a major in rehabilitation science with an emphasis on PA school-relevant coursework such as anatomy with a full cadaver lab, physiology with a lab, and pharmacology.
During her time at the University of Pittsburgh, she completed a certificate in the Conceptual Foundations of Medicine with related areas in biology and chemistry. Her academic achievements were recognized through multiple honorary memberships and awards at the exclusive University of Pittsburgh Honors Convocation for her distinguished academic performance and leadership experience.
Gianna's healthcare experience is diverse and extensive. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and home health aide, gaining hands-on experience in patient care. Additionally, she conducted her own field experience internship at UPMC and volunteered as a clinical research assistant, MDA camp counselor, and twice-weekly hospital volunteer at the UPMC HELP Program. Her major GPA of 3.98 further highlights her academic excellence.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Gianna applied to several PA programs and was offered interviews at the majority of them. She accepted an offer at Stony Brook University, finishing her education in 24 months with a 3.87 GPA. The majority of her clinical rotation experience was through the New York City Health and Hospital system, with a portion completed in Buffalo, New York.
Gianna is currently considering furthering her education with a Doctorate of Physician Assistant Studies degree. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, baking, playing with her dog, and working on her art career. Her passion for art is evident in her disciplined ballet dancing background and her previous role as a ballet teacher prior to starting PA school.
As a mentor, Gianna brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help aspiring physician assistants navigate the application process. Her timeliness, organizational skills, and step-by-step approach provide a solid foundation for each student’s experiences. However, it is her confidence in each student that goes the furthest. Gianna is excited to be part of each student’s journey through their admissions process, ensuring they present their best selves and achieve their dreams of becoming fellow physician assistants.
Small Animal Medicine and Surgery
Undergrad: University of Missouri
Veterinary School: University of Missouri Veterinary School
Dr. Garcia's personal interests include cats, plants, exercise, and travel. She also enjoys the ongoing challenge of preventing her cats from eating her plants.
Dr. Garcia’s journey began at a young age when she declared her aspiration to become a veterinarian to her first-grade class. She pursued her dream at the University of Missouri, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences with a minor in Captive Wild Animal Management. Demonstrating her deep commitment to her alma mater, she continued her education at the University of Missouri Veterinary School, where she honed her skills and knowledge in veterinary medicine.
Throughout her career, Dr. Garcia has gained extensive experience in various veterinary settings, including walk-in practices, small animal practices, and shelter medicine. As the medical director for a non-profit shelter, she specializes in wellness and prevention, high-volume spay and neuter surgery, and animal welfare. One of her greatest strengths is her approachability and transparency. She also has a knack for writing and precision.
Dr. Garcia's approach to veterinary medicine is characterized by her love for continuous learning, commitment to teaching others, and ability to find joy in her work. She has helped students get accepted into vet school long before her own vet school journey. Whether it's giving advice, words of encouragement, editing essays, or writing letters of recommendation, she’s guided numerous students to admission to their top programs.
As an admissions coach, she draws upon her extensive hands-on experience and passion for the field to guide prospective veterinarians in their educational journey, helping them navigate the challenges and opportunities of pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. What sets her apart as a consultant is that she embraces each student’s identity apart from being a "vet school hopeful." She is adept at getting to know each student and making their application shine.
Lab Animal Medicine, Oncology, Small Animal, Emergency, General Practice
Undergrad: CUNY Hunter College
Veterinary School: Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Outside of work, Dr. Pires enjoys spending her time Latin dancing, traveling, hiking, painting, cosplaying, gaming, and snuggling with her pets.
Dr. Pires' graduated from CUNY Hunter College with degrees in studio art and biochemistry. Through these studies, she discovered her passion for pre-veterinary medicine, which was further fueled by her experiences in research, lab animal care, and small animal general practice. These experiences sparked her enthusiasm for advancing biomedical research to benefit both human and animal health, as well as advocating for the well-being of animals that are vital for medical progress.
Dr. Pires enrolled in a combined DVM and PhD program at Colorado State University. Her PhD focused on cell and molecular biology with an emphasis on cancer research. Dr. Pires graduated from veterinary school, receiving the Bob Rosenthal Senior Student Award for her outstanding contributions to clinical oncology. Her dual DVM/PhD training has equipped her with a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of human and animal health, as well as the critical role that veterinarians play in advancing biomedical research.
After completing her veterinary education, Dr. Pires pursued a one-year clinical fellowship in lab animal medicine, further honing her skills and expertise in this specialized field. Currently, she works as a lab animal veterinarian in the pharmaceutical industry, where she applies her knowledge to ensure the welfare of animals involved in research while contributing to the development of life-saving treatments.
As a coach, Dr. Pires is passionate about helping students navigate the complex admissions process and has a proven track record of guiding them toward achieving their goals. Her experience serving on the Colorado State University’s admissions committee for five years gives her insider information into the qualities and characteristics that successful veterinary school applicants possess.
As a first-generation college graduate and native New Yorker of mixed Hispanic and European heritage, Dr. Pires brings a deep understanding of the challenges that students from diverse backgrounds may face when pursuing higher education. She is committed to working with students of all backgrounds, providing them with the guidance, support, and resources they need to succeed in their journey to veterinary school and beyond.
Reproductive Services, Preventative Health
Undergrad: The University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: The University of Minnesota
Dr. Cangemi leads an active lifestyle as an equestrian, riding dressage since her college days and continuing today with her horse, Taillights. At home, she enjoys the company of her dogs, Rosie and Bonnie, and pursues her passion for baking, aspiring to reach "Great British Bake Off" levels of skill. She is also writing her debut novel, driven by her love for storytelling and dedication to mentoring aspiring veterinary professionals.
Dr. Cangemi earned a bachelor's degree in animal science with honors from UC Davis, followed by a DVM from the University of Minnesota. During vet school, she distinguished herself as a board member of the student chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). She also gained valuable experience working at a small animal in-home clinic and as an overnight technician at the University of Minnesota while actively contributing to the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA).
After graduating, Dr. Cangemi pursued a specialty internship focused on equine medicine, eventually joining the practice as an associate veterinarian. Her dedication to integrative veterinary care led her to become certified in veterinary acupuncture in 2022, complementing her expertise in equine reproductive services. Beyond her clinical practice, she also served on the University of Minnesota's interview panel and excels as the internship coordinator at her current practice.
Dr. Cangemi is deeply passionate about guiding young veterinarians and students, believing in the importance of nurturing their professional and personal growth within the veterinary community. Her coaching skills include helping students unlock their strengths during interviews, crafting clear and compelling personal statements, and navigating professional situations with confidence.
As a coach, Dr. Cangemi excels at identifying students’ strengths and drawing out what makes them truly unique. She believes the best interviews are those where the applicant's passion and excitement shine through, and she loves bringing that joy out in students. While the application process can be stressful, she ensures there is also an element of joy and fun, helping students approach it with confidence and enthusiasm.
Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Business Management/Ownership
Undergrad: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Thurston enjoys Minnesota's outdoors year-round, from summer hiking to winter skiing. He and his wife cherish their rescue dog Ole, whose endearing obliviousness provides constant amusement in their household. Despite being part Beagle, he will walk right past his food on the floor without noticing it unless it is in his food dish.
As a GP doctor, Dr. Thurston gets to see complex internal medicine cases, perform surgery, and consult pet owners on nutrition and behavior, sometimes all on the same day. He strives to provide the highest quality of care to all his patients, utilizing skills in ultrasonography, endoscopy, and more.
Dr. Thurston began his path to vet school at the University of Minnesota majoring in animal science with a minor in business. While there, he worked at a small animal clinic as a technician assistant, volunteered at the university teaching hospital in the physical rehabilitation department, and worked for the swine department, researching new respiratory disease diagnostic methods and helping write a textbook for veterinary students to use during their food animal medicine class.
Dr. Thurston was also heavily involved in the pre-vet club and his church group, and he worked in the admissions office to set up custom tour experiences for prospective students. He enjoyed designing experiences that highlighted areas of interest for the students and connected them with faculty and resources they could use if they decided to attend the University of Minnesota. Dr. Thurston was recognized for his efforts with the National SAVMA John Pitts Award, given to a student for “exemplary service to the veterinary profession.”
When it comes to his approach to coaching, Dr. Thurston believes that every student starts their unique journey in their chosen field, accumulating valuable strengths along the way that contribute to their future success. He begins by exploring each student's individual path, helping them identify the strengths they have already developed. Drawing from his extensive knowledge of the veterinary profession, Dr. Thurston then guides students in presenting these strengths in a manner that resonates with admissions committees, demonstrating how the prospective student would fit into their incoming class and thrive at their institution.
Depending on the timeline before application deadlines, Dr. Thurston works with students to identify areas of their application that can be enhanced. This may involve building upon existing strengths or addressing gaps in experience or education. He recommends additional experiences, honors, or letters of recommendation that can bolster the student's profile.
Throughout the entire process, Dr. Thurston maintains regular communication with each student, ensuring they are comfortable with the pace and approach. He makes adjustments as necessary to tailor the experience to each individual's needs, recognizing that every student's journey is deserving of a personalized strategy.
At Inspira Advantage, Dr. Thurston loves connecting with prospective vet students and guiding them along the journey to achieving their dream of becoming veterinarians. Having worked with many veterinary students, he knows that successful students come from very diverse backgrounds and pre-vet experiences. He enjoys helping students discover and highlight the part of their journey that makes them a valuable addition to an incoming class.
Shelter Medicine
Undergrad: Cornell University
Vet School: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Cucui is French and Romanian and speaks both languages. In her spare time, she can be found doing aerial silks or hiking in national parks with her husband.
Dr. Cucui has been involved in the veterinary field for 15+ years. She worked at a veterinary clinic in NYC before attending Cornell, where she earned her BA in classics. Dr. Cucui spent her summers in college volunteering at a Romanian veterinary hospital and dog shelter as well as working at a zootherapy-focused equestrian center in Quebec. During the school year, Dr. Cucui would conduct independent studies examining veterinary practices in various cultures and historical periods, including Romania, ancient Greece, Rome, and India. Alongside her academic pursuits, Dr. Cucui showcased her leadership skills by captaining and coaching her rugby team.
Continuing her education at Cornell's veterinary school, Dr. Cucui focused primarily on shelter medicine. Her dedication to serving underserved communities was evident through her participation in Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) and Rural Veterinary Experience Teaching (RVETS) trips, providing medical and surgical care to cats, dogs, and horses in areas with limited access to veterinary services.
Dr. Cucui's innovative spirit shone through her research with the Alliance for Contraception in Cats & Dogs, where she developed a novel ear tag for free-roaming animals. This project earned her funding through Cornell's Expanding Horizons International Education Program, allowing her to conduct field trials in Romania. During her clinical year, Dr. Cucui gained experience through shelter-related externships, including forensics at the ASPCA and mobile spay/neuter services at the University of Illinois. This comprehensive training prepared her for a career dedicated to animal welfare and shelter medicine.
After earning her DVM, Dr. Cucui's professional journey took her to various settings, each contributing to her expertise in shelter medicine. She practiced at a private, non-profit animal shelter in Buffalo, NY, where she also taught veterinary students from Lincoln Memorial University. Her commitment to urban animal welfare led her back to NYC, where she worked at the city's municipal shelter before pursuing a fellowship in emergency medicine.
Currently, Dr. Cucui runs her own relief practice, specializing in high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter services, shelter medicine, and emergency care for various non-profits, corporations, and independent practices. Her long-term goals include becoming board-certified in shelter medicine and opening a spay/neuter clinic in rural Transylvania.
Throughout her career, Dr. Cucui has been a dedicated mentor to many pre-veterinary and veterinary students from diverse backgrounds. Her passion for teaching and her wealth of experience in various aspects of veterinary medicine help her provide high-impact mentorship to aspiring veterinarians.
As an admissions consultant, Dr. Cucui brings a perspective shaped by her first-generation professional status, her diverse international experiences, and her expertise in shelter and emergency medicine. She is committed to helping applicants navigate the complex veterinary school application process, drawing on her own journey and her experience mentoring students from various backgrounds. Dr. Cucui's goal is to empower the next generation of veterinarians, helping them highlight what makes them unique.
Marine Mammals, Aquatic Animals, and Wildlife, Research
Undergrad: Grand Valley State University
Vet School: Michigan State University
Dr. Rivard enjoys spending her free time hiking, camping, and paddleboarding in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and dog.
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.
Equine Ambulatory Medicine
Undergrad: Colorado State University
Veterinary School: Colorado State University School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. McDaniel spent her high school years training a wild Mustang. She went on to ride this horse in a drill team that performed for thousands of people at the National Western Stock Show in Denver.
During her time at Colorado State University's DVM program, Dr. McDaniel's career goals underwent significant changes. While she initially focused on equine medicine, she developed a strong interest in small animal care and oncology through her work as a veterinary assistant at CSU's Flint Animal Cancer Center.
