Your Expert, Guide, Cheerleader, Friend

Dr. Vallarelli has built a career shaped by diversity, resilience, and a genuine love for animals and people. Her experience spans general and mixed animal practice, zoo medicine, equine specialty hospitals, and behavioral research, including time working with elephants at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Thanks to LMU’s distributive clinical model, she trained across the U.S., working in over a dozen veterinary clinics and hospitals while travelling solo with her dog and cat. She has also worked as a server for nearly a decade, held down two jobs during veterinary school, and relocated to Hawaii on her own after graduation.

During vet school, Dr. Vallarelli served as Vice President of the Veterinary Business Management Association and led social media strategy for LMU’s AVMA Student Chapter. But beyond leadership titles and academic achievements, she’s most proud of staying grounded and helping others along the way.

As a consultant, Dr. Vallarelli brings both sharp insight and sincere encouragement to the table. She understands that vet school admissions are about more than just perfect grades or hours of experience—it’s about showing who you are and why you belong in this profession. She has a gift for helping students find their authentic voice, highlight their strengths, and tell their story with clarity and confidence. Dr. Vallarelli meets students where they are in the application process, helps them figure out next steps, and ensures each applicant submits a standout application.

Dr. Oyenuga demonstrates exceptional leadership abilities, teaching expertise, and talent for consulting healthcare practices. She graduated with a DMD from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine after completing a BA in history at Union College. Dr. Oyenuga also holds an MS in biomedical sciences from the Rutgers School of Biomedical Sciences and is currently pursuing an MBA from Baruch College Zicklin School of Business. She also completed a general practice residency to further enhance her clinical skills. 

Dr. Oyenuga participated in the American Dental Association (ADA) Institute for Diversity in Leadership, a one-year program aimed at improving leadership skills for dentists from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. She is also an active member of the Faculty Leadership Institute at NYU College of Dentistry's Center for Oral Health Policy and Management. She has made significant contributions to improving access to oral healthcare for underserved communities, notably by establishing a mobile clinic in collaboration with the Manny Cantor Center, supervising third and fourth-year dental students.

As a coach, Dr. Oyenuga’s friendly and approachable personality allows her to build long-term rapport with applicants. She takes a structured approach to admissions counseling, ensuring key milestones are met with clear plans and step-by-step guidance. 

Dr. Okeke attended Vanderbilt University, where he earned a BA in neuroscience. There, he worked as a tour guide, spending time with admissions counselors and learning more about the process. Following graduation, he spent two years as a clinical trials coordinator in the neurology department at Vanderbilt Medical Center working on trials dedicated to neurodegenerative disorders, which further affirmed his decision for a career in medicine.

Dr. Okeke has published research on the indirect effects of racial discrimination on brain white matter and was a Symposium Speaker at the Society of Biological Psychiatry Conference, where he discussed the mediation between prefrontal white matter integrity, racial discrimination, and health outcomes. He plans to subspecialize in vascular neurology (stroke medicine) to gain expertise in the evaluation, management, and treatment of acute vascular emergencies, as well as better expertise in supporting neurorecovery and neurorehabilitation in the post-stroke period.

Dr. Okeke's research interests are primarily focused on traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury, with a particular emphasis on the recovery process. He aims to continue researching implantable devices that can aid rehabilitation and improve patients' quality of life.

As a prior medical school student interviewer, Dr. Okeke brings expert insights into what admissions committees look for in applicants. He emphasizes the importance of crafting a compelling application narrative, focusing on threading different traits and strengths, especially for applicants with lower GPAs or test scores.

Dr. Okeke's approach to mentoring is empathetic, compassionate, and solution-oriented. As a person from a group underrepresented in medicine, he understands the challenges applicants face. He is passionate about making the daunting medical school process more accessible while instilling confidence in students.

With his combination of academic excellence, research experience, and commitment to diversity in medicine, Dr. Okeke is prepared to guide aspiring medical students through every step of their application journey. His dedication to helping students reach their fullest potential makes him a great source of knowledge and support for those navigating the path to a career in medicine.

