Daniel Alber is a first-year medical student in the four-year MD pathway at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He grew up in Newton, Massachusetts, and went on to study applied mathematics and biology at Brown University, where he was a four-year Division I swimmer. During college, he also volunteered at the Rhode Island Free Clinic, led advising for the division of applied mathematics, and conducted research spanning disparities in trauma care, artificial intelligence (AI)–enabled neuropathology, and statistical neuroscience. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Daniel serves as co-president of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons Student Chapter, and conducts translational and clinical research in the department of neurosurgery using deep learning and computer vision to improve patient care. In his free time, Daniel enjoys skiing, visiting museums, and seeing live shows and music.

Elyse Berlinberg is in her final year of the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, after completing a research year in orthopedic sports medicine at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush in Chicago. She hails from the San Francisco Bay Area, and is the oldest of three sisters. She completed her undergraduate studies in biochemistry and global studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she was a member of the Yell Crew, an Undergraduate Research Scholar conducting translational studies in drug-resistant melanoma, and a medical scribe for an orthopedic surgeon at Southern California Orthopedic Institute. She worked in clinical trials and global health at the Francis I. Proctor Foundation at the University of California, San Francisco, before moving to New York City, which she credits for inspiring her passion to become an academic physician. In her time at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she has been involved in sports medicine and joint arthroplasty research, the NYC Free Clinic, the Wellness Committee, and the Violet Society Peer Mentor program. She has been an active member of the Admissions Ambassadors all five years and is currently serving as a co-chair of the program with Jairo Triana. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, biking, paint-by-numbers, crossword puzzles, scary stories, and powerlifting. She is applying for orthopedic surgery residency this year.

Mason Blacker is a second-year medical student in the three-year pathway for neurosurgery. He is a 14-year Navy veteran and is currently still on active duty. He is married with two kids and commutes to school. Mason is president of NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Mission:Brain chapter and involved with veterans events around campus. Please reach out to Mason with any questions about family life and school, veteran concerns, the three-year pathway, or anything in general.

Jorge Campos Franco is a first-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in the traditional four-year MD program. He is originally from Santa Clarita, California, and graduated from the University of Southern California with a BS in human biology in 2021. During his gap year, Jorge worked as a medical scribe at Glendale Pediatrics. Outside of the classroom, Jorge serves as vice president of the Black and Latinx Students’ Association (BALSA), program leader of Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS), and leader of the Plastic Surgery Interest Group. In his free time, Jorge enjoys weightlifting at Crunch Gym, watching 49ers football, and playing video games.

Ashish Chakraborty is a first-year student in the four-year MD program. He is from Katy, Texas, and graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 2022 with a degree in biochemistry and a minor in Spanish. As an undergraduate, he engaged in research in cancer biomarker discovery and clinical mass spectrometry. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Ashish serves as co-leader of the South Asian Medical Students Association as well as the rock climbing club. He also volunteers with the NYC Free Clinic and is currently in the Medical Spanish elective. His current career interests include orthopedics and emergency medicine. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the city, playing violin, cooking, watching college football, and going bouldering. Ashish would be more than happy to answer any questions about NYU Grossman School of Medicine—please feel free to reach out!

Rayvanth (Ray) Chappidi is a first-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in the four-year MD program. He grew up in South Brunswick, New Jersey, and attended Washington University in St. Louis where is majored in anthropology: global health and environment and minored in biology. After graduating in December of 2020, Ray spent one semester continuing his research in an obstetrics and gynecology lab that focused on urinary tract infections and bladder health. Afterward, he spent one year working as a medical assistant at a dermatology clinic in Massachusetts. In addition to his role as an Admissions Ambassador, Ray serves as the vice president and treasurer of the Executive Student Council. He is also a leader of the Interventional Radiology Interest Group and the Card/Board Game Club. In his free time, Ray enjoys playing ping-pong, visiting new parks and museums, watching Survivor, and beating his friends at board games.

Sabrina Chen is a fourth-year student in the four-year program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She was born and raised in the Bay Area in northern California. She received her BS in neuroscience and molecular and cellular biology at Johns Hopkins University. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Sabrina participates in clinical research in health disparities. She served on the officer board for the Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association and served as the co-chair for the Medical Mandarin Program. Sabrina also enjoys volunteering with the NYC Free Clinic and Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS), a one-on-one mentorship program that works with local underrepresented in medicine and economically disadvantaged high school students. In her free time, Sabrina enjoys reflective writing, trying new recipes, caring for her rubber plant, and taking photos of her friends and family.