After exploring a variety of both small animal and equine opportunities throughout veterinary school, her love for horses and working outdoors ultimately determined her career path. This experience of having to navigate her own changing interests and ultimately finding her passion in equine ambulatory practice has inspired her to mentor students facing similar challenges. She encourages her students to explore all aspects of veterinary medicine that interest them and emphasizes that it's never too late to change course in pursuit of one's true calling.
After graduation, Dr. McDaniel jumped right into equine general practice and emergency care. Her days now consist of driving between farms, translating into a lot of time spent driving down the road. Her favorite days are when she brings high school or pre-veterinary students along for the ride, filling the time between calls with stories of veterinary adventures, admission advice, and career insights. Sharing her passion for veterinary medicine and helping the next generation of veterinarians achieve their dreams is the highlight of her career.
Dr. McDaniel recognizes that every applicant brings a distinctive set of skills and experiences to the table. She takes pride in working closely with each individual to demonstrate how their presence will enrich both the veterinary school and the profession as a whole. She is a firm believer in the importance of diversity in veterinary medicine and is dedicated to helping her students highlight how their life experiences add value to the field.
Emergency and Critical Care, Small Animal Surgery
Undergrad: Ohio State University
Vet School: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Bartholomew is an avid outdoorswoman and enjoys hiking with her golden retriever, Bubba, meditating, drawing/painting, and Olympic weightlifting.
Dr. Bartholomew's journey began at Ohio State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (animal sciences) with a minor in neuroscience, graduating magna cum laude with Honors Research Distinction. She was involved in numerous extracurricular activities, including serving as Vice President and President of the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association, tutoring and advising students, and participating in research internships in South Africa and South America. She was also a member of the Ohio State University Marching Band for four years.
At Ohio State's veterinary school, Dr. Bartholomew demonstrated her leadership through roles such as President of her class, participation in student organizations, and involvement in research culminating in a first-author publication. She received the SAVMA Senior Service Award and the Gertrude Hoeger Award in Clinical Biomedical Research. She was an active member of organizations, such as VCA, VIDA, and Vet Prep, where she interviewed candidates and participated in new student orientation.
Dr. Bartholomew’s passion for leadership and service continued with a nomination to attend the Veterinary Leadership Institute’s Veterinary Leadership Experience (VLE), an organization dedicated to facilitating the growth of servant leaders within the veterinary profession.
After graduating magna cum laude with her DVM, Dr. Bartholomew pursued mixed animal practice in rural Pennsylvania and participated as a veterinarian for the Willow 300 Sled Dog Race. She transitioned to emergency practice through an emergency medicine training program and currently heads her hospital's emergency medicine training program, mentoring new graduate veterinarians. She has also written a chapter for the Five Minute Consult and continues to participate in Ohio State's file review process and the Veterinary Leadership Institute's Veterinary Leadership Experience.
Dr. Bartholomew is dedicated to helping new veterinarians grow and thrive. She enjoys guiding applicants through the admissions process in a way that feels manageable and empowering. Her strengths as a coach include helping applicants with self-exploration, developing compelling applications, and maintaining mental health while pursuing their passion. Her extensive experience with training new graduate veterinarians translates well to mentoring prospective students.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Bartholomew brings enthusiasm for mentoring and guiding individuals toward their goals. She takes a holistic approach, providing students with a structured plan for success and fostering a deep understanding of each applicant's attributes and desires. Her approach is grounded in genuine support and connection, ensuring tailored support for each individual.
Veterinary Preventive Medicine
Undergrad: DePauw University
Graduate School: Ohio State University
Dr. Seal loves snowboarding and arts/crafts.
Dr. Seal completed her MPH from Ohio State, followed by her DVM. Most recently, she expanded her expertise with a graduate certificate in global health. As a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, she has also mentored others in preparing for this challenging board exam.
During her military service, Dr. Seal completed three levels of the army's resiliency training created by the University of Pennsylvania. She continues to share these valuable skills to improve well-being among veterinary professionals, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance without compromising career progression. While serving, she provided quality care and support to military working dogs, wildlife, and livestock, as well as public health and food safety services to human personnel.
Dr. Seal’s strong academic background has helped her pursue her passion for advancing animal and human health across borders and cultures. She has participated in multiple global health initiatives and projects, such as conducting disease surveillance, delivering health education, and facilitating partnerships with local communities and organizations.
As an admissions counselor, Dr. Seal's approach is characterized by honesty, constructiveness, and a genuine desire to help applicants succeed. She believes in highlighting each applicant's uniqueness, passion, and drive, demonstrating how they can be an asset to both the veterinary school program and the profession as a whole. Her ultimate goal is to ensure every applicant puts their best foot forward to maximize their chances of acceptance.
On a personal note, Dr. Seal has been married to her husband, Matt, for 14 years, and they have two daughters, Cara (11) and Piper (9). She enjoys outdoor activities with her family, including snowboarding and playing softball. Dr. Seal is also an avid board game enthusiast. In all her endeavors, she considers the example she sets for her daughters, including her commitment to supporting the future of the veterinary profession.
Research, Pathology, Government
Undergrad: Kansas State University
Veterinary School: Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Outside of work, Dr. Seger enjoys competing in the jumpers on her paint mare, Stella, who she adopted while in her PhD program.
Dr. Seger pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinary researcher at Kansas State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in animal sciences and industry with a pre-veterinary science option and an equine certificate. She was accepted into Kansas State’s Early Admissions program to veterinary school during her undergraduate studies. While pursuing her DVM, she was accepted into a dual-degree program and completed her PhD in diagnostic medicine and pathobiology. Through her studies, Dr. Seger has developed a passion for making meaningful research impacts on animal diseases of human importance.
In addition to her research interests, Dr. Seger is passionate about assisting individuals on their journeys to veterinary school, graduate school, or a dual degree program. Her approach to admissions counseling is holistic, taking into account all aspects of a student's story and where they see themselves in a career setting. She believes that each student has unique experiences that have shaped their path and given them the skills they need to succeed as future veterinarians.
As a coach, Dr. Seger excels at helping students craft stand-out personal statements and prepare for interviews. She uses her unique experiences and insight to help students find their own perfect match in a veterinary program.
Dr. Seger's passion for making meaningful research impacts on animal diseases of human importance and her commitment to delivering exceptional patient care make her an exceptional resource for those pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.
Epidemiology
Undergrad: Saint Louis University
Masters: University of Minnesota
Veterinary School: University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Jedlinski is a Philly sports fan and enjoys reading. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife and daughter, two dogs named Obi and Stella, and a Russian tortoise named Phil.
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.
With his extensive academic and research background, Dr. Jedlinski 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, provides him with a specialized perspective to share with aspiring veterinarians.
Small Animal Medicine, Laboratory Animal Medicine, Small Mammals, Surgery, and Emergency Neurology
Undergrad: University of California, San Diego
Vet School: Western University of Health Sciences
In her free time, Dr. Sedighim loves to draw, hike, and spend quality time with her feline companion, Oliver.
Dr. Sedighim has always been driven by an innate love for healthcare and animals, which sparked her interest in becoming a veterinarian. Her academic journey began at the University of California, San Diego, where she obtained her Bachelor's degree in physiology and neuroscience. During her time at UCSD, she studied laboratory animal medicine, gaining experience that would later shape her career path.
Sharona's commitment to animal welfare led her to work with the San Diego Humane Society, where she gained hands-on experience in small animal general practice and shelter work. These experiences not only fortified her resolve to become a veterinarian but also provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of veterinary care. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Sedighim remained deeply engaged in research, primarily focusing on cardiac and translational medicine. Her efforts have resulted in multiple publications and presentations.
From volunteering as a basketball coach for elementary students to guiding aspiring veterinary professionals in her research labs, she actively supports and nurtures the growth of those around her. Dr. Sedighimoffers insider tips to aspiring veterinarians on their paths to vet school. Dr. Sedighim is passionate about helping pre-vet students enter the field and wants to extend the same expertise and compassion her mentors gave her on her path toward becoming a veterinarian.
Emergency Medicine, Surgery, Primary Care, Dermatology
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Veterinary School: University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Writt loves to read and is an avid fan of the Harry Potter series, although she is always looking for new book recommendations. She also enjoys supporting Wisconsin sports teams and spending time with her family and their cat Callie.
Dr. Writt earned her undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison before pursuing her DVM. During her time at UW–Madison, she began her journey in student support as a peer academic advisor, a role she continued for three years through her undergraduate and veterinary studies. This experience ignited her passion for counseling, as she found great fulfillment in supporting students both professionally and personally as they worked toward their goals.
In addition to her academic advising role, Dr. Writt served as a mentor for two years during veterinary school, further honing her skills in guiding and supporting students. Her experience in small and large animal clinical research has provided her with a deep understanding of the complexities of veterinary medicine. Her leadership roles in veterinary school extracurricular activities have also deepened her skills in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
As a consultant, Dr. Writt specializes in helping students navigate the application process by setting small, frequent, and specific goals to make it more manageable. She understands the stress associated with applying to veterinary school and strives to make the process as enjoyable as possible, often incorporating humor into her sessions to keep spirits high.
One of Dr. Writt's greatest strengths as a consultant is her skill in proofreading essays and personal statements. She excels at helping students refine their writing to ensure they stand out to admissions committees. Her coaching style focuses on identifying and highlighting each student's strengths, incorporating specific aspects of their personality to create compelling applications.
Dr. Writt approaches each counseling session with the individual student in mind, tailoring her guidance to their specific needs and goals. She draws from her personal experience with the application process to provide relevant, up-to-date advice, including current educational and admissions insights.
Her current veterinary interests include emergency medicine, surgery, primary care, and dermatology. Her academic and counseling background allows Dr. Writt to offer comprehensive support to students aspiring to enter the field of veterinary medicine.
Equine Philosophy
Undergrad: Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
Graduate School: Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Veterinary School: UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
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 has won second place in both a pie eating contest and watermelon eating contest.
Dr Elcombe earned her BS in animal science with a minor in equine science from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. 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 specializing in equine physiology at Southern Illinois University. 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 tracked 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, and her receipt of the Foundation for the Horse/AAEP Coyote Rock Ranch Scholarship.
As a veterinary admissions consultant, Dr. Elcombe brings firsthand experience of the challenges in the application process. She understands the stress and frustration that can come 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 veterinary school.
When she’s not working, she 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.
Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia
Undergrad: Pennsylvania State University
Veterinary School: The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
During her undergraduate years, Dr. Mika participated in various activities, including working in a small mammal virome research lab, tutoring students in organic chemistry, tailgating, and hiking with her greyhound named Gino. As a vet student, she helped rehabilitate wildlife, completed a course in veterinary business management, made pottery, and adopted a bearded dragon named Gusto.
Dr. Mika began her studies at Pennsylvania State University, where she majored in Veterinary and Biomedical Science and minored in Poultry and Avian Science. Driven by her passion for veterinary medicine, she went on to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Participating in an internship at an equine referral hospital, she gained hands-on experience managing emergency cases and assisting with surgeries daily. During her time at UPenn, she developed a particular interest in equine medicine, which has since become a central focus of her clinical work.
As a coach, Dr. Mika is committed to providing her students with the guidance, support, and resources they need to succeed in the veterinary school application process. She works closely with each student to develop a customized schedule that allows ample time for brainstorming, drafting, and refining their application materials.
She recognizes that every student has different priorities, interests, and strengths and works closely with each individual to identify programs that align with their specific needs and objectives. By taking the time to understand her students' motivations and career goals, she provides personalized guidance and support throughout the application process.
Another key aspect of Dr. Mika's advising approach is her focus on helping students craft applications that accurately reflect their true identities and experiences. She understands that the most compelling applications are those that highlight a student's qualities, achievements, and passion for veterinary medicine. To this end, she works diligently with her students to highlight their strengths, refine their personal statements, and ensure that their applications present a holistic and authentic picture of who they are as individuals and aspiring veterinarians.
Small Animal, Emergency/Urgent Care, End-of-Life Care
Undergrad: University of Florida
Veterinary School: UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Clark enjoys EDM music and traveling the country to music festivals with her fiancé. They have a cat named Frank and a Husky-German Shepherd mix named Gator (after their favorite team mascot, the Florida Gators!).
Born and raised in Clearwater, Florida, Dr. Clark always knew she wanted to be a veterinarian. Her passion for animals led her to the University of Florida for her undergraduate studies, where she double-majored in animal science and Spanish language and was a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. Dr. Clark not only excelled academically, but gained valuable hands-on experience by volunteering at local small animal clinics and working overnight shifts as a research assistant on a canine gene therapy study.
In her junior year, Dr. Clark was in a car accident that left her unable to walk for six months. Despite this adversity, she preserved and achieved a 4.0 GPA. At the end of her senior year, she was awarded the Greek Academic Achievement Award—the highest academic honor in Greek Life, awarded to only one candidate annually.
After being admitted to several veterinary schools across the country, Dr. Clark decided on a new adventure and moved to California to attend the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. She focused her studies on the small animal track and used her time away from studies to explore California and have unique experiences that kept her motivated.