Dr. Obanor began his higher education journey at Duke University, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a focus on biochemistry. During college, he was recognized on the Dean’s List at Trinity College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Obanor went on to receive his MD from Meharry Medical College, earning the Chauncey O. Daugherty, M.D. Award and the Timothy Simon/Timothy Sherwood Shaw NBC Inc. Scholarship. 

Currently, Dr. Obanor is a staff psychiatrist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, with clinical academic affiliations at the University of California, Riverside, the University of California,  Irvine, and Charles R. Drew University. His professional interests span behavioral economics, social philosophy, trauma, cultural competency, substance use, social determinants of health, and outreach to at-risk communities. Dr. Obanor’s commitment to equitable mental health care is rooted in his training experiences with underserved and marginalized populations. He has authored research on topics such as narcissism in medical training, with his work featured in Fortune Journals.

As a coach, Dr. Obanor leverages his personal journey as an underrepresented minority in medicine to guide students through the complexities of the admissions process. He excels at crafting individualized admissions strategies that highlight each applicant’s passions and experiences, using a flexible and holistic approach. With years of coaching experience, he has helped students gain acceptance to institutions such as Meharry Medical College, Wake Forest University, Duke University, UNC, Ohio State University, and others. 

Dr. Obanor is adept at working with students from a multitude of backgrounds. He takes pride in identifying key strengths and weaknesses to create a personalized plan that governs the overall approach to the application process. Dr. Obanor is eager to partner with students from all walks of life to enlighten their personal journey in medicine and subsequently achieve their career goals.

Dr. Cohen began his education at the University of Florida, where he graduated from the Honors Program. He is also a proud University of Pennsylvania Dental School graduate and he pursued his dental AEGD residency through NYU in Hawaii, where he spent his free time swimming, hiking, and falling off his surfboard.

Dr. Cohen's approach to mentoring is centered on empowering students and providing them with the support and guidance they need to navigate the complex and often overwhelming dental admissions process. He understands that each student's journey is unique, and he works diligently to ensure that his students feel supported every step of the way, from crafting compelling personal statements to selecting the right schools, preparing for interviews, and everything in between.

Many students have even been awarded the highly competitive military HSPS scholarship and have gone on to match into their dream residencies. Dr. Cohen's meticulous and organized approach to mentoring has been instrumental in helping his students navigate the admissions process and optimize their chances of success. In addition to his experience as a dental school mentor, Dr. Cohen has a background in writing tutoring, having served as a mentor throughout high school and college.

Dr. Cohen’s passion for dentistry and oral health is evident in his approach to patient care, and he brings that same enthusiasm to his mentoring. He is approachable, readily available to answer questions, and committed to providing his students with the guidance and support they need to succeed.

Dr. Salcedo obtained his Bachelor’s in biology and chemistry from Montclair State University with a perfect 4.0 GPA. He was named Valedictorian with the highest major GPA in the College of Mathematics and Sciences. Dr. Salcedo earned his MD from Rutgers Medical School via the BS/MD program with a High Pass distinction. 

He then trained in internal medicine at Pennsylvania State University in Hershey Park. Following this, Pablo worked at Veterans Affairs, where some of his research efforts included pulmonary rehabilitation in war veterans and understanding causal factors for 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.

Dr. Salcedo has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his academic career, including being named a Bill and Melinda Gates Millennium Scholar, United Health Foundation Scholar through the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, National Elk Foundation Scholar (ranked 1st in NJ and 6th nationally out of 20,000 participants), and a Kentucky Fried Chicken Scholar (1 of 20 recipients nationwide).

Dr. Salcedo has been with the FDA's Division of Applied Regulatory Science for three years, where he designs, executes, and analyzes FDA-led clinical studies for topics such as ECG biomarkers and opioid safety. Before joining the FDA, he was a contractor for Booz Allen Hamilton for three years, serving as a research scientist for the National Evaluation of Health Technology (NEST), an initiative of CDRH's Medical Device Innovation Consortium, where he oversaw real-world evidence test cases for medical devices. 

