What was your career goal when you graduated, and where are you up to on that journey?

My career goal when I graduated was to attend medical school and become a licensed physician. Currently almost a year after I have graduated, I am finishing up my first year of medical school at Jacobs School of Medicine here at UB.

What are you currently working on professionally?

Currently, I am in school being a full-time student as we have just finished up our first major systems block. We are about to begin Clinical Immersions, which consists of 2 weeks in the clinic with no classes then onto our next systems block.

How has the Department of Biological Sciences helped you prepare for your goal?

The Department of Biological Sciences helped to build a strong foundation within many different disciplines to help me prepare for my goal of attending medical school. First it provided me a chance to delve deeper into research through the BIO Honors Program. The department also helped to build my network and connections as every professor has been super friendly and always willing to help.

What faculty member or class brings back the best memories?

The class that brings back the best memories for me is BIO303- General Physiology as it was the first class I ever had in person post-COVID. Not only was I interested in the content we were learning but the professor, Dr. Ezak, was excellent at teaching and allowed me many opportunities after the class to TA for her in both the lab and lecture class.

What is your advice to the current/future BIO students?

My current advice to BIO students is to take any opportunity that comes your way. You may never know where the opportunity will take you and what doors it will open. Keep an open mind and always be diligent in what you do!