Andrew Clayburn is an undecided third-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Born into a military family, he has no true hometown as he lived in more than 20 locations across the United States and abroad. He graduated from Washington University in St. Louis in 2013 with a BS in mechanical engineering before serving in the United States Army as an Air Defense Artillery Officer for five years. During his time in the military, he discovered a passion for managing the health and welfare of his soldiers and was inspired by the military medical community. This led him to his decision to separate from the military in late 2017 in pursuit of a career in medicine. He enjoys training in circus arts from hand balancing to partner acrobatics, playing and watching soccer (and pretty much any other sport), and traveling. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, he is involved in Black and Latinx Students’ Association (BALSA), SEED, veteran groups, the NYC Free Clinic, and some other things sprinkled in, but feel free to ask him anything about school and not school, traditional or nontraditional.

Alyson Dennis is a third-year student in the four-year program from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She graduated from Barnard College in New York City in 2019. For her gap year, she spent the year working as a care coordinator at a New York City fertility clinic. She is passionate about women’s health and has been involved in various women’s health research projects. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she is involved in COVID-19 vaccine education, the Jewish Students Association, and first-year orientation programming. She is currently completing her clinical rotations and feels fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend a large portion of her clerkship time working at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. She is still undecided but thinking about a career in medicine or obstetrics and gynecology. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new city parks, and visiting her family and Golden Retriever.

Allison Diaz is a first-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in the four-year MD program. She grew up in Fairfield, Connecticut, and graduated from Cornell University in 2021 with a BS in biological sciences. During her gap year, Allison worked doing clinical research at the adult reconstruction and joint replacement service at the Hospital for Special Surgery. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Allison is a leader of the Plastic Surgery Interest Group, Surgery Interest Group, and the Business, Economics, and Medicine Club. In her free time, Allison enjoys going on hikes outside the city, going on runs, and trying new restaurants with friends.

Heidi Dong is a second-year student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She is from Dunlap, Illinois, and graduated from Yale University in 2020, where she majored in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she is a course liaison—working with faculty and other students to provide feedback on the curriculum—and served on the steering committee of the NYC Free Clinic as the undergraduate volunteer coordinator. She also served on the leadership teams of FOCUS (the ophthalmology interest group) and the Food and Wine Society. Additionally, since last summer, she has been working on a project in the Department of Ophthalmology studying endothelial cell healing after cataract surgery. In her free time, she enjoys baking, exploring New York cafes and restaurants, and dog-watching in the park.

Kathryn (Katie) Duckworth is a second-year student in the four-year MD program here at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. She graduated from Brown University in 2019 with a BA in gender and sexuality studies with a focus on women’s health. After she graduated from Brown, she spent her two gap years home in Boston working at Massachusetts Eye and Ear as the medical scribe of a head and neck surgical oncologist. She is currently most interested in oncology, psychiatry, and radiology as possible specialties, but she is still very much undecided and is looking forward to starting clerkships in order to further explore all of the many possibilities within medicine. She is currently one of the reproductive health coordinators at the NYC Free Clinic and one of the leaders of the Hepatitis Project, a harm reduction club here at the school. She also engages in oncologic research. In her free time, she enjoys attending as many concerts as she possibly can, taking long meandering walks while binging her favorite podcasts, and thrift shopping for fun and funky clothing.

Jenny Engelman is a first-year medical student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Born and raised in New York City, Jenny first became dedicated to pursuing medicine after engaging in research at a free adolescent health clinic in Manhattan. She attended Dartmouth College where she received a BA in psychology with a minor in chemistry. At Dartmouth, she was an undergraduate advisor, a captain of the women’s club volleyball team, a leader of the college’s Planned Parenthood chapter, and a researcher in the immunology and microbiology department of Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. Following her graduation, she engaged in clinical research with a fetal and pediatric surgeon at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where she found her passion for clinical research. Outside of class, Jenny loves her yoga practice, playing volleyball, and playing board and card games.