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, building their confidence, improving their overall academic profiles, and writing stellar personal statements. He has assisted 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.

After graduating from medical school at the University of Massachusetts, she moved to Los Angeles for her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. During her residency, she developed a deep interest in complex vaginal surgery and pelvic floor disorders. She pursued a three-year fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, known for its dual-specialty training in both Urology and Obstetrics and Gynecology. 

Throughout her career, Dr. Samimi has demonstrated a strong commitment to research and quality improvement. Over the past decade, she has authored multiple publications focused on quality improvement and peri-operative care, contributing to the advancement of her specialty and patient care.

In addition to her clinical and research achievements, Dr. Samimi has extensive experience working with medical students and junior physicians. She takes pride in her ability to be detail-oriented, punctual, and enjoys motivating others to reach their goals. As a mentor and advisor, she is dedicated to providing guidance and support to help aspiring medical professionals navigate the challenges of medical school and residency.

With her combination of expertise, research experience, and passion for mentoring, Dr. Samimi is an invaluable resource for students and junior physicians seeking to excel in their medical careers. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to inspire and motivate others make her an ideal advisor for those pursuing a path in medicine.

Dr. Diaz graduated with a  BS in biochemistry from San Francisco State University, where he was a multiple-time Dean’s List honoree and recipient of the CSU-Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Award. He also won awards for research presentations, including 1st Place in Life Science at Personalized Medicine 9.0 and 3rd Place at the COSE Student Project Showcase.

Dr. Diaz is a graduate of the CDU/UCLA Medical Education Program, where he earned his MD and was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society in recognition of his compassion, leadership, and service. He was awarded a full cost-of-attendance scholarship through the LA Care Medical Scholarship.

Following medical school, Dr. Diaz completed a urology residency at the University of California, San Francisco, and spent his preliminary medicine year at the California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC). Dr. Diaz plans to complete a diagnostic radiology residency at Stanford University. His successful transition between two top-ranked specialties gives him rare insight into reapplying, specialty switching, and strategic application planning, particularly in urology and radiology.

He completed a competitive research fellowship at the University of Miami as a Miami Andrology Research Scholar, where he managed multiple clinical trials and contributed to over 20 peer-reviewed publications. Throughout his higher education journey, his scholarship has been recognized with numerous national awards, including an AUA Poster Award, a Diversity in Medicine Conference Poster Award, and two visiting student scholarships from the University of Michigan.

Dr. Diaz has supported applicants accepted to many medical institutions, including UCLA, Charles R. Drew, UC Davis, the University of Miami, Boston University, Cornell, USC, and Oakland University William Beaumont (OUWB). 

Over the years, Dr. Diaz has mentored many students through both medical school and residency admissions, helping them refine personal statements, optimize their applications, and excel in interview preparation. As a coach, Dr. Diaz takes a personalized approach, focusing on understanding each student’s motivations, challenges, and goals. He believes every applicant has a compelling story rooted in their life experiences, and he works closely with them to help them uncover and confidently articulate their authentic narrative. 

As a first-generation American, college graduate, and physician, he understands firsthand how intimidating and opaque the journey into medicine can seem. His mission is to help students succeed in the current admissions cycle and equip them with the tools, mindset, and confidence needed to thrive throughout their medical careers. Dr. Diaz’s central mission is to pay forward the support he received by fostering a new generation of accomplished but also compassionate and purpose-driven physicians.

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. Throughout his medical career, he has also published manuscripts and presented his work at both national and international conferences.

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 and residency application process. He understands the challenges of these rigorous application processes and excels at breaking them down into manageable steps. Dr. Patel has always enjoyed working with students, and his approach focuses on helping applicants convey their motivations and highlight their individual achievements.

Dr. Mathelier holds a Bachelor's degree in psychology from Harvard University, with a specialization in social and cognitive neuroscience and a minor in global health & health policy. After completing her undergraduate studies, she earned an MD/MBA from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the UCLA Anderson School of Management.