Dr. Clark understands that there is no one “formula” to get admitted to veterinary school. As an admissions coach, she is passionate about guiding prospective veterinary students, believing that authenticity and personal growth are key to success. She’s eager to help future veterinarians navigate this exciting chapter of their educational and professional careers!
Small Animal Surgery and Research
Undergrad: University of California, Davis
Veterinary School: University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Bianchi is trilingual. She speaks Italian, Spanish, and English. She is a hiking enthusiast and loves the outdoors. She is also an avid cook and baker.
Dr. Bianchi’s academic journey began at UC Davis, where she graduated magna cum laude with a BS in animal science and a minor in Italian. During her undergraduate years, Dr. Bianchi demonstrated a strong commitment to research and community service. She was involved in two research labs, working on correlating CRISPR knockout mouse model phenotypes to human-associated diseases and studying how certain feed additives can mitigate greenhouse gasses produced by dairy cattle. Her research efforts culminated in a presentation at an undergraduate research conference and the completion of a manuscript.
During this time, Dr. Bianchi's passion for veterinary medicine extended beyond the classroom. She was heavily involved with a student-run veterinary clinic providing free services for the pets of homeless individuals and co-founded a club to collect and donate veterinary medical supplies to underprivileged clinics abroad. Her hands-on experience includes working as a technician at a specialty hospital and gaining exposure to wildlife veterinary care during a summer internship in Australia.
In vet school, Dr. Bianchi also served as President of the Mercer Veterinary Clinic for Pets of the Homeless and Vice President for the Student American Veterinary Medicine Association at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Bianchi spent a summer conducting orthopedic research on a specific breed of dog that suffers from a disorder called chondrodystrophy. She was also the recipient of the Students Training in Advanced Research (STAR) Award, allowing her to receive grants to conduct her own research project.
Dr. Bianchi's academic achievements and contributions to the field have been recognized through various honors. She was awarded the AJVR Outstanding Student Manuscript Award, demonstrating her exceptional research and writing skills. She has helped many veterinary students get into vet school nationwide and internationally. Her strengths lie in helping students effectively navigate the VMCAS application cycle, including essay writing and interview preparation.
Dr. Bianchi’s experience with the veterinary school application process makes her a valuable resource for aspiring veterinary students. She is passionate about helping the incoming generation of veterinary doctors and is eager to share her knowledge and insights to help others navigate the application process successfully.
Small Animal, Emergency
Undergrad: University of Florida
Veterinary School: University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Woods is passionate about staying active through workouts and group fitness activities like yoga and hip-hop classes. She also enjoys singing and was part of an a cappella group during high school and college.
While at the University of Florida, Dr. Woods was actively involved with a clinical pathology lab, focusing on her interest in small animal medicine, particularly urgent care cases. Dr. Woods’ professional experience spans various sectors of animal care, including small animal emergency settings, general practice clinics, and wildlife rehabilitation centers. This diverse background provides her with a comprehensive understanding of different aspects of veterinary medicine, which she leverages to guide aspiring veterinarians.
As a consultant, Dr. Woods’ greatest strengths lie in her exceptional organizational skills, adaptability, and efficiency—traits honed through her current role in emergency medicine. She excels at helping applicants optimize their resources and time management, ensuring they present the strongest possible applications. Her involvement with the interview panel at her veterinary school has also equipped her with insider tips for conducting mock interviews.
Beyond her academic and clinical pursuits, Dr. Woods is passionate about helping aspiring veterinary students navigate the challenging and time-consuming application process. Having experienced the stress of this journey firsthand, she empathizes deeply with the difficulties faced by applicants and is committed to supporting them in every possible way.
Dr. Woods’ approach to consulting is highly personalized. She prefers working with one applicant at a time, allowing for intensive, one-on-one guidance. Dr. Woods is a supportive guide who excels at recognizing and highlighting each applicant's strengths, helping them present the best version of themselves to admissions committees.
With her academic excellence, practical experience across various veterinary settings, and genuine passion for mentoring, Dr. Woods is well-equipped to guide aspiring veterinary students through every step of their journey, from crafting compelling applications to preparing for interviews and beyond.
Small and Large Animal, Zoo and Exotic Wildlife Medicine
Undergrad: University of South Florida
Vet School: Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Troncoso has Great Danes and works with them as therapy dogs, visiting cancer patients in hospitals. Her favorite animal is a raccoon. She is a first-generation Cuban American.
Dr. Troncoso has worked as a licensed Florida wildlife rehabilitator for over seven years and is a Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR) through the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. She currently serves on the board of Owl's Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she provides comprehensive care for a diverse range of patients, from household pets to exotic species, on her small hobby farm.
Throughout her training, Dr. Troncoso gained experience at various prestigious institutions. She completed externships at the Animal Care Center at Busch Gardens in Tampa, FL, and Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) in Sanibel, FL. She also spent several months at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Jacksonville, FL, honing her skills in zoological medicine. Her passion for exotic animal care led her to pursue extended rotations in exotic animal and raptor medicine, as well as an exotic-only externship at Broward Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital in Deerfield Beach, FL.
While exotic animal medicine is her primary focus, Dr. Troncoso's professional interests also include dermatology, oncology, and small ruminant medicine. This diverse skill set allows her to provide comprehensive care to a wide range of patients.
In her free time, Dr. Troncoso enjoys spending time with her animals and family, especially her nieces and nephew. Her love for all animals is evident in her willingness to see any patient who comes through the clinic doors, whether they are furry, feathered, scaled, or hooved.
Emergency Medicine
Undergrad: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Graduate School: Kansas State University
Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine
In her free time, Dr. Voss loves to ski, mountain bike, travel in her camper van, or hang out at home with her three-legged orange tabby cat.
Dr. Voss grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area before making her way to Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo to obtain a BS in animal science and a minor in biology. After taking some time to travel and gather work experience, she decided to pursue a Master's degree in public health at Kansas State University. This degree had a specific emphasis on zoonotic and infectious diseases. With her Master's in hand, she returned to California for veterinary school.
After graduation, Dr. Voss' professional journey took her to a large specialty hospital in Denver for a rotating small animal and surgery internship. She has been practicing emergency medicine in Colorado ever since, and has worked with and coached many interns and externs.
Dr. Voss takes pride in her teaching and career counseling capabilities. Her coaching experience, paired with her role on the Western University of Health Science College of Veterinary Medicine admissions committee, provides her with unique insights into the vet school admissions process and how to best position candidates.
Dr. Voss is passionate about helping students identify and highlight their unique strengths in their applications and preparing them for interviews. She has a keen eye for editing personal statements and essays, helping students capture their experiences and aspirations accurately.
Orthodontics
Undergrad: Emory University
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Despite growing up in a city, Dr. Stein has been snow-skiing since she was three years old and was the captain of her Varsity Ski Team in high school. She is also an avid gym-goer and runner who made it a priority during her busy dental school/residency years to continue her healthy habits!
Dr. Stein, a native of Manhattan, NYC has always been driven by her passion for dentistry and her desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. Her journey began at Emory University, where she followed a pre-dental track and earned a BS in biology. Her exceptional academic performance led her to the University of Pennsylvania's School of Dental Medicine, where she was awarded a Dean's Merit Scholarship in recognition of her outstanding achievements both inside and outside the classroom.
During her time at Penn Dental, Dr. Stein discovered her true calling in the field of orthodontics. Her fascination with the intricacies of dental alignment and her desire to help patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles propelled her to apply to some of the most competitive orthodontic residency programs in the country. Through her hard work, dedication, and impressive track record, Dr. Stein secured a spot at her top choice—Columbia University's Orthodontic Residency Program.
Dr. Stein has navigated multiple application cycles, interview processes, and a series of rigorous exams, gaining invaluable experience and insight along the way. Having overcome these obstacles herself, she developed a strong desire to help other students facing similar challenges in their pursuit of a career in dentistry. She recognized the complexity of the application process and the importance of having a knowledgeable, supportive mentor to guide students through the journey.
Drawing from her own experiences in admissions and her deep understanding of what makes a strong application, Dr. Stein has dedicated herself to serving as a mentor to college-level and dental school students. She provides comprehensive guidance and advice throughout the dental school and residency application processes, helping students highlight their strengths and achievements.
One of Dr. Stein's greatest strengths is her exceptional organizational skills and her commitment to efficiency. She understands the demanding lifestyle of college students and the importance of managing time effectively. She takes pride in creating prioritized to-do lists, breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps, and collaborating with students to ensure that they can complete their applications and requirements in a way that is both efficient and minimally overwhelming. Her goal is to empower students to achieve their dreams while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Pediatric Dentistry
Undergrad: University of Connecticut
Dental School: Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Dr. Sonnenberg is a third-generation dentist whose passion for dentistry runs deep in the family. An avid golfer and snowboarder, he also enjoys cooking and awaits the review of his culinary creations by his wife, Phoebe.
Throughout his years of intensive post-doctoral training, Dr. Sonnenberg demonstrated a commitment to excellence. He completed a General Practice Residency at Staten Island University Hospital, where he honed his skills in providing comprehensive dental care to a diverse patient population. Following this, he pursued a Pediatric Dentistry Residency at Woodhull Medical Center, further specializing in the specialized dental needs of children.
Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Sonnenberg is a strong advocate for mentorship within the dental profession. He recognizes that each individual possesses a set of talents and strengths, and he is committed to helping aspiring dentists identify and capitalize on these attributes. His belief in the power of mentorship as a tool for professional development drives him to assist others in achieving their goals and realizing their full potential.
Dr. Sonnenberg's multifaceted experiences, ranging from his educational achievements to his clinical practice and mentorship endeavors, have not only contributed to the advancement of the dental profession but also fostered a sense of community and support among aspiring professionals. With his impressive background, dedication to excellence, and passion for guiding others, he is an exceptional dentist and mentor, making a lasting impact on the field of dentistry.
General Dentistry
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Yang loves traveling and has been to 14 countries.
Dr. Yang is from Dallas, TX, and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with her Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and sociology. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine with her DMD and has practiced as a general dentist for four years. She also completed the ADEA Academic Dental Careers Fellowship Program.
Dr. Yang is a first-generation college and professional school graduate. She obtained a full-tuition scholarship to fund her college education and another scholarship for her dental degree. Throughout college, she was a teaching assistant and served as a mentor for freshmen students. She was also involved in student leadership, volunteer work, and research.
With her background and experiences, Dr. Yang confidently leads pre-dental students to craft strong applications and reach their goals. She has a strong passion for mentorship because she attributes her successes to her mentors who helped her navigate the admissions process.
General Dentistry
Undergrad: University of Minnesota
Dental School: University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Dr. Issac loves cooking, traveling to new places, and experiencing new cultures. She is always looking for a new restaurant to try and a new recipe to experiment with!
Dr. Issac graduated from the University of Minnesota with a major in biology, society, and the environment and a minor in the history of science, technology, and medicine. Growing up, Dr. Issac was very passionate about helping others which translated into countless volunteer opportunities and experiences exposing her to different fields of healthcare. Dr. Issac ultimately decided to pursue a career in dentistry after attending a six-week program called the Summer Dental School Experience, where she did extensive research about oral health disparities under the assistant dean for admissions and diversity at the University of Minnesota.
During college, Dr. Issac worked as a pharmacy technician while continuously engaging in many extracurriculars, including serving on the pre-dental club board and volunteering at a local community dental clinic and her church. After graduation, she attended the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and was the youngest in her class.
In her last year of dental school, Dr. Issac was selected as a student ambassador. In this position, she gave tours of the school to applicants, conducted interviews, and aided the admissions committee in selecting applicants they wanted to offer an acceptance to. This was a very exciting role for her as she advised aspiring applicants with the knowledge of the reality of what dental school entails. Since then, Dr. Issac has had a passion for helping pre-dental students in their endeavor for professional school and mentoring them throughout school.
Dr. Isaac has experience mentoring and consulting students ever since her first year of dental school. She was very active in the pre-dental club at her university and knew many of the members who would often reach out to her for advice with applications, including personal statement editing and interview prep. In her final year of dental school, she served as a student ambassador where she led tours of the school, answered questions, and conducted interviews to assist with the admissions committee. Since graduating from dental school, she has assisted students both near and far with every aspect of the application process.
Dr. Isaac’s consulting is extremely personalized. She takes extra time getting to know each applicant and determining how they can stand out from the crowd to present the strongest application possible. She is eager to work with students to help them achieve their dreams of becoming dentists, no matter their background, and is passionate about making students stand out as exceptional applicants.
Dr. Isaac’s greatest strength as a coach is interview preparation. She believes that being personable is one of her greatest assets and something that sets her apart from others. She has a simple strategy for admission that she is looking forward to sharing with students and answering any questions in detail.
General Dentistry
Undergrad: Virginia Commonwealth University
Dental School: Nova Southeastern University
In her spare time, Dr. Soltanian enjoys traveling and spending quality time with friends and family.