Sami Fairweather is a first-year medical student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She was born and raised in Thousand Oaks, California. She graduated from the University of San Diego in 2021, where she majored in biology and double minored in chemistry and theology. She also played on the Division I soccer team and was the captain for her final two years. In her gap year, she worked as a medical scribe in an urgent care and sports medicine clinic in San Diego. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Sami is a scheduling coordinator at the NYC Free Clinic and is one of the leaders of the Soccer Club. In her free time, she likes to read, play sports, go to the park, and enjoy time with friends.

Ella Feiner is a first-year student in the four-year MD program. Originally from Ridgewood, New Jersey, she graduated from Princeton University in 2022 with a degree in chemical and biological engineering. During her undergraduate years, Ella worked in a lab studying gene regulation, competed internationally with the Princeton Debate Panel, and played with the Princeton Pianists Ensemble. Her genetics research experience sparked an interest in oncology, which she hopes to pursue further throughout medical school. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she has gotten involved with the NYC Free Clinic as a labs coordinator and is a co-leader of the History of Medicine and Jewish Student Association groups. In her free time, Ella enjoys skiing, running along the East River, and searching for the best ice cream in the city.

Nora Fettinger is a first-year student in the four-year MD program from Hemlock, Michigan. She graduated from Central Michigan University in 2021, where she majored in biomedical sciences and minored in child development. As an undergraduate, Nora was a member of the Division I gymnastics team. During her gap year, Nora worked as a clinical research assistant at an obstetrics and gynecology office and as a certified nursing assistant at a long-term care facility. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Nora volunteers at the NYC Free Clinic and is the reproductive health coordinator. She is also a leader for the Hepatitis Project and serves on the Wellness Curriculum Committee. In her free time, she enjoys running along the East River, trying new restaurants and bakeries, hiking, and painting.

Roxana (Roxy) Ghadimi is a second-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She grew up Palos Verdes, California, a suburb outside of Los Angeles. Roxy received a degree in neuroscience from Duke University and is now in the four-year MD program. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Roxy enjoys volunteering at the NYC Free Clinic and as a birth doula at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. She is also involved in research spanning dermatology and psychiatry. Outside of school, Roxy enjoys yoga, painting, poetry, and sunny hangouts in Madison Square Park.

Myranda Gormley (she/her/hers) is a second-year student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Myranda graduated from Johns Hopkins University in 2019 with a BS in neuroscience. After graduation, she worked as a medical assistant in a dermatology clinic. She is currently interested in adolescent medicine, and spent the summer of 2022 conducting research within the adolescent medicine division at NYU Langone. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she has also been involved with the Black and Latinx Student Association, Latino Medical Student Association, Student Wellness Committee, and Violet Society Mini-Mentors. In her free time, Myranda enjoys listening to the Armchair Expert Podcast and spending time with her partner and friends.

Maya Graves is a fourth-year medical student in the four-year MD program. She is originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, and graduated from Indiana University with a BS in human nutrition. Following graduation in 2018, Maya moved to New York City and in the fall of 2018 began a one-year MS in human nutrition. During her time at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she has been involved in this in research with the NYU Langone Transplant Institute, where she is most notably proud of the Medical Student Transplant Organ Procurement Program (MSTOPP), which is an extracurricular activity where students have the opportunity to participate in a short curriculum and scrub into an organ procurement procedure. Despite her work in the Department of Surgery, she found a love for psychiatry during her clerkship year and will be pursuing psychiatry for residency. She cannot wait! In her free time, she enjoys going out without friends, propagating plants, doing paint by numbers and puzzles and being silly with her COVID pulpy, T’Challa!

Hunter Hernandez is a current second-year student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and is part of the standard four-year track. He was born and raised in Miami, Florida. He attended the University of Florida and graduated in 2020 with a BS in biology. Hunter has led the Urology Interest Group, served as the treasurer of the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA), and has served as a volunteer at the NYC Free Clinic for two semesters. Outside of school, Hunter enjoys playing sports, going to the gym, and playing video games.

Camila Hernandez Blanco is a first-year medical student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She was born in Argentina and raised in Wisconsin, where she attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison with majors in Spanish and neurobiology. During her gap year, she worked as a bilingual medical assistant at Planned Parenthood and travelled around South America. Camila is passionate about reducing health disparities and working with underserved communities, especially Spanish-speaking populations. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she is involved in the NYC Free Clinic, and the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) and QMed E-board. Outside of class, she likes to read, explore coffee shops and neighborhoods in the city, walk around Central Park, and play pick-up field hockey games.