Throughout her academic career, Dr. Mathelier has demonstrated a strong commitment to research, neuroscience, and global health. During her time at Harvard, she conducted impactful studies at institutions such as the Pasteur Institute in Paris and the Neurodevelopmental Phenotyping Program at Boston Children's Hospital. Additionally, she has worked with NGOs to improve healthcare access in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, missions she continued during her gap year. This dedication to serving underserved communities remained a central focus during her time at medical school, as proven by her involvement in the Charles Drew UCLA Program, her research and publications in Haiti, and her pivotal role in establishing the Los Angeles Global Health Conference.

Alongside her impressive academic and research achievements, Dr. Mathelier is deeply passionate about mentorship and has a proven track record of guiding pre-med students through the complex medical school admissions process. She has interviewed candidates, evaluated applicants, and participated in Q&A sessions, providing expert advice and support to aspiring medical students. As a leader of the Pre-Med Mentorship Program and a pre-med advisor at the UCLA Academic Achievement Program, she focused on assisting first-generation and transfer pre-med students, promoting diversity and inclusion in the medical field. As an NYU resident, she continued to engage with prospective applicants through residency recruitment events.

As a counselor, Dr. Mathelier uses her experiences to provide personalized guidance to applicants. Her ability to help applicants find their voice and craft compelling narratives sets her apart as a mentor. Her extensive knowledge of the admissions process allows her to empower students to pursue their dreams and succeed in their medical careers.

Originally from Edison, New Jersey, Dr. Subramanian pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania. She graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in health and society, demonstrating her commitment to understanding the broader context of healthcare.

Dr. Subramanian has worked in health economics and outcomes research at Pfizer Oncology and at the diabetes information company Close Concerns. As a patient advocate, Dr. Subramanian has spoken at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), an example of how she bridges the gap between medical research and patient care.

Dr. Subramanian’s research background is particularly noteworthy, having conducted studies at prestigious institutions including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Mt. Sinai Medical Center, Perelman School of Medicine/Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Northwell Health Cohen Children's Medical Center, and JFK Hospital Hackensack Meridian Health.

At the Zucker School of Medicine, Dr. Subramanian continued to demonstrate her leadership and commitment to healthcare. She was part of the selective IMPACcT and KLAR Leadership programs, served as the President of the American Medical Association Chapter, and led education and local outreach/partnerships for the community service committee. Additionally, she mentors youth in the Medical Science Youth Program and is pursuing a Humanities in Medicine concentration through the GOLD Foundation. Dr. Subramanian is also a certified EMT, further expanding her practical medical skills.

Dr. Subramanian was actively involved in various extracurricular activities during her undergraduate years. She served as a tour guide, participated in the Professional Women's Alumni Alliance and Fox Leadership Fellowship Program, and volunteered with the Puentes de Salud bilingual after-school literacy program. Dr. Subramanian was also involved in Penn's Global Initiatives Abroad Team and was a member of the Penn Association for Gender Equity.

Dr. Subramanian's dedication to community service is further exemplified by her lifelong involvement with the Girl Scouts, where she has earned the prestigious Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards.

With extensive experience in tutoring and mentoring, Dr. Subramanian loves working with people to accomplish their goals. Through her work with Inspira, she has seen students develop confidence, deepen their understanding of their passion for healthcare, and see their future dreams come to fruition.

Dr. Subramanian's greatest strength as a consultant is her ability to meet each person where they are, understanding both their aspirations and realistic expectations. She learns about their strengths, interests outside of medicine, and what they hope to gain from the application cycle. She develops individualized plans for students and remains available to chat and modify plans as needed.

In her counseling sessions, Dr. Subramanian sets specific goals predetermined from prior sessions. She checks in on overall progress, approaches every conversation with an open mind, and develops action plans for both the current and next sessions.

With her extensive research experience, proven leadership abilities, and commitment to community service, Dr. Subramanian is well-equipped to guide and inspire pre-medical students through the challenging yet rewarding journey of becoming a physician. Her diverse background and achievements make her an excellent mentor for aspiring medical professionals.