Dr. Soltanian began her journey at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she studied a combination of business administration and chemistry. Throughout her undergraduate years, she participated in various extracurricular activities and held leadership positions in several organizations. From peer mentoring to multidisciplinary healthcare clubs, these experiences played a crucial role in helping her discover her passion for guiding and supporting aspiring dental students. After graduating, she pursued her passion for dentistry at Nova Southeastern University, where she earned her DMD.
Upon completing her dental education, she returned to Virginia, where she established Glowing Smiles Dentistry. Even after completing dental school, her commitment to guiding pre-dental students remains steadfast as she offers shadowing opportunities in her practice. Each year, she welcomes a few students, ensuring she is supporting future dentists.
During her first year of dental school, Dr. Soltanian challenged herself with training for a full 26-mile marathon while balancing her rigorous academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments. Remarkably, she completed the marathon within the same year, showcasing her exceptional discipline, determination, and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
With her degree in business administration and experience as a practice owner, Dr. Soltanian offers a distinctive perspective to students pursuing non-traditional science majors with the goal of opening and managing their own practices. She guides students in selecting science and business courses, as well as insights into practice management. Having completed both degrees and gaining acceptance to dental school within the typical four-year university timeframe, she offers practical expertise and proven strategies to help students achieve their academic and professional goals seamlessly.
One of Dr. Soltantian’s greatest strengths is her educational and professional background, which sets her apart from the typical dentist. With a blend of business administration expertise and hands-on experience in practice ownership, she offers a unique perspective and valuable insights to navigate the complexities of the dental profession.
Dr. Soltanian is dedicated to giving back to her community and ensuring that everyone has access to quality dental care. She is a frequent participant in Give Kids a Smile, an annual event that provides dental services to children who may not otherwise have the means to receive proper oral healthcare.
Pediatric Dentistry
Undergrad: University of Virginia
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Pirooz grew up in England and Singapore and has a deep love for travel that continues today. She has visited over 60 countries. When not exploring new destinations with her husband, she enjoys learning new languages, attending concerts, and staying active.
Dr. Pirooz has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence throughout her academic journey. At HSDM, she was awarded the Silver Medal for Scholastic Excellence, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Predoctoral Student Award for promise in the field of pediatric dentistry, and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, a prestigious dental honor society. Additionally, she received several academic and performance scholarships, further highlighting her exceptional abilities and dedication to the field of dentistry. She has also volunteered as an Oral Health Educator at Boston's Children's Hospital and the University of Rwanda.
After earning her DMD from HSDM, Dr. Pirooz completed her pediatric dental residency at Columbia University, which was her top choice. This experience, combined with her current practice as a board-certified pediatric dentist, has given her a specialized perspective on the skills and qualities necessary for success in the field of dentistry.
What sets Dr. Pirooz apart as a counselor is her passion for teaching and mentoring, which began during her two years as a physics and biology high school teacher post-undergrad. This experience led her to work with students throughout dental school, residency, and beyond. For nearly a decade, she has been advising pre-dental students on dental school admissions and providing expert guidance as a DAT tutor.
Dr. Pirooz's strengths lie in her ability to guide each candidate in crafting their most distinguished and compelling application, setting them up for success in securing admission to their desired dental schools. She understands the challenges and complexities of the dental school admissions process and works closely with her students to help them showcase their strengths, experiences, and passion for the field.
Dental Surgery
Undergrad: University of Illinois at Champaign–Urbana
Dental School: New York University College of Dentistry
Dr. Chauhan is an avid artist who participates in various art forms, including drawing, painting, and ceramics, and has found ways to incorporate her creative skills into her clinical practice.
Dr. Chauhan's passion for mentoring and supporting students stems from her own experiences navigating the challenging world of academia and her desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. She understands the importance of breaking down the application process into manageable steps and identifying each candidate's strengths to create a tailored approach that meets their individual needs. At the NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Chauhan learned more about the intricacies of dental school admissions.
As a coach, Dr. Chauhan's greatest strengths lie in her ability to connect with students, empathize with their challenges, and provide personalized guidance that empowers them to succeed. Her deep understanding of the application process, combined with her nurturing and supportive approach, has been instrumental in helping students fortify their applications and gain acceptance to top-tier institutions.
In addition to her expertise in admissions consulting, Dr. Chauhan brings a unique perspective to her work through her passion for art and design. She participates in various art forms and has found innovative ways to use these skills in her clinical practice. This creative background allows her to approach challenges with a fresh perspective and develop innovative solutions that benefit students.
Pediatrics
Undergrad: University of Iowa
Graduate: Emerson College
Dental School: Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Fadie spent part of her undergraduate time studying abroad in Argentina! There, she learned Spanish and traveled throughout South America.
Dr. Fadie earned her Bachelor of Science in psychology from the University of Iowa and her Master of Science in speech-language pathology from Emerson College before pursuing her DMD at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Her exceptional performance during her dental studies was recognized through her induction into the Honos Civicus Society and the receipt of prestigious scholarships, such as the ADEA GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Preventative Dentistry Scholarship and the Dr. Alfred and Mrs. D. Suzi Osher Scholarship.
Following her dental education, Dr. Fadie completed her specialty training in pediatric dentistry at NYU Langone, further honing her skills in working with young patients. During her residency, she was selected for the Rhode Island Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Disabilities Program interdisciplinary Fellowship program.
As a leader in the dental field, Dr. Fadie founded and presided over a chapter of the Academy of Developmental Medicine in Dentistry. Before her dentistry career, she worked as a speech pathologist at Boston Children's Hospital, gaining experience working with children and collaborating with healthcare professionals.
Throughout her academic journey and career, Dr. Fadie has been actively engaged in research, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in both speech-language pathology and pediatric dentistry. Her research portfolio includes the publication of numerous book chapters and valuable contributions to studies in these fields.
As an admissions coach, Dr. Fadie leverages her rich mentorship and teaching experience to build meaningful connections with dental applicants. She is adept at identifying key attributes that contribute to shaping a comprehensive and competitive application, drawing from her firsthand knowledge of the admissions process and her experience working with a diverse range of candidates. Her warm and supportive approach, combined with her ability to provide personalized guidance and strategic advice, ensures that her students receive the tools and resources they need to succeed in their pursuit of a career in dentistry.
Dr. Fadie has a track record of successfully mentoring a diverse spectrum of candidates, ranging from non-traditional and re-applicants to those taking gap years. This experience, coupled with her nuanced understanding of the dental school admissions process, makes her an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to craft a comprehensive and competitive application for dental school and dental specialties.
Orthodontics
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
If Dr. Ng wasn't in dentistry, he would be a pilot!
Before residency, Dr. Ng completed his Bachelor’s in biological sciences at the University of Pittsburgh and his DMD at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, graduating with honors in Community Oral Health and Care of Medically Complex Patients.
Passionate about providing care to underserved communities, Dr. Ng was a part of the National Health Service Corps and worked for two years as a general dentist in Frisco, CO, providing care to mountain communities nestled around Colorado’s famous ski resorts. He has returned to academia to pursue his specialty in orthodontics.
As a coach, Dr. Ng strongly believes in becoming an ally and partner to help applicants achieve their goals. He draws upon his experiences in mentorship and teaching both undergraduate and pre-doctoral students to foster and showcase an applicant’s unique traits. He is excited to be a part of Inspira and is committed to helping students make their goals a reality!
Periodontology, Dental Implant Surgery
Undergrad: University of Toronto
Graduate School: McGill University Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences
Dental School: New York University College of Dentistry
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 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.
Restorative Dentist, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry
Undergrad: University of Portland
Dental School: Oregon Health & Sciences University
When not practicing dentistry, Dr. Laurente loves to explore Seattle's various farmers' markets, restaurants, and museums. She also enjoys spending quiet days at home with a good book or sketchbook.
Dr. Laurente's journey to becoming a dentist began in her hometown of Portland, Oregon. She graduated from the University of Portland with a BS in biology, along with minors in neuroscience and chemistry. She discovered her passion for mentoring and teaching while working as a student tutor for biology and chemistry courses and as a teaching assistant in the microbiology labs. These experiences laid the foundation for her future role as a guide and mentor to aspiring dental students.
To gain hands-on experience in the dental field and confirm her career choice, Dr. Laurente worked as a receptionist in the front office and as a sterilization technician in the back office, gaining valuable information about the day-to-day operations of a dental practice. During this time, she also focused on crafting her dental school application. Dr. Laurente's dedication and thorough preparation paid off as she traveled across the country for numerous dental school interviews. Ultimately, she chose to attend Oregon Health & Sciences University, staying close to her roots in her home state of Oregon.
Dr. Laurente’s firsthand experience with the application process and her success in securing a spot at a prestigious dental school have equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide others through their own application journeys. As a coach, she excels at putting together a timeline and helping students stay organized, compose a winning personal statement, and prepare for interviews.
General Dentistry
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Dental School: University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Dr. Simmons spends her free time doing pilates, traveling, and playing with her puppy, Meatball.
Dr. Simmons’ journey in the field of dentistry began at the University of Michigan, where she earned a BS in biopsychology, cognition, and neuroscience, laying a solid foundation for her future pursuits. Continuing her journey, Dr. Simmons attended the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, widely regarded as one of the top-ranked dental schools in the United States and the world.
After graduating with her DDS, Dr. Simmons continued to expand her knowledge and skills by completing an advanced education in general dentistry residency. This additional training has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the field and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care.
With years of coaching and tutoring experience, Dr. Simmons has honed her skills in mentoring and supporting aspiring dental students. Throughout her time in dental school, she served as a student mentor, sharing her knowledge and insights with those following in her footsteps. Her dedication to helping others enter the profession is driven by her belief in the importance of providing a diverse and talented pool of dental professionals.
Dr. Simmons prides herself on tailoring her approach with each student to make them as successful as possible. She is committed to ensuring students feel supported throughout the application process and gain the insight they need to strengthen their candidacy and get into their dream dental schools.
General Dentistry
Undergrad: University of North Dakota
Dental School: University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
In his spare time, Dr. Dutt enjoys hiking, reading, and binging Netflix series. He also has a one-year-old black lab named Maui, loves exploring new restaurants, and enjoys traveling; his next trip is to see Taylor Swift in London!
With a Bachelor of Science degree with Honors from the University of North Dakota, Dr. Dutt exemplifies academic excellence. As an Honors Program graduate, he was part of a community of motivated peers and engaging faculty, developing essential life skills such as critical thinking, civic engagement, and effective communication. This foundation prepared him to be a leader in his field.
After graduation from dental school, Dr. Dutt began a comprehensive Navy dental credentialing tour at the USS Osborne Dental Clinic in North Chicago, gaining expertise in various dental disciplines. Demonstrating proficiency in Prosthodontics, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, and Oral Diagnosis, he developed a versatile skill set and a commitment to excellence in patient care.
Following his time in Illinois, Dr. Dutt was assigned to the Naval Health Clinic Oak Harbor in Washington. There, he optimized dental health for thousands of warfighters, showcasing a strong dedication to process improvement. Currently on the path to opening a private practice in the Seattle metropolitan area, he brings a blend of clinical expertise and business acumen to his coaching role.
Passionate about coaching, Dr. Dutt has successfully guided students through the dental school application process, taking pride in witnessing their achievements and contributions to the dental field. His commitment to excellence, leadership skills, and hands-on experience make him an invaluable resource for candidates navigating the dental school application journey.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Undergrad: Villanova University
Dental school: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Im is an avid outdoor enthusiast who cycled across the country before dental school! Her recent hobbies include crocheting and golfing, albeit she has room for improvement in the latter. She cherishes time spent with her dog, Denver, and her husband. Dr. Im is also a self-proclaimed food critic who loves to travel with her husband to sample diverse cuisines.
With a keen understanding of what dental schools seek in candidates, she applied to and was accepted into every seven-year program she applied to. She has been involved in the interview process at Penn Dental and continues to participate in alumni interviews for the school.
Dr. Im's academic achievements earned her a Dean's scholarship for all four years of her dental education. Her pursuit of excellence did not stop there; during dental school, she applied for and was awarded a competitive scholarship program that allowed her to concurrently pursue an MPH degree at the Perelman School of Medicine, with full tuition covered by Penn Dental. Dr. Im was also awarded a full dental school scholarship through the Air Force, which required her to serve after graduation.
As an admissions consultant, Dr. Im excels at guiding applicants through their dental school submissions and helping them identify and pinpoint their strengths to stand out to admissions committees. She excels at assisting applicants to discover what makes them stand out and how to best portray that to schools. Through her own myriad of interviews for dental schools and scholarship opportunities, she has honed in on best practices and has coached others on how to ace an interview.
General Dentistry and Public Health
Undergrad: UC Berkeley
Dental School: Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine
Despite being professionally trained not to consume too much sugar, Dr. Lee still has a big sweet tooth and is a green tea connoisseur!