Derek Huell is a first-year student in the accelerated three-year MD pathway for neurosurgery. He is from a military family but resided primarily in Columbus, GA, where he calls home. He went on to attend Georgia Tech as a Stamps President’s Scholar, where he studied neuroscience and conducted memory research, graduating in 2022. He also completed neurodegenerative disease research at the NIH, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and MD Anderson Cancer Center. The tumultuous events of 2020 led Derek to work with incarcerated populations through nonprofits in Atlanta. Since moving to NYC, he has begun designing a STEM curriculum for inmates at Wallkill Correctional Facility through the NYU Prison Education Program. Derek is an avid fisherman, and his joy for working with his hands alongside his interest in neuroscience has led him to pursue neurosurgery. Since starting medical school in August, Derek has become President of the NYU Chapter of the Student National Medical Association, Co-President of the NYU Chapter of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Research Chair of NYU Mission Brain, and serves on the national student committee of the Coalition of Black Men Physicians. He has also begun historical and clinical research within the NYU neurosurgery department.

Sophia Jacobi is a first-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She is originally from Harrison, New York, and graduated from Dartmouth College in 2021 with a BA in biomedical engineering and global health. During her gap year, Sophia worked at a pharmaceutical comparative effectiveness research startup company. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, in addition to being an Admissions Ambassador, Sophia serves as the volunteer coordinator for the NYC Free Clinic and a leader of the Orthopedic Surgery Interest Group. In her free time, Sophia enjoys trying new restaurants in New York City, playing tennis, and going to comedy shows and concerts.

Amy Kwan is a first-year MD/PhD student from Flemington, New Jersey. She graduated from Washington University in St. Louis in 2021, majoring in computational biology and genomics and minoring in music. Before medical school, Amy worked at a biotech startup in Philadelphia, working on high-throughput image analysis and development of three-dimensional organ-on-a-chip platforms for therapeutics development. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Amy is a volunteer doula at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue and a college admissions mentor through Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS). Her career interests include medical genetics, pediatrics, and rare and undiagnosed diseases. In her free time, Amy enjoys taking dance classes in the city, baking bread, and trying new restaurants.

Matteo Laspro is a second-year student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He grew up in São Paulo, Brazil. Matteo went on to major in biological sciences, comparative literature, and Romance languages and literature at the University of Chicago. In college, Matteo worked in both primary care research as well as basic science, looking at hair cells and their mechanoreceptors. In college, Matteo continued to pursue his passion for fashion, working as editor for the university’s fashion magazine. From college, Matteo went directly to medical school. In addition to being an Admissions Ambassador, Matteo teaches sexual education for high school kids, is a fundraising director for the NYC Free Clinic, is a Silverstein Scholar, and leads the Plastic Surgery Interest Group. He also conducts research on pediatric and adult craniofacial surgeries, vascular composite allotransplantation, and post-bariatric body contouring. In his free time, Matteo enjoys spending time with friends and enjoying all that New York has to offer.

Aleeza Leder Macek is a fourth-year student in the traditional four-year program here an NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She is originally from Naperville, Illinois, outside of Chicago and went to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for undergraduate where she majored in integrative biology and minored in chemistry and classics. She came straight through from undergraduate to medical school. In her time here, Aleeza has had the opportunity to be involved in many activities including the NYC Free Clinic, Keytones A Capella group, the Violet Society Program, and of course, Admissions Ambassadors. Outside of these activities, she has also had the chance to participate in research about cancer screening, surgical oncology, and otolaryngology. Outside of school, Aleeza enjoys performing musical theater, baking, and exploring the city with friends. She is currently applying to residency programs in otolaryngology.

Jacob Lester is a student in NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s four-year MD program with interests in emergency medicine, health policy, and the American welfare state. He was born and raised in Overland Park, Kansas, and he graduated from the University of Southern California with a BS in neuroscience in 2020. He took one gap year between undergraduate and medical school, during which time he worked at a private outpatient surgery center in Santa Monica, California. When not in class, Jacob can be found shadowing in the emergency department or volunteering with the NYC Free Clinic. He also enjoys rock climbing with friends (he only falls sometimes), seeing if he likes any of the songs Spotify recommends to him, reading good fiction (Kazuo Ishiguro is a favorite), and hunting for cheap vegetarian restaurants around New York City.