Dr. Mellacheruvu initially began his college career at the University of Washington with dreams of playing competitive cricket. However, a sports injury sustained during a study abroad trip in Oxford unexpectedly ignited his passion for medicine. Dr. Mellacheruvu graduated from the UW Honors College with a degree in biochemistry, setting the stage for his future in the medical field.

Choosing to stay close to home,  Dr. Mellacheruvu completed his medical education at Washington State University. During his clinical rotations, he developed a deep interest in cardiology, which would shape his future career aspirations. 

Throughout medical school, Dr. Mellacheruvu demonstrated his commitment to advocacy and research. He became involved with national advocacy through the American College of Physicians, working to promote the interests of internal medicine physicians and their patients. Simultaneously, he participated in cardiometabolic research collaborations with teams at institutions such as Massachusetts General Hospital, Duke University, Northwestern University, the University of Washington, and the University of Pennsylvania.

Between college and medical school, Dr. Mellacheruvu gained valuable clinical and research experience. He worked as a scribe for an oncology clinic, gaining firsthand exposure to patient care and the inner workings of a medical practice. Additionally, he served as a research assistant at NanoString Technologies, working on breast cancer assays.

Dr. Mellacheruvu's ultimate goal is to build long-term relationships with his students, providing support and guidance throughout their journey to medical school and beyond. He recognizes that each individual has their own story and is dedicated to helping them maximize their storytelling potential through their applications, personal statements, and interviews. He aims to be not only a knowledgeable resource but also a supportive companion during the challenging application process.

Dr. Shah graduated cum laude from Adelphi University, where she was inducted into the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society for her academic and leadership achievements. She graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine with distinction, receiving both an academic scholarship and a competitive research grant for her work on the oral health needs of intimate partner violence survivors, later published as part of the university’s prestigious Bates Andrews Research Initiative. 

Dr. Shah's professional journey has included comprehensive general and pediatric dentistry in both private practice and community settings. She has lectured at every dental school in California, guiding students on public health pathways and loan repayment programs. Dr. Shah has served as an outreach dental consultant for the State of California’s Medi-Cal Dental Program, where she led policy initiatives—most notably the Teledentistry Expansion Project—and collaborated with state and nonprofit leaders to improve access to care.

As a dental school admissions coach, Dr. Shah brings her greatest strengths to the forefront: her deep understanding of the admissions landscape, a keen eye for strategic storytelling in personal statements, and a heartfelt commitment to each student’s individual journey. Her coaching style is personalized, encouraging, and grounded in real-world experience, helping applicants gain acceptance to dental school and grow into impactful healthcare leaders.

Dr. Shah’s passion for mentorship is rooted in her belief in service and access. From founding a sustainable dental clinic in Uganda and volunteering clinic instruction at the UC San Diego Free Dental Clinics to supporting nonprofits on global health and education, her work consistently reflects her values of empowerment and equity.

Dr. Shah is also an accomplished content writer and editor for health and wellness brands, where she combines science communication with powerful storytelling. Her literary work includes the award-winning book For My Sister, recipient of the American Book Award for Social Change.

Dr. Chaturvedi graduated magna cum laude and with distinction from Duke University, with a major in neuroscience and minors in biology and chemistry. After graduating, he spent a gap year at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, MD, as an NIH IRTA fellow, investigating the roles of vasopressin and oxytocin in the central nervous system using mouse models. His research specifically focused on utilizing rodent models to better understand social behavioral deficits in patients with schizophrenia.

Dr. Chaturvedi then completed his MD at the UC San Diego School of Medicine. He is currently in his fourth and final year of anesthesiology residency at Weill Cornell Medical Center. He has received multiple awards including the President's Choice Abstract Award ASRA, Excellence in Pharmacology Award, and MSTAR Funding Award.