Dr. Lee earned his dual BA degrees in social welfare and East Asian languages & cultures—Japanese at the University of California, Berkeley, and his DMD degree, Cum Laude, at the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Lee's commitment to whole-person care for underserved populations stems from his interdisciplinary studies, social work, and humanistic approach to dental medicine. His diverse clinical experience spans various organizations, including a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), a large Dental Support Organization (DSO), a pediatric dental clinic, and private dental offices. Driven by a pragmatic idealism, Dr. Lee is passionate about integrating the latest dental techniques and technologies into his practice and constantly seeks innovative ways to further develop his skill set.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Dr. Lee is a passionate artist and volunteer. He expresses his creative talents through his lifelong hobbies—Piano, Pottery, and Photography. He also gives back to his community by volunteering as a UCEAP Alumni Scholarship reviewer and participating in weekly bible study/fellowship meetings. In the future, he aims to deepen his knowledge of public health through further education and training.
Endodontics
Undergrad: Emory University
Dental School: University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston
Dr. Chien enjoys traveling and has been to Korea, Taiwan, Italy, France, and a handful of US cities this year! Before dentistry, she worked as a consultant for an electronic medical record company and enjoyed traveling to different US client sites and training providers. She would love to share her favorite travel destinations and also learn more!
Dr. Chien's journey in dentistry has been marked by exceptional achievements and a commitment to excellence. Starting at Emory University, Dr. Chien laid the foundation for what would be a stellar education in dentistry. During her dental school application process, she was accepted into seven prestigious programs, including the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston, where she ultimately chose to pursue her education. Dr. Chien's innovative spirit was recognized with an award from the Informatics Department for developing software to help students navigate clinic operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Following her dental school education, Dr. Chien applied to eight Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) programs, interviewed at seven, and successfully matched to the AEGD program in Atlanta, Georgia. This additional training has further improved her skills and expertise as a general dentist.
Dr. Chien's approach to mentoring is rooted in her belief in the power of connection and shared experiences. She emphasizes the importance of clarifying goals and aspirations, and she is committed to helping candidates develop not only a compelling personal story but also a strategic roadmap to highlight their achievements and strengths throughout the application process.
Dr. Chien has extensive experience helping numerous dental school colleagues and underclassmen navigate the residency application process. Her firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities in dental education and practice makes her an invaluable resource for aspiring dental professionals.
Dr. Chien values open and constructive communication, respect for schedules, and a commitment to meeting deadlines. She seeks to work with applicants who are receptive to feedback and willing to engage in a collaborative, goal-oriented process.
General Dentistry
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Dental School: University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Fiamoncini loves hiking, riding her bike, and reading on her Kindle. She is also left-handed.
Dr. Fiamoncini began her academic journey at the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned her bachelor's degree. After completing her undergraduate studies, Dr. Fiamoncini took a gap year to gain hands-on experience in the field of dentistry. She worked as a dental assistant at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in the Oral Surgery and Graduate Prosthodontics Departments, solidifying her passion for dentistry and preparing her for dental school.
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dr. Fiamoncini has developed a strong understanding of the dental school application process. She wishes that she had known about Inspira Advantage when she was applying to dental school, as it would have made the process less daunting and more manageable.
As a mentor, Dr. Fiamoncini is dedicated to helping aspiring dental students achieve their dreams. She breaks down the application process into smaller, manageable steps, ensuring that each student feels supported and confident throughout their journey. Her approach is personalized, insightful, and supportive, drawing from her own experiences as a dental student and practitioner.
General Dentistry, Dental Surgery
Undergrad: Ohio State University
Dental School: Ohio State University College of Dentistry
Dr. Lingenfelter enjoys traveling and has been to every state except Hawaii.
Dr. Lingenfelter's journey in dentistry began with a solid foundation in biology, earning a Bachelor of Science from Ohio State University. She then pursued a DDS at Ohio State University College of Dentistry, where she graduated magna cum laude. Dr. Lingenfelter completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency Program at the Dayton VA Medical Center. This experience allowed her to refine her skills in restorative, fixed, and removable dentistry, enabling her to provide comprehensive and personalized treatment to her patients. As a practicing dentist and a member of the American Dental Association, Dr. Lingenfelter stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field, making sure that her students receive the most current and effective guidance.
Dr. Lingenfelter's passion for mentoring and guiding pre-dental students stems from her own experiences navigating the dental school application process. Having mentored both pre-dental and younger dental students during her time at Ohio State University College of Dentistry, she understands the challenges and opportunities that aspiring dentists face. Her goal is to help students gain confidence and showcase the best version of themselves to dental schools, maximizing their chances of success.
As a counselor, Dr. Lingenfelter recognizes that each student has strengths and challenges. She tailors her support to meet the individual needs of her students, ensuring that they receive personalized guidance throughout the application process. Her ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and adapt her approach accordingly makes her an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to pursue a career in dentistry.
General Dentistry
Undergrad: Nova Southeastern University
Dental School: NYU College of Dentistry
Dr. Zigmond is an active member of the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association.
Dr. Zigmond’s educational journey began at Nova Southeastern University, where she graduated from the undergraduate program with a strong foundation in the sciences. Determined to pursue her dream of becoming a dentist, she made the bold move to New York City, where she enrolled in the prestigious NYU Dental program.
Throughout her time in dental school, Dr. Zigmond discovered her true calling for teaching and mentoring aspiring dentists. She gained invaluable hands-on experience tutoring students in the years below her, which allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the curriculum and the most effective ways to communicate complex concepts. Her ability to adapt to each student's learning style is one of her greatest strengths, as she recognizes that every individual has tailored needs and approaches to learning. Her experience working closely with aspiring dentists has provided her with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities they face on their path to success.
As an educator, Dr. Zigmond is known for her patient and approachable demeanor, which creates a welcoming and supportive learning environment for her students. She takes the time to understand each student's goals and challenges, and works closely with them to develop personalized study plans that maximize their potential for success. Her passion for teaching is evident in the way she goes above and beyond to ensure that her students have the tools and resources they need to excel.
In addition to her work as a tutor and educator, Dr. Zigmond is also a skilled and compassionate dentist. She brings the same level of dedication and attention to detail to her clinical practice, ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality care possible. Her ability to connect with her patients and put them at ease is a testament to her strong interpersonal skills and her commitment to building lasting relationships based on trust and mentorship.
Anika has extensive experience working with diverse student groups, ranging from young children in piano lessons to teenagers in taekwondo and adults in biostatistics classes. This background has honed her ability to challenge and motivate students effectively. Additionally, Anika achieved a perfect score on the chemistry and physics section of the MCAT and possesses a robust foundation in biochemistry.
Undergrad: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
Anika is full of energy, loves to explore, and always welcomes an adventure. She spent her summer after medical school doing research in Peru. When at home, she loves to try new restaurants and cafes with her friends, go on long walks, and settle in with a good book.
Before pursuing her MD at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Anika earned a Bachelor’s in biochemistry from the University of Texas at Austin. She also holds three certificates in Medical Spanish, Business of Healthcare, and Social Inequality, Health, and Policy. She has extensive teaching experience spanning various fields, including providing piano lessons, teaching taekwondo, and serving as a teaching assistant for a biostatistics class.
After achieving a 523 on the MCAT on her first attempt, Anika was inspired to help other students achieve similar success. She prioritizes efficient studying methods to empower students to master the MCAT swiftly and successfully. She embraces challenges and is committed to collaborating closely with her students to guide them toward achievement.
Through her diverse teaching background, Anika excels at adapting to different learning styles and creating customized lesson plans that cater to each student's strengths and weaknesses. Her expertise in chemistry, physics, biology, and biochemistry also equips her with effective strategies to support students across all exam sections. She collaborates closely with her students to develop personalized MCAT study schedules that accommodate their unique needs and other commitments.
Nikola's extensive decade-long tutoring background gives him a nuanced perspective on effectively preparing students for the MCAT and supporting them in achieving high scores.
Undergrad: University of Windsor
Medical School: University of Ottawa
Nikola spends most of his free time playing sports, and his favorite is soccer. He is a massive Manchester United fan and follows many other sports, like Formula 1 and basketball. He also loves music and has been playing the guitar for 15 years. But, more than anything, Nikola loves spending time with his Australian Shepherd, Luna.
Prior to pursuing his MD from the University of Ottawa, Nikola graduated with distinction from the University of Windsor, earning an honors degree in biological sciences and completing an undergraduate thesis in biomedical sciences. At the University of Windsor and the University of Ottawa Medical School, he engaged in impactful research across diverse fields, such as molecular biochemistry, physician health and wellness, and interventional cardiology. He also led the R&D portfolio at Enactus Windsor, spearheading innovative student-led projects, including the nationally recognized Mycolite presented at the 2023 National Enactus Presentations, just two years after its development.
Nikola also served as the Volunteers Coordinator for the Youth Advisory Council at a community hospital in Windsor, connecting thousands of high school students with mental health resources and initiatives throughout the city. His leadership extended to Jack.org, where he was president of the University of Windsor chapter, empowering young leaders to innovate mental health initiatives nationally. Additionally, Nikola brings nearly a decade of tutoring experience across diverse subjects, including leading study groups, tutoring in science and chemistry at the college level, and providing personalized exam help in organic chemistry.
Nikola is dedicated to empowering applicants to reach their full potential and excel on the MCAT, paving the way for their aspirations to become physicians. His robust background in biology, biomedical sciences, and chemistry, coupled with his proven track record in academia, leadership, and mentoring, uniquely qualifies him as an exceptional MCAT tutor.
Nikola’s expertise allows him to effectively guide students through challenging content while fostering efficient study habits and reducing exam-related stress. Additionally, his passion for mental health advocacy ensures a supportive and empathetic approach to helping students achieve their academic goals.
Palak received a perfect score on P/S. She knows biology incredibly well, having tutored it for over six years.
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Palak is a singer-songwriter and spends her free time performing at open mic nights around the city.
During her academic journey, Palak conducted significant research on modeling individual sleep cycles and the efficacy of copper-infused bioactive glass in diabetic wound healing, presenting her findings at national conferences and securing awards for her outstanding presentations.
In the past year, Palak has worked at Boston Children’s Hospital, where she was involved in cutting-edge translational clinical research on inflammatory bowel disease in pediatric patients. This role enabled her to apply her computational and biological expertise in a clinical setting, further honing her analytical and problem-solving skills. Outside of her full-time position, Palak developed an award-winning generative AI-powered application for a hackathon hosted by the National Academy of Medicine, focusing on addressing stigmas and disparities contributing to the STI epidemic.
Palak's approach to MCAT tutoring is deeply informed by her own experience of balancing a full-time work schedule with rigorous preparation. She understands the importance of time management and provides practical strategies to help students efficiently allocate their study time.
As a teaching assistant for Molecular Biology at Northwestern, Palak tutored and mentored pre-med students through office hours and classroom discussions, all of which equipped her with a complex understanding of the foundational knowledge required for the MCAT and expanded her teaching skills. Palak’s role as a senior writer for a student-run scientific publication at Northwestern involved breaking down complex scientific concepts into easily understandable content through analogies and comic-style storytelling techniques, which is a skill that helps her MCAT students grasp difficult subjects and retain information effectively. She also served as the president of both her a cappella team and a regenerative engineering research club, demonstrating her ability to effectively lead and motivate students.
With her extensive research background, strong analytical skills, and compassionate teaching style, Palak is particularly strong in helping students master the hard sciences portions of the MCAT. She is committed to equipping students with the strategies and confidence needed to excel on the MCAT and beyond, ensuring they are well-prepared for their journey to medical school.
Waleed uses analogies and mnemonics to explain complex concepts in a memorable and engaging way.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Medical School: Perelman School of Medicine
Waleed has been weightlifting for over eight years. Aside from hitting the gym, he loves playing volleyball with his friends, exploring niche documentaries, and getting wrapped up in new self-taught endeavors.
Waleed's MCAT tutoring experience spans over six years, with a significant portion of that time spent at NJIT, where he tutored General and Organic Chemistry for three years. This tutoring background has not only helped numerous students but also honed Waleed's ability to explain complex concepts clearly and adapt his teaching style to individual needs. After enrolling at the Perelman School of Medicine, he continued his commitment to tutoring.
Beyond academics, Waleed has accumulated a wealth of clinical and research experience. His involvement in research dates back to high school, demonstrating an early commitment to scientific inquiry. As a certified emergency medical technician (EMT) for nearly six years, he has gained hands-on experience in patient care and emergency response. Additionally, Waleed teaches CPR, further demonstrating his commitment to healthcare education and community service.
As an MCAT tutor, Waleed brings a combination of academic excellence, diverse experiences, and a genuine passion for helping others. His approach is characterized by flexibility and adaptability, allowing him to tailor his methods to each student's individual needs. Waleed's unique trait as a tutor is his use of analogies and mnemonics to explain complex concepts in a memorable and engaging way.
Waleed's passion for tutoring stems from the shared sense of accomplishment that comes from clearing misunderstandings and understanding new concepts. This sense of positivity inspires him to continue tutoring and helping students achieve their academic goals. His greatest strength is his flexibility, which is reflected in his sessions. Even if he is reviewing the same content between two students, the sessions will look completely different. Each individual has their own needs and preferences, and from his years of tutoring, Waleed has become an expert at targeting his sessions accordingly.