Robyn Lipschultz is a first-year student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in behavioral biology. At Johns Hopkins, she was a member of both the varsity women’s soccer and lacrosse teams. After graduating college in 2020, Robyn spent two years at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, where she worked as a clinical research assistant focusing on projects in rheumatology and orthopedics. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Robyn currently serves as a co-leader for the Orthopedic Surgery Interest Group and the Hepatitis Project. She also volunteers with Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS), a one-on-one mentorship program that works with local underrepresented in medicine and economically disadvantaged high school students. In her free time, Robyn enjoys exploring New York City’s amazing food scene, rollerblading, running, and playing soccer.

Grace Maline is a first-year student in the four-year MD program. She was born and raised in Oakland, Nebraska. She attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha where she completed a degree in bioinformatics with minors in chemistry and computer science. During her gap year, she worked as a medical scribe for a urologist and as a research assistant studying Toxoplasma gondii. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Grace volunteers with the NYC Free Clinic and serves as a referrals coordinator for the clinic. She is a co-leader for No One Dies Alone (NODA). In her free time, Grace enjoys running, crocheting, listening to podcasts, camping out in coffee shops, and exploring the city’s restaurant scene.

Michael Martinez is a third-year medical student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, he attended the University of Illinois at Chicago, graduating in 2019 with a BS in finance and a BS with a major in biological sciences. He is extremely passionate about high-value care. He hopes to help drive health innovation, working to establish novel and efficient practices that make care more affordable and accessible. Michael’s current research projects include improving transitions in care, uncovering what makes a successful healthcare innovation center, and understanding patient motivations for elective cosmetic procedures. Outside of medical school, Michael enjoys looking at real estate, visiting Chicago, and participating in speech and debate. Michael currently holds a coaching position with the University of Illinois at Chicago’s top ranked speech team, which he founded as an undergraduate student.

Phil Martinez is a second-year student in the four-year MD program here at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He is from Westfield, New Jersey, which is a 45-minute train ride from New York City. He graduated from Cornell University, majoring in biological sciences with a concentration in neurobiology and behavior. As a second-year student, he is part of Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS), a mentorship program where medical students support a high school senior as they apply to college. Additionally, Phil is the Ophthalmology and Geriatric Interest Group leader. Outside of school, he enjoys hiking, climbing, and painting.

Morgan McManus is a first-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in the four-year MD program. She grew up in Florence, South Carolina, and attended Clemson University for undergraduate school where she received her BS in health science with a concentration in health promotion and behavior and minors in biological sciences and Spanish studies. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Morgan serves as the vice president for the school’s chapter of the Student National Medical Association (SNMA). She is also involved as a mentor through Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS), volunteers as a doula, and is in the Medical Spanish class. In her spare time, she enjoys watching Netflix and Clemson football.

Michelle Murata is a first-year medical student from Kahalu’u, Hawai’i. Michelle graduated from Stanford University in 2022 with a BS in chemistry and a minor in ethics in society. During her undergraduate years she was involved in neurodevelopmental research, studying the effects of maternal immune activation on astrocyte development. She also enjoyed conducting clinical research around anaphylaxis and periviable births in Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations, and is looking forward to starting clinical research at NYU Grossman School of Medicine soon. Here, Michelle is a labs coordinator at the NYC Free Clinic, a co-leader of the Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA), and a Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS) mentor. In her free time, Michelle enjoys kayaking, hiking, and bouldering. She loves being a medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and living in New York, and would be more than happy to chat about either!