In addition to his impressive academic and research achievements, Dr. Chaturvedi has a strong commitment to mentoring and guiding aspiring medical professionals. For several years, he has served as a member of Duke's Medical Advisory Program (MAP) and UC San Diego School of Medicine's Premedical Advisory Program, where he has helped many students succeed throughout the medical school and residency application processes. Students Dr. Chaturvedi has coached have been accepted to prestigious medical schools at NYU, Temple University, Brown University,  UCSD, and others. 

As a well-published author, Dr. Chaturvedi has extensive experience producing high-quality, professional essays, which have been instrumental in helping countless students navigate the admissions process successfully. His combination of academic excellence, research expertise, and passion for mentoring solidifies him as the perfect asset for students seeking guidance and support on their path to a career in medicine.

Dr. Dalal’s journey to medical school began at Rice University, where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, demonstrating his exceptional academic prowess and dedication to learning. At Rice, Dr. Dalal developed a keen interest in biochemistry and medical humanities, laying a strong foundation for his future medical career. His diverse academic background allows him to approach the medical school application process with an individualized perspective, understanding the importance of both scientific knowledge and humanistic values in medicine.

When applying to medical schools, Dr. Dalal cast a wide net, applying to institutions both within Texas and across the country. This experience gave him firsthand knowledge of the nuances between different application systems, particularly TMDSAS and AMCAS. His personal journey through this process equips him with insights to guide students, especially those from Texas, in navigating the complexities of multiple application portals.

Dr. Dalal's passion for mentoring stems from his profound appreciation for the guidance he received during his own application journey. This gratitude fuels his commitment to aiding the next generation of aspiring medical students. His coaching style is characterized by his ability to break down the often overwhelming medical school application process into manageable, actionable steps.

Dr. Dalal has experience navigating both TMDSAS and AMCAS and is especially equipped to help Texas applicants. Additionally, he served as an interviewer for the admissions committee and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and knows how interviews are evaluated and what sticks out on an application.

One of Dr. Dalal's key strengths as a coach lies in his ability to help candidates recognize and effectively express their strengths. He understands that each applicant has a distinct story to tell and works tirelessly to ensure that these individual narratives shine through in applications and interviews. Dr. Dalal's approach combines empathy, practical advice, and strategic thinking, ensuring students are well-prepared to put their best foot forward in their medical school applications.

Dr. Pammal's passion for healthcare and leadership began during his undergraduate years at Harvard University, where he studied history of science, global health, and health policy. While at Harvard, he served as Director-General of Harvard Model United Nations, an Executive Board Member of the South Asian Healthcare Leadership Forum, and wrote his senior thesis on healthcare reform for prescription drug pricing.

After graduating from Harvard, Dr. Pammal gained experience as a consultant at Clarion Healthcare, a life sciences consulting firm in Boston, MA. There, he provided strategic advice to pharmaceutical and biotech companies across the clinical development spectrum. Despite his demanding work schedule, he remained committed to community service, volunteering in the hospital lobby at Massachusetts General Hospital on weekends.

While at NYMC, Dr. Pammal was selected to deliver the student remarks at various ceremonies and events. Upon graduation,  he was awarded the prestigious William Cullen Bryant Award for outstanding leadership, academic excellence, and service to the College's community.

Dr. Pammal strongly believes in the power of mentorship and is passionate about serving as an enthusiastic guide to the next generation of future physicians. Drawing from his own experiences and the advice he has received over the years, he is committed to helping aspiring medical students achieve their dreams and make a positive impact in the field of medicine.

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.

Before veterinary school, Dr. Tierce's academic path was unconventional, majoring in what she humorously describes as "music and horses." Initially aspiring to become an equine veterinarian, a serendipitous lab job altered her career trajectory, sparking a passion for research that has defined her professional journey.

During veterinary school, she completed a biomedical research fellowship at Stanford University, focusing on radiation treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Her undergraduate and veterinary school years in Colorado involved work at one of NASA's specialized centers, studying the long-term effects of space irradiation on cancer development. In her final year of veterinary school, she received a Center for Companion Animal Studies grant to evaluate the efficacy of radiation therapy for treating soft tissue sarcomas in canine patients.