With almost half of his life dedicated to general tutoring, Waleed has developed a deep understanding of what makes tutoring effective. He began tutoring in middle school and continued all throughout high school, undergrad, and now even in medical school. During undergrad, he was the lead tutor for the chemistry department.
In his counseling sessions, Waleed approaches each student by understanding their needs and preferences. He checks what each student has covered since they last met, if they have any questions, and then finally, reviews what they look for out of their sessions. Some students want to be quizzed, while others want a review, so Waleed caters his session to help them learn best.
Whether preparing students for the MCAT, guiding them through the complex medical school admissions process, or helping them excel in pre-medical coursework, Waleed is dedicated to bringing out the best in each medical school applicant.
Erika understands what it’s like to be an extremely busy college student and is adept at helping students use their time effectively to maximize their learning and scores.
Undergrad: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
In her free time, Erika loves to knit and crochet.
Erika works in clinical neurosurgery research and is also a certified EMT. AT MIT, she gained extensive research experience in a variety of different fields, conducting cognitive science, molecular biology, and medical device research. She also volunteered in a program where she tutored Boston-area immigrants in order to help them prepare for the US Citizenship Exam.
Students who work with Erika have earned higher MCAT scores and have developed their skills in connecting concepts. She personally excelled at the Biochemical and Biological Foundations of Living Systems section as well as the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section of the MCAT.
Being involved in a wide range of fields has allowed Erika to approach problems from different angles. She brings this expertise and unique perspective to her tutoring to help students learn concepts in new ways. Erika also has experience tutoring ESL, which has given her a good understanding of how to explain concepts from different angles to best help students.
Outside of academics, Erika was a four-year member of the MIT Women's Track and Field team. Being a student-athlete has given her a valuable perspective on balancing time-intensive commitments with academics, and this is a strength in her tutoring strategy. She is skilled at helping students design effective study strategies that will maximize their learning in the amount of study time that they have.
Temi loves tutoring all sections of the MCAT, but he especially enjoys helping students gain confidence in the CARS and Psych/Soc sections, which many find challenging. His biggest claim to fame is his unique tutoring approach, which emphasizes active listening and collaborative problem-solving. Temi is committed to helping students achieve the heights they envision for themselves.
Undergrad: Stanford University
Medical School: University of California, San Diego
Temi is a big soccer guy. He has been playing and watching soccer for as long as he can remember, and he will find any excuse possible to get back on the field. He also enjoys cooking, writing poetry, reading nonfiction novels, and watching documentaries. If you have a cool movie or documentary recommendation, he would love to hear it!
Prior to pursuing his MD at the University of California, San Diego, Temi completed a BA in Human Biology, concentrating in Global Child and Adolescent Mental Health, from Stanford University. While he attended UC San Diego on the full-ride Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship for Inclusive Excellence in Medicine, he was impressively offered full-ride scholarships to 10 other medical schools he applied to!
Collegiate experiences with friends undergoing mental health struggles led Temi toward a career in mental health practice, research, and advocacy. He was even one of 10 scholars selected to participate in the prestigious Global Mental Health Research Fellowship at Columbia University. As a Nigerian immigrant to the United States, he has a foot in both worlds and hopes to serve marginalized populations.
With seven years of tutoring and mentorship experience spanning elementary to university students, Temi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. He scored a 519 on the MCAT, developing a unique study strategy that considerably increased his baseline score. Many of the hundreds of students he has worked with have seen score increases of up to 15 points, leading to admissions at prestigious universities such as Harvard, Columbia, and UNC-Chapel Hill.
Having worked extensively with students with learning and attention difficulties, Temi takes an approach focused on active listening and emotional processing, working with students to develop their executive functioning, agency, and confidence while improving their learning outcomes.
Temi is excited to work alongside you to achieve your goals!
Ayush has tutored and/or coached over 50 students in the MCAT and medical school admission process, with a 100% success rate in helping students achieve their dream MCAT scores and gain admission to medical school!
Undergrad: Drexel University
Medical School: Harvard Medical School
Ayush spends a good portion of his free time exercising and playing sports, including volleyball, rock climbing, and weightlifting. He also loves art and music and previously competed on a semi-professional dance team. He is a big foodie on the path to becoming an amateur chef!
Ayush graduated summa cum laude from Drexel University with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and minors in Art History and Business Administration. At Drexel and Harvard Medical School, Ayush conducted a wide array of research initiatives, leading to various publications and academic conference presentations in molecular biology, ophthalmology, ENT, telemedicine, and AI. He also co-founded the New Jersey chapter of a COVID-19 response organization that fills gaps in healthcare infrastructure with healthcare student volunteers.
Ayush also served as a coordinator for the National Student Response Network, connecting over 300 returning healthcare student volunteers with their local NJ county public health departments, hospitals, and NGOs. Given these experiences, Ayush has a proven track record of success in helping a variety of applicants achieve high test scores and medical school admission. He is also passionate about mentoring applicants in crafting a cohesive and personal story to achieve their dreams of becoming a physician.
Bretton has taught over 1,000 MCAT students. He uses his teaching experience and knowledge as a PhD student at the University Of Michigan Medical School to help students achieve exceptional 15+ point growth.
Undergrad: Concordia College
Bretton is based out of Minnesota, where he was educated on a full-ride scholarship at Concordia College in Minnesota.
As an undergraduate, Bretton pursued a triple science major in neuroscience, chemistry, and biology. This diverse background has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to break down even the most complex MCAT topics into easily understandable concepts, making the test accessible to students from all backgrounds and levels of preparation.
In addition to his academic achievements, Bretton has made contributions to the scientific community. He has represented his college's research output to the state of Minnesota, proving his ability to communicate complex scientific ideas to a broad audience. Furthermore, Bretton was selected to participate in the prestigious Mayo Clinic's Mayo Innovative Scholars Program on behalf of Concordia, a testament to his exceptional abilities as a researcher and innovator.
Currently, Bretton works in a research laboratory, where he conducts groundbreaking studies in the fields of cancer and neuroscience. His hands-on experience in cutting-edge research allows him to provide his students with knowledge of the latest scientific developments and their potential applications to the MCAT. Alongside his research, Bretton is studying for a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, one of the top-ranked programs in the country.
Bretton recognizes that success on the MCAT requires not only a deep understanding of the content but also the development of effective test-taking strategies and the ability to manage stress and anxiety. By working closely with each student to identify their strengths and weaknesses, Bretton creates personalized study plans that maximize their performance on test day. His passion for science, commitment to education, and track record of success make him an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to excel on the MCAT and pursue a career in medicine.
Having a background in chemistry, Kaile is very confident in teaching the Chemical & Physical Foundations of Biological Systems section.
Undergrad: Stanford University
Medical School: University of Virginia School of Medicine
Kaile has sung in choirs for the past fifteen consecutive years and served as the music director of their college a cappella group.
Kaile’s exceptional academic performance at Stanford earned them the prestigious J. E. Wallace Sterling Award for Scholastic Achievement, an honor bestowed upon the top 25 graduating seniors in the School of Humanities and Sciences.
Kaile's passion for teaching and mentoring is evident in their extensive tutoring experience. They have privately tutored college and high school students in general and organic chemistry, helping them grasp complex concepts and succeed in their coursework. They have also worked with the Hume Center for Writing and Speaking at Stanford, tutoring undergraduate and graduate students in essay and technical writing. Through these diverse tutoring experiences, Kaile has developed a versatile skill set and a keen ability to adapt their teaching style to meet the needs of students from various backgrounds and academic disciplines.
With over three years of experience coaching students, Kaile has honed their ability to break down complex subjects, identify areas for improvement, and create personalized study plans that optimize student success. They are committed to helping each student not only achieve their desired MCAT score but also develop a deep understanding of the material and build the confidence necessary to excel in their future medical studies.
Grace has over 10 years of tutoring experience!
Undergrad: Georgetown University
Medical School: University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine
Grace loves to travel in her spare time. She has been to 26 countries!
Grace graduated summa cum laude from Georgetown University with a Bachelor’s degree in biology of global health and Spanish. She received a full-tuition merit scholarship to attend the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine.
While at Georgetown, she worked on research projects in breast cancer, evolutionary medicine, and health disparities in Washington, DC. Her exceptional efforts earned her publications in the Journal of Evolutionary Medicine and Public Health and the American Journal of Pathology, as well as recognition from both the Biology and Spanish departments as a top graduating senior.
She also served as a teaching assistant for the biology department and led a student organization focused on health and medical equity while volunteering as a medical interpreter at a local free clinic. At the University of Chicago, she mentored new and prospective students as an admissions advocacy ambassador and teaching assistant for anatomy.
As an MCAT tutor, Grace excels in the hard sciences portions of the test. She prides herself on her ability to explain difficult concepts and provide strategies to help students overcome challenges. Beyond her expertise in MCAT preparation, Grace has extensive experience supporting pre-med students throughout their journey to medical school. As a student interviewer for medical schools and an application counselor, she has a deep understanding of what admissions committees are looking for and can provide tailored advice to help students craft compelling applications and excel in their interviews.
Maggie has extensive experience tutoring students on the CARS sections of the exam.
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Maggie set up her dad and stepmom. They have now been married for five years.
Maggie is originally from Port Huron, Michigan where she was a National Merit Scholar. She has combined her passion for science with an interest in healthcare disparities, as evidenced by her choice of minor. This interdisciplinary approach to her studies provides her with a specialized perspective on health and medicine.
Maggie's passion for tutoring stems from her passion for education and her desire to help others accomplish their career goals. She knows that for many aspiring physicians, the MCAT is one of the biggest barriers to entry into medical school. She loves to help individuals who may struggle with standardized tests and test anxiety tackle this obstacle and pursue their goals.
As a tutor, Maggie goes beyond simply teaching content. She takes the time to get to know every student and understand their goals and passions. This personalized approach allows her to provide academic support, motivation, and encouragement throughout the challenging pre-medical journey.
Maggie approaches each tutoring session as a collaborative learning environment. She believes that tutoring is most effective when the student is an active participant; there is work that they need to put in both during their session and on their own time. Maggie tailors each session to each student's specific needs to help them get as much as possible out of their tutoring relationship.
What sets Maggie apart as a tutor is her compassion for students and her flexibility. She understands that each student has a lot going on in their life which may impact how much time and energy they can commit to their studying. As such, she is very flexible with students, always willing to adjust the plan based on their changing needs.
Maggie's greatest strengths are her deep understanding of the content tested on the MCAT and the test itself. Her degree in biochemistry has provided her with an understanding of the scientific concepts tested on the MCAT that is deeper than the level tested on the MCAT.
Janvi has tutored students of diverse age ranges in various subjects, so she’s great at adjusting to different topics and learning styles! She also excels at helping students prep for the psych/soc section of the exam!
Undergrad: University of Texas, Dallas
Medical School: UT Southwestern
Janvi is a huge foodie and an expert on the Dallas food scene!
Before pursuing her MD at the UT Southwestern School of Medicine, Janvi earned a Bachelor of Science in health care administration and management from the University of Texas, Dallas. 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. After scoring a 519, she now enjoys guiding others to do the same.
Janvi 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. Her genuine passion for teaching is evident in every tutoring session, where she inspires and supports students on their path to success!
Dhruv served as a teaching assistant for Honors General Physics at Temple University and pursued a minor in chemistry with a focus on organic synthesis.
Undergrad: Temple University
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Dhruv has diverse interests including motorsport, aerospace, travel, and watches. He enjoys rock climbing, biking, exploring local cuisine, and traveling to new destinations.
Dhruv graduated from Temple University with a neuroscience major, a chemistry minor, and a certificate in linguistics. During his time at Temple, Dhruv made significant contributions to platelet research, investigating the molecular basis for abnormal platelet activation in cardiovascular disease. His work has been published in academic journals, and he has undertaken scholarly projects in mathematical modeling, social determinants of health, and particle physics. Dhruv's commitment to research and scientific integrity earned him the prestigious Thermo Fisher Scientific Antibody Scholarship.
Dhruv's passion for scientific discovery and medical innovation is evident in his career goals. He aspires to be at the forefront of medical advancements while working to make quality healthcare accessible to all patient populations. His inquisitive nature and pragmatic approach drive him to find novel solutions to problems in biomedical research and healthcare.
Dhruv's approach to tutoring is personable, insightful, and focused on fostering both comprehension and confidence in aspiring medical students. He is committed to helping each student achieve their full potential and excel in their MCAT preparation. His tutoring style centers on reviewing high-yield content, crafting personalized study schedules, setting performance goals, and providing actionable test day strategies to maximize MCAT scores.
Alex has tutored hundreds of students, including those who crushed the MCAT with a score of 519+.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
Alex has maintained a daily workout routine for eight years and boasts a bench press of 250+ pounds. He enjoys playing the piano, with Debussy’s Clair de Lune being his favorite performance piece.