Carli Needle is a second-year student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She is originally from Potomac, Maryland (a suburb of Washington, DC), but spent her four undergraduate years living in Nashville, Tennessee. She graduated from Vanderbilt University in May 2021 with a double major in neuroscience and medicine, health, and society, as well as a minor in Spanish. Thus far at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Carli has been involved with the Dermatology Interest Group leadership team, the NYC Free Clinic, Advanced Medical Spanish program, clinical research in the Dermatology department, and the Admissions Ambassador Program. To highlight some of Carli’s involvements in college, she worked in a biomedical research lab, led an interactive science education program for underserved middle school students, volunteered at the Vanderbilt Hospital, tutored and mentored at-risk youth, served as a campus tour guide, and competed on the Vanderbilt club tennis team. Some of Carli’s other hobbies include hiking, cooking, tennis, traveling, singing, and exploring new restaurants around the city. Carli absolutely loves medical school here and would be happy to answer any questions about NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s vibrant community, curriculum, and opportunities!

Christopher (Chris) Nmai (he/they) is a current second-year student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. They took a research year between their first and second years, working with a preventative cardiologist on cardiovascular disease research. Chris is originally from Twinsburg, Ohio, and went to Harvard College where they studied history and science: medicine and society. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Chris was originally a part of the three-year pathway in internal medicine, but ultimately opted to return to the four-year MD pathway. They are also interested in pursuing an MBA during their time here. Additionally, Chris has been involved in a handful of student organizations, serving as a former president of the school’s Student National Medical Association (SNMA) chapter and former co-leader for both the Internal Medicine Interest Group and History of Medicine Club. Outside of school, Chris enjoys DJing, playing tennis, watching soccer (go Chelsea!), cycling, and cooking and baking. At the moment, Chris is leaning toward a career in psychiatry, but will allow their clerkship year to shape and guide their trajectory moving forward.

Chinemelum Obijiofor was born and raised in Houston, Texas. She graduated from Rice University with a major in biochemistry and cell biology. Throughout her time at Rice, Chinemelum lived out her passion for serving minority populations, mentoring Houston high school students from underserved communities and organizing Rice’s first minority teen health summit. She is currently a third-year student in NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s four-year MD program. Continuing her work with underserved communities, she served as the referrals coordinator for the NYC Free Clinic. She is interested in pursuing a career in dermatology and conducts research on conditions that disproportionately impact patients with skin of color. For fun, Chinemelum enjoys working out and watching anime.

Christine Olagun-Samuel is a second-year student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She grew up in Paramus, New Jersey, the first of three children. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2020 with a BA in health and societies. Through her interdisciplinary studies while at Penn, Christine developed a keen interest in the history, policies, and structures that shape healthcare systems, and in addressing the inequities that exist within them. After graduating, she spent part of her gap year as a Fulbright Research student in Johannesburg, studying the impact of apartheid policies on the structure of the current healthcare system in South Africa. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she has continued to explore her interests in health policy, medical education, and research. She served as the research coordinator at the NYC Free Clinic and is currently a course liaison, facilitating student feedback on the curriculum to the Office of Medical Education. Currently, she is working on a research project with the Department of Dermatology, assessing the barriers to follow up for emergency department consults. She is also currently contributing to the next edition of Taylor and Kelly’s Dermatology for Skin of Color textbook. In her free time, Christine enjoys taking portrait photography and painting.

Lydia Pan is a first-year student in the four-year MD program, originally from Winchester, Massachusetts. She graduated from Harvard University in 2021 with a degree in chemical and physical biology. After graduation, she spent one year working as a clinical research coordinator at the Massachusetts General Hospital Pediatric Food Allergy Center, as well as continuing her undergraduate research on bacterial outer membrane assembly proteins. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Lydia serves as a referrals coordinator for the NYC Free Clinic, a Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS) mentor, and co-leads the ENT Interest Group and the History of Medicine Club. She loves all types of workout classes, good times with friends, and exploring the city on foot. She is living her dream as a medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and would be happy to talk to anyone who reaches out!

Emily Papiez is a first-year student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She grew up in White Lake, Michigan, and graduated from Brown University in 2021 with a degree in neuroscience and medical anthropology. After college, Emily spent one year working as a clinical assistant and medical scribe at a private fertility clinic in Manhattan. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Emily is a course liaison, where she works with faculty and students to provide feedback on the new preclinical curriculum. She also serves on the steering committees for both the NYC Free Clinic and the Asylum Clinic, and is a co-leader of the Bioethics Interest Group. In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time with friends, trying new restaurants, taking spin classes, and going on walks throughout the city.