Dr. Tierce’s decision to pursue a residency in laboratory animal medicine post-graduation allowed her to expand her expertise in animal models of human disease while advocating for the humane use of animals in research. This specialization aligns with her commitment to advancing medical knowledge while ensuring the ethical treatment of research animals.

At Columbia University, Dr. Tierce plays a vital role in the Institute of Comparative Medicine Residency Program, focusing on onboarding and training new residents. Her professional interests span animal ethics, clinical microbiology, soft tissue surgery, and non-human primate medicine.

Dr. Tierce's experience extends to the admissions process for veterinary programs. She currently sits on the admissions committee for Columbia University's Laboratory Animal Residency Program and has participated in the interview process for prospective residents at the NYU-Regeneron Postdoctoral Fellowship in Laboratory Animal Medicine during her own residency.

As an admissions consultant, Dr. Tierce is excited to help aspiring veterinarians and residents develop standout applications. Her experience as both an interviewee and interviewer provides her with insider tips regarding the admissions process. Drawing from her diverse background in veterinary medicine, research, and specialized practice, she is well-equipped to guide candidates through crafting compelling applications and preparing for interviews.

Dr. Tierce's journey from a music and equine enthusiast to a specialized veterinarian in laboratory animal medicine demonstrates the diverse paths available in veterinary careers. Her expertise, combined with her passion for mentoring, makes her an excellent resource for those seeking to pursue veterinary education or specialized residencies in the field.

Dr. Kessler attended Johns Hopkins University for her undergraduate studies in pre-med and French. While at Johns Hopkins, she led the JHU Medical Ethics Discussion Panel and worked in a neurology and neurosurgery research lab. She then attended the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in NYC and graduated with distinction in research. While at Mount Sinai, Dr. Kessler was the recipient of numerous awards, including a merit-based tuition scholarship for all four years of medical school.

While in medical school, Dr. Kessler founded the Special Forces Neurosurgery Collaborative with neurosurgeons from Mount Sinai, Cleveland Clinic, and the leadership of the US Green Beret Foundation, which is an organization that spearheads neurosurgery research initiatives geared towards addressing the unique healthcare needs of America's Special Forces warriors. Dr. Kessler has given over a dozen lectures on her research at national conferences and is currently a medical editor and reviewer for the Journal of Special Operations Medicine and MyHealthTeams, LLC. She was previously a reviewer for the World Neurosurgery journal and has authored five textbook chapters in major neurosurgical textbooks.

As a mentor, Dr. Kessler's greatest strength lies in her ability to draw from her extensive teaching and tutoring experience, coupled with her firsthand knowledge of the medical school and residency admissions processes. Her exceptional academic performance at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she graduated with distinction in research, has provided her with invaluable insights into what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of medical education.

Dr. Choe's educational journey began at Duke University, where he double majored in biology and chemistry. He then pursued his dental degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Driven to specialize and expand his knowledge, he completed specialty training in prosthodontics at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He earned a PhD in bioengineering from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Dr. Choe’s clinician role as a dentist for nearly eight years has allowed him to gain extensive experience in dentistry, including implant surgeries, full-mouth rehabilitations, and digital dental technology. With over a decade of experience as an admissions coach and mentor, he helps students pursue graduate and professional education in dentistry.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Choe has made significant contributions to the field of tissue engineering, with numerous publications to his name. His involvement in the National Science Foundation's Innovation Corps program further highlights his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and translating research into practical applications.

Dr. Choe's approach to coaching is flexible and tailored to each individual—students he has coached have been accepted to top dental schools at New York University and the University of Pittsburgh, among others. He takes the time to understand what motivates and inspires students, allowing him to provide personalized guidance and support. His encouraging and upbeat demeanor helps to keep students motivated, even during challenging times. He strongly believes in the power of positive reinforcement and strives to draw out the best in each student's capabilities. Dr. Choe strongly believes in paying it forward and helping all students he works with achieve their dreams.