Alex graduated from the New Jersey Institute of Technology with an impressive 3.99 GPA and a degree in biochemistry. He spent two years tutoring undergraduate general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry at the NJIT Chemistry Learning Center. During this time, he also worked as a medical scribe at the Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Alex's passion for tutoring stems from his belief that mastering a concept is best achieved when you can teach it to someone else. Teaching allows him to deepen his understanding and share his knowledge, and his enthusiasm for helping others succeed grows with each tutoring session. His teaching philosophy focuses on building a strong understanding of fundamental concepts and constructing knowledge from the ground up. By identifying and targeting areas that will most significantly impact his students' performance, Alex ensures their study time is used efficiently.
One of Alex's greatest strengths as a consultant is his ability to concisely convey complex information and adapt to each student's unique learning style. His approach to MCAT preparation is holistic and comprehensive. He emphasizes the importance of both intellectual preparation and physical and mental stamina. His strategy focuses on overall wellness, including exercise, diet, and sleep, to ensure sustainable progress and genuine learning. Alex believes that with a healthy attitude and an effective strategy, anyone can achieve top results.
Alex lays the groundwork for each session at the end of the previous one, with clear goals and expectations established for studying in the interim, with specific learning objectives identified in each meeting. Alex's sessions typically combine guided practice with direct instruction, and he is always willing to provide homework that can be reviewed together, ensuring continuous progress.
Tom has been a collegiate-level STEM peer tutor for over three years and has tutored 200+ students in that time.
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University
Tom enjoys going outdoors on hikes, cooking, or practicing guitar. Regardless of his schedule, Tom is a strong advocate for spending personal time with friends and engaging in hobbies.
Tom’s academic journey began at the University of Georgia Honors College, where he graduated summa cum laude with a major in biological science and minors in biology, biomedical physiology, cell biology, general business, and pharmaceutical science. His experience as a STEM peer tutor during this time helped him hone his teaching skills and deepen his understanding of the complexities of STEM subjects.
Tom's own academic achievements are a testament to his hard work and dedication. He scored an impressive 522 on the MCAT, demonstrating his mastery of exam material. Building on this success, Tom has gone on to work with numerous students as an MCAT tutor, helping them prepare for and succeed on their own exams.
As a tutor, Tom excels in several areas of the MCAT, including the Bio/Biochem and Psych/Soc sections. His approach is centered on creating personalized study plans that cater to each student's strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. By doing so, he empowers students to tackle the challenges of the MCAT with confidence and achieve their desired scores.
With his exceptional academic background, tutoring experience, and passion for helping others, Tom is well-positioned to guide aspiring medical students through the complexities of the MCAT prep process. His approach is supportive, insightful, and tailored to each student's needs, ensuring that they receive the guidance necessary to increase their MCAT scores.
With his medical education, Justin excels at tutoring the Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems and the Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems sections.
Undergrad: Duke University
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine
Justin is a huge soccer fan and always finds time every weekend to watch his favorite team, Manchester City.
Justin's passion for mentoring students stems from his own experiences of being surrounded by wonderful mentors at every stage of his career. He wants to return the favor to other students and finds it incredibly gratifying to see them grow and progress.
As a tutor, Justin leverages his MD/PhD training to approach problems and content from two different perspectives. He employs strategies of frequent repetition and drilling, along with a slower, more methodical approach to understanding content, reflecting both MD and PhD training styles.
In his tutoring sessions, Justin emphasizes practice problems and a review of those problems. He believes that content review is vital for MCAT success, but the value of having a tutor does not come from just lecturing students. Instead, tutors should explain confusing or troubling content in the context of practice questions, making the content more meaningful and relevant to the student's needs.
Justin's greatest strength as a tutor is his ability to keep tutoring plans simple. He centers his approach around one key principle: practice as much as possible. By encouraging students to consistently practice problems, they become much more prepared for whatever test day throws at them.
Grace received a 132 on the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section of the MCAT.
Undergrad: Dartmouth College
Grace is fluent in French and is a passionate francophile.
During her undergraduate years, Grace worked part-time in an epidemiology lab at the Dartmouth Cancer Center, which sparked her interest in cancer research. This passion led her to pursue a full-time role as a research technician at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where she studies pediatric brain tumor mutations. Grace is committed to becoming an oncologist and is driven by her enthusiasm for cancer research.
Grace’s success on the MCAT reflects her mastery of the material and her ability to develop effective study strategies. She aims to use her experience to help other students excel on the MCAT and beyond. She has a broad background in tutoring students of all ages, with a particular focus on supporting students with learning disabilities. Having completed the medical school application process and the MCAT, Grace offers fresh, firsthand insight and advice to those navigating the same path.
Brandon has helped around 500 students get into medical school through tutoring.
Undergrad: University of Charleston
Medical School: Texas Tech Health Science Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine
Brandon has 2 puppies (Quinlan and Luca). They are Italian Water Dogs but do not like to go in the water.
Brandon's academic journey began at the University of Charleston in West Virginia, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in biology while playing Division 1 Men's Volleyball. His exceptional achievements, both in academics and athletics, were recognized when he was selected as the President's Outstanding Senior of the Year.
Brandon's approach to MCAT preparation is characterized by his comprehensive understanding of the exam's content and structure. This knowledge allows him to craft personalized study plans that are tailored to each student's individual strengths and areas for improvement. His teaching methodology goes beyond mere content mastery, placing a strong emphasis on developing strategic test-taking skills that enable students to confidently navigate the complexities of the MCAT.
What truly distinguishes Brandon as an MCAT tutor is his commitment to creating a supportive learning environment. He is dedicated to growing a deep understanding of core concepts while simultaneously nurturing critical thinking skills. Through his collaborative and targeted tutoring approach, Brandon empowers aspiring medical professionals to reach their full potential and excel in the highly competitive landscape of medical school admissions.
Brandon's success as an MCAT tutor is evident in the achievements of students that he’s worked with. His ability to combine content knowledge with test-taking strategies, all within a supportive learning framework, has proven to be a winning formula for MCAT preparation. His dedication to his students' success extends beyond just achieving high scores; he aims to build confidence and develop skills that will serve his students well throughout their medical education and careers.
Students that Keane has tutored have seen an average score increase of almost 10 points!
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Keane loves running and cheering on his favorite team, the Philadelphia Eagles!
Keane's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the laboratory. As a clinical research associate at Ronald Reagan Hospital, he played an important role in improving the care of Code Stroke patients as a member of the Student Stroke Team. This hands-on experience in a clinical setting provided him with insights into the healthcare field and the importance of delivering high-quality care to patients. Currently conducting molecular toxicology research in the Allard Lab Group, Keane's focus is on the impact of environmental toxicants on behavior in C. elegans.
In addition to his academic and research pursuits, Keane served as a camp counselor for Camp Kesem, where he mentored children affected by a parent's cancer. This role allowed him to develop strong mentorship skills and a deep understanding of the importance of providing support and guidance to those in need.
As an MCAT tutor, Keane draws from his own experiences and strategies that led him to score in the 99th percentile on the exam. He positions students in the perfect direction after every session. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with the MCAT, Keane is committed to helping students find success and achieve their dreams of attending their desired medical schools.
Sam has taught/tutored in a wide variety of settings, including undergrad chemistry and biology, high school science classes and entrance exams, and martial arts, in addition to the MCAT.
Undergrad: Point Loma Nazarene University
If there's one thing Sam could eat for the rest of his life, it would be Korean Barbeque.
Sam graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biology from Point Loma Nazarene University, where he not only achieved academic excellence but also demonstrated strong leadership potential, earning him the prestigious Rising Alumni Award. During his time at Point Loma, Sam participated in extensive research focusing on the interaction between tumor-associated macrophages and glioblastoma cell lines. He also excelled in collegiate debate, garnering national ranking, and served as an RA.
Sam’s range of teaching experiences, including roles as a martial arts instructor, debate coach judge, and tutor, allow him to connect with students and guide them through complex subjects. Central to Sam's teaching philosophy is the idea of forming a partnership with his students rather than simply maintaining a traditional tutor-student relationship. He understands that preparing for the MCAT can be an overwhelming process and strives to provide guidance, support, and empowerment to help students perform their best.
Aside from academics, Sam considers himself a jack-of-all-trades, having dabbled in many hobbies throughout his life. Some of his interests include martial arts (achieving a first-degree black belt in taekwondo), playing guitar and piano, producing and performing music, DJing, playing video games, photography, video, and YouTube content creation, playing basketball, and dominating in Wii Sports.
Suhas has tutored hundreds of students; he knows the chemistry, physics, and biology/biochemistry sections inside out.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Graduate School: New Jersey Institute of Technology
In his free time, Suhas loves to play soccer and volleyball, and lift weights.
Suhas’ combined BS in biology and MBA at the New Jersey Institute of Technology allowed him to excel in both scientific and business-related disciplines. He serves as an EMT for two different EMS squads, holding a leadership position as a sergeant in one of them. Additionally, he is actively involved in three pre-health clubs, serving as either the president or a board member. He has accumulated 2,000 clinical hours and over 1,200 hours of research experience with triple-negative breast cancer research.
In addition to his research on triple-negative breast cancer, Suhas has collaborated with leading orthopedic surgeons in the country, devoting hundreds of hours to orthopedic surgery research aimed at improving surgical outcomes. This experience not only showcases his passion for advancing medical care but also highlights his ability to work effectively with experienced professionals in the field.
As an MCAT tutor, Suhas leverages his extensive knowledge, research experience, and clinical background to provide comprehensive, tailored guidance to his students. He understands the challenges that aspiring medical school students face and works diligently to help them develop the skills and strategies necessary to succeed on the MCAT. His ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, combined with his patient and supportive teaching style, creates a positive learning environment that encourages students to push themselves and reach their full potential.
Suhas’ greatest strength is his flexibility when it comes to teaching speed, style, approach, and strategy. He understands that different students learn differently, and he doesn’t try to force strategies that don't feel natural to the student. Instead, Suhas keeps an open mind and works with students to find the best way to tackle the problem that is intuitive to the way they analyze questions. He also uses as many analogies, stories, acronyms, and real-life examples as he can to ensure that the content is remembered.
Ben has a study plan that can maximize time and effort, as evidenced by the fact that he was able to jump from a 20 AA to a 26 AA in under two months. He also has extensive experience in tutoring General Chemistry at the undergraduate level, as he tutored for three semesters at the University of Kentucky, where each class had well over 100 students.
Undergrad: The University of Kentucky
Dental School: The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry
Ben grew up on a family farm in Shearer Valley, Kentucky, where they raised grass-fed cattle and grew corn and soybeans. The farm has been in the family for over 100 years!
Ben scored an impressive 26 AA and 26 Total Science on his own DAT, including a perfect 30 in Reading Comprehension. Remarkably, he achieved these scores with just over two months of studying. His success is a testament to the effectiveness of his personalized study game plan.
Ben specializes in Reading Comprehension and Natural Sciences, particularly General Chemistry. His perfect reading score and high science scores are a result of his strategic study methods and his experience in both learning and teaching chemistry at his undergraduate institution.
Ben understands that each student has unique strengths and challenges. By working closely with students, he tailors their study plans to enhance their performance. His tutoring experience, although just over a year, has consistently led to score increases for his students on the actual DAT compared to their practice tests.
Ben’s study plan emphasizes three key elements: personalization, balance, and volume. He helps students understand that excelling on the DAT requires more than just content knowledge; it often involves adjusting personal study habits. Ben crafts individualized study schedules that maximize the efficiency of the study programs his students use.
In addition to tutoring the DAT, Ben has extensive experience tutoring undergraduate general chemistry. His background in education equips him to work with students from various backgrounds. With Inspira Advantage, Ben aims to expand his reach and help more prospective candidates achieve their academic goals.
Ben is committed to helping students tailor their studying to perform their best on test day. He looks forward to working with everyone at Inspira and guiding students toward their desired DAT scores.
Dr. Chauhan has been tutoring for 12 years and has worked with over 200 students.
Undergrad: University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana
Dental School: New York University College of Dentistry
Dr. Chauhan is passionate about art and design and has leveraged these skills into clinical practice. She participates in various art forms including, drawing, painting, and ceramics. She also loves to explore the great outdoors and visit every national park in the country.
Dr. Chauhan graduated from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana with a BS in molecular biology. After this, she matriculated to the New York University College of Dentistry and earned a DDS.
As a general dentist for over six years, Dr. Chauhan developed a strong foundation in patient care, empathy, and communication. During this time, she also discovered her passion for tutoring and mentorship. Her tutoring experience spans a wide range of areas, including DAT prep, dental coursework, and clinical skills.
Dr. Chauhan's expertise in helping aspiring dental students prepare for their exams and navigate the application process is particularly noteworthy. As a top 1% DAT scorer, she understands precisely how to help students succeed. Her tailored approach to tutoring has led to significant improvements in student performance, with one standout story involving a student whose biology section score jumped from 20 percentile points with Dr. Chauhan’s expertise.
Dr. Chauhan's strong sense of empathy, excellent communication skills, and love for collaboration, combined with her commitment to service, enable her to approach challenges with a unique perspective focused on each student’s needs.
Whether she's mentoring aspiring dental students or designing user interfaces, Dr. Chauhan's commitment to service, hard work, and empathy shines through in everything she does. Her diverse background and passion for helping others make her an incredible asset for students ready to ace the DAT.
Mekkhi’s extensive tutoring experience has made breaking down complex concepts second nature to him. He has never worked with a student who has not markedly improved under his guidance!
Undergrad: Villanova University
Dental School: Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Mekkhi has wanted to be a dentist since he was five years old! Outside of dentistry, he enjoys board games, fitness, and any activity involving nature.
Before pursuing his DDS at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, Mekkhi earned his Bachelor of Science from Villanova University. His academic pursuits, involvement in extracurricular activities, and professional experiences have refined his interpersonal skills, adaptability, and insatiable curiosity. Currently, he is a dental intern at Chesterbrook Dental Associates.
For the past seven years, Mekkhi has been an active tutor. He spent three years tutoring at his church and continued peer tutoring across various subjects in college. Specializing in DAT tutoring, he has developed a strong ability to support students individually and in groups. Mekkhi firmly believes in the power of persistence for every student to reach their dream schools. He is dedicated to providing personalized guidance and support, ensuring that students excel in the DAT and achieve their academic aspirations.
As a tutor, Mekkhi excels in pinpointing students' areas of difficulty and addressing them directly. His approach involves breaking down complex concepts into understandable parts and effectively transforming weaknesses into strengths. Through targeted strategies, he ensures that students not only grasp challenging material but also gain confidence in their abilities to master it.
Jasmina knows all the current intricacies and issues one might face when taking the test. She knows the Reading Comprehension section like the back of her hand, as indicated by her perfect score in that section.
Undergrad: St. Petersburg College
Dental School: University of Florida College of Dentistry
Beyond Jasmina’s academic achievements, she is enamored with the arts. She enjoys painting, attending concerts (especially metal shows), and is a self-proclaimed movie nerd.
Jasmina's journey to dentistry began 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 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 her 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.
Astha has over four years of DAT tutoring experience, specializing in the QR and RC sections.
Undergrad: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Dental School: Boston University School of Dental Medicine
Astha loves to spend time by the water while listening to music. She also loves dancing, watching sports, and finding new sweet treats as a celebration for little things.
During her undergraduate and dental school career, Asstha has mentored students in their transition into rigorous curriculums while working as a Peer Mentor and Matriculation Ambassador. Her genuine desire to see others succeed stems from having personally experienced the power of mentorship. Her interpersonal communication skills and ability to give honest and helpful advice truly shine in her past experiences. Astha is committed to paying it forward and empowering the next generation of dental professionals.
As a tutor, Astha possesses a deep understanding of the DAT's nuances and works tirelessly to equip students with the necessary skills to excel on the test. Beyond the tangible improvements in test scores, the real success lies in the transformation of students' mindset and approach to learning. Through collaborative efforts, students Astha has tutored have developed a deeper understanding of the material and a newfound sense of self-assurance. Armed with this knowledge and confidence, they've not only conquered the DAT but also embraced the challenges of dental school with enthusiasm and resilience.
Astha excels at tailoring her lessons to target specific areas for improvement, whether it involves simplifying intricate concepts, refining critical thinking abilities, or perfecting time management strategies to ensure that each student receives tailored support and guidance every step of the way. As a result, students Ashta has tutored have not only achieved higher scores but also gained confidence in their abilities. Many of them are now thriving in dental programs, a testament to the transformative power of focused tutoring!
Astha is deeply invested in her students’ success. She finds it incredibly rewarding to see students not only achieve their academic goals but also flourish as confident, capable professionals in the field of dentistry!
Ahmad’s social skills and articulation of given topics are his strong suit, which is exemplified by the perfect score he got in the reading section of the exam.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Outside of his academic pursuits, Ahmad enjoys lifting weights, reading about philosophy, and spending quality time with his family. Although English is his first language, he is also fluent in Arabic.
His academic excellence has been evident from a young age, as demonstrated by his impressive SAT score of 1520, placing him in the top 1% of the country, and his graduation from grade school with full honors and a 4.2 GPA. These achievements earned him acceptance into the prestigious Honors College at NJIT with a full scholarship. Ahmad's dedication and hard work paid off when he scored an impressive 24 on the DAT, placing him in the top 5% overall on his first attempt. His perfect score of 30 in the "reading comprehension" section further highlights his exceptional abilities and deep understanding of the subject matter.
As a tutor, Ahmad excels in helping his students fully grasp complex topics while maintaining a focus on performing well in exam settings. His greatest strength lies in his ability to simplify complicated subjects and straightforwardly explain them, making even the most daunting concepts accessible to his students. His most effective study strategies involve answering and reviewing practice questions, allowing students to apply their acquired knowledge in realistic scenarios and gain valuable experience for the exam. He also emphasizes the importance of communication and encourages his students to ask questions, as he is enthusiastic and articulate in assisting with difficult topics and clearing up any misconceptions or confusion.
Ahmad's professionalism, understanding nature, and eagerness to take every measure to ensure his students' success set him apart as a tutor. He is dedicated to helping his students achieve their goals and is committed to providing them with the tools and support they need to excel. His commitment to giving back to his community is evident through his role as the vice president of a charity organization on his campus, where he demonstrates his empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by others.
Thomas has a profound mastery of the organic chemistry section of the DAT, scoring a perfect score of 30, which is often considered one of the most challenging areas for students.
Undergrad: NJIT
In his free time, Thomas enjoys woodworking with his dad. He also loves playing basketball and spikeball with his friends.
Thomas has gathered hundreds of hours shadowing various dentists and oral surgeons, working as a dental assistant, and engaging in neurocognitive research. This hands-on experience complements his academic skills, providing a well-rounded foundation for his tutoring approach.
Thomas excels in creating customized tutoring strategies that cater to the individual learning styles and paces of his students. He focuses on building strong, supportive relationships, and fostering an environment that encourages open communication and trust. His tutoring sessions are dynamic and interactive, designed to not only cover test materials comprehensively but also to develop critical thinking skills essential for the DAT and future dental studies.
His ability to simplify complex concepts, combined with his commitment to providing holistic support, ensures that each student not only improves their DAT scores but also gains a deeper understanding and appreciation of the material. Through Thomas's guidance, many of his students have not only excelled on the DAT but have also learned how to be well-rounded applicants, equipped with the confidence and skills needed to succeed in their future careers.
What sets Alex apart from other tutors is that she takes a personalized approach with each student, making sure to meet their unique educational needs.
Undergrad: UCLA
Dental School: Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Alex is half Japanese and attended Japanese Language School for 10 years when she was younger!
Before attending the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Alex graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor’s in molecular, cell & developmental biology. Her passion extends beyond dentistry into community engagement, particularly working with underserved populations. She has dedicated her post-doctoral career to becoming a National Health Service Corps Scholar, demonstrating her commitment to providing quality healthcare to those in need.
Alex honed her practical skills as a dental and surgical assistant in both private and community clinics, gaining hands-on experience that has further enriched her understanding of the dental field. She was also a pre-dental mentor and student ambassador at UCLA, and wants to use those experiences to help others achieve their goals of getting into dental school.
One of Alex's greatest strengths as a tutor is her broad range of experiences, which have equipped her with an ornate perspective on the dental profession. Additionally, her years of experience as a tutor for the SAT and DAT have enabled her to support students from diverse educational backgrounds in achieving their academic goals.
Alex's dedication to students' success is evident in her personalized approach to tutoring. Whether it's providing additional resources, simplifying complex concepts, or offering encouragement and support, Alex is committed to giving every student the confidence they need to excel on the DAT.
Dr. Bontha specializes in helping students with the DAT and navigating the field of dentistry.
Undergrad: University of Texas at Dallas
Dental School: LECOM School of Dental Medicine
Dr. Bontha has lived in 26 different places around the world and can speak five languages fluently.
Dr. Bontha has a genuine passion for teaching. She has dedicated over two years to volunteering as an educator, tutoring a wide range of subjects, including math, chemistry, biochemistry, and English. Driven by her unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their dreams of becoming dentists, Dr. Bontha enthusiastically shares her knowledge and experiences in the field. She possesses a deep understanding of the challenges faced by aspiring dentistry students during the admissions process. She is motivated to provide them with the guidance and support they need to succeed.
As a highly sought-after tutor for the DAT, Dr. Bontha offers personalized instruction that combines her expertise in dentistry with proven teaching strategies. Her dedication to fostering independent thinking empowers her students to approach challenges with confidence and insight. The marked improvement in students' critical thinking abilities and expanded knowledge base serve as shining examples of her effectiveness as a tutor, leaving a lasting impact on their academic journey.
Herchel can do biology in his sleep.
Undergrad: University of Georgia
Dental School: University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Herchel is an avid book reader and loves to play various sports. He is especially interested in Ultimate Frisbee and basketball. Herchel also loves to watch movies and TV shows, with his favorites being Harry Potter and the Marvel series.
Herchel's journey to dental school is rooted in his upbringing in a small town in Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia for his undergraduate studies, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Biology. Demonstrating his exceptional academic abilities, he graduated Summa Cum Laude from UGA in just 2.5 years.
During his time at UGA, Herchel was involved in research projects that demonstrated his passion for advancing dental science. He researched S. mutans, exploring how nanoparticles can be used to inhibit the progression of dental caries. He also analyzed the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on various countries. After careful consideration of a pool of six options, he decided to pursue a dental degree at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.
Herchel's approach to tutoring is centered on empowering students to become the best applicants they can be. He works closely with each individual, identifying their strengths and areas for improvement, and develops personalized study plans to help them achieve their goals. His patience, empathy, and genuine passion for teaching make him an invaluable mentor and guide for aspiring dental students navigating the challenging path to dental school.
Following his graduation, Herchel had the opportunity to contribute to the construction of the second-largest Hindu Temple in the world, Akshardham, located in Robbinsville, NJ.
Nathan has a quick crash course method that can quickly transform someone with no background into a DAT expert.
Undergrad: Ave Maria University
If Nathan hadn't pursued dentistry, he believes he would be working in a nuclear sub under Antarctica right now.
Nathan's approach to DAT preparation is centered on developing a personalized, time-sensitive game plan that focuses on learning, understanding, and mastering the exam content. He works closely with his students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, creating a tailored study strategy that optimizes their time and effort.
Nathan's greatest strength lies in his ability to develop strategies tailored to each student's needs, focusing on mastering the DAT itself. He specializes in helping students navigate difficult test subsections and suggesting test-taking strategies to maximize their performance.
One of Nathan's main areas of expertise is quantitative reasoning, a section he studied extensively during his undergraduate years. He is particularly adept at helping students tackle challenging test subsections and providing valuable insights on effective test-taking strategies. By sharing his own experiences and the techniques that led to his success, Nathan empowers his students to approach the DAT with confidence and skill. Any student who feels behind and overwhelmed in their DAT preparations can find a helping hand from Nathan. He has been there before, he has succeeded, and he looks forward to helping students do the same.
Students Saad has tutored have had an average score increase of three points.
Undergrad: New Jersey Institute of Technology
Dental School: Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
When not tutoring, Saad enjoys watching anime, with "Naruto" being his top pick. He appreciates the show's emphasis on teamwork, perseverance, and overcoming obstacles, which he incorporates into his tutoring approach. Saad is also an entrepreneur with a passion for selling shoes. This venture allows him to stay updated on trends, understand market dynamics, and connect with a community of similar interests.
Saad has studied at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), where he pursued a major in biology as part of the seven-year accelerated program in collaboration with the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. His passion for the sciences is matched by his hands-on experience in the field. For the past three years, he has been an integral part of a dental clinic team, gaining invaluable clinical experience. Furthermore, his recent interest in oral surgery research has culminated in the publication of his first paper in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, titled "Assessing the Efficacy of Allogeneic Nerve Grafts in Trigeminal Nerve Repair: A Systematic Review." This achievement not only highlights his commitment to advancing dental medicine but also his ability to contribute meaningful research to the field.
In addition to his clinical and research endeavors, Saad has been a dedicated tutor for the past several years as a chemistry tutor. His teaching method centers around making complex concepts accessible and engaging. As for the DAT, his students' scores ranged impressively from 22 to a remarkable 27. Saad has a particular knack for breaking down the complexities of organic chemistry, a subject notorious for its difficulty among students. By breaking down reactions into understandable steps and drawing them out, he helps students grasp the underlying mechanisms. In biology, he employs fun mnemonics, making memorization and understanding more enjoyable and effective.
Saad's strengths lie not only in his deep understanding of the subjects he teaches but also in his personalized approach to tutoring. He believes that every student has unique learning needs and tailors his teaching strategies to meet these needs, fostering a supportive and encouraging learning environment.