Nitiksh (Nishu) Paul is a first-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Originally from Peoria, Illinois, he graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (I-L-L!) in 2021 where he received a BS in molecular and cellular biology with a minor in Spanish. In undergraduate school, he served as vice president of MannMukti UIUC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to removing the stigma surrounding South Asian mental health and as captain of UIUC Fizaa, a nationally competing fusion dance team. In his gap year, he worked as a telemetry technician at OSF St. Francis Medical Center and a part-time COVID-19 vaccinator. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Nishu serves as an elected class representative for the Class of 2026, volunteers as a student admissions interviewer, and works with the NYC Free Clinic as a preclinical assistant. Outside of school, Nishu enjoys dancing, listening to music and binging horrible reality TV shows. Feel free to reach out for questions about anything!

Maria Pratt is a first-year medical student in the three-year pathway for internal medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She grew up in Springdale, Arkansas, and graduated from Baylor University, where her major was science research fellows and her minors were mathematics and biochemistry. At Baylor, Maria led community service events for Multicultural Organization of Pre-Health Students (MAPS), and she helped facilitate a class for first-year students named Foundations of Medicine. She also volunteered as a mentor to pre-med students and at a federally funded health clinic. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Maria serves as the community service coordinator for the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA), and as a co-leader of the internal medicine and oncology interest groups. She also volunteers as patient educator at the NYC Free Clinic and will serve as one of the patient education coordinators this year. In her free time, Maria enjoys trying new restaurants in the city, watching TV, taking spin classes, and baking anything with chocolate in it.

Akshay Pulavarty is a third-year student from Portland, Oregon. He attended the University of Virginia where he completed a BA in neuroscience and an MPH. There, he was involved in undergraduate developmental neuroscience research and cancer survivorship research, ending his tenure with a capstone field research project in Palakollu, India, at the Rajavalli Radharaman Lions Eye Hospital. Akshay is in the three-year program for dermatology. He is also actively involved in dermatology research and mentorship for both medical and undergraduate students pursuing medicine. His projects have included skin cancer research and work on dermatologic health outcomes in skin of color. He was also involved in the NYC Free Clinic and the Dermatology Interest Group. Outside of class, he is an avid home cook, professional TV binger, and experienced park-goer.

Alyssa Pullano is a third-year student in the four-year program originally from Westchester, New York. She attended Georgetown University where she majored in human science and minored in studio art. In college, she was involved with the Center for Social Justice; served as a teaching assistant, peer advisor, and tutor; and led nondenominational reflections and retreats for first-year students. After graduating college in 2018, Alyssa spent two years conducting research at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health, where she worked on HIV vaccine trials and volunteered in the DC community. As a student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she has been involved in the NYC Free Clinic, Asylum Clinic, Students for a National Health Program, and research, and serves as a Mini-Mentor for the Violet Society Program. In her free time, you can find her checking out all of the amazing food in New York City, running alongside the East River, trying different workout classes, drawing, and caring for her many plants.

Lauren Rice is a first-year medical student from Indianapolis, Indiana. She studied biology and global health at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she played collegiate soccer. During college, Lauren worked as an undergraduate researcher seeking to understand the relationship between sleep apnea and hypertensive complications in pregnancy. She also worked as a respite provider for children with disabilities. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Lauren volunteers as a medical student doula, acting as a support person for pregnant women and their families during labor and delivery. She also volunteers with the NYC Free Clinic and Healthcare Career Collaborative. In her free time, she enjoys soccer, yoga, reading, and finding the best food in the city.

Ellen Rieth is a second-year medical student in the three-year MD program for dermatology. Originally from Spartanburg, South Carolina, she attended Vanderbilt University where she majored in neuroscience with a minor in Italian studies. During her time at Vanderbilt, she conducted research in the field of rare disease neuropharmacology, focusing specifically on muscarinic receptor modulation. Ellen is passionately involved with Special Olympics, both at Vanderbilt and in New York City. After graduating a semester early from Vanderbilt, she worked in the field of dermatopharmacology where she was able to confirm her interest in dermatology before medical school. As a student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Ellen has conducted research within the Department of Dermatology in the field of contact dermatitis and market availability of hypoallergenic products. Ellen’s specific career interests include rare disease dermatopharmacology and pediatric blistering disorders. In her free time, Ellen enjoys hanging out with her incredible classmates at Madison Square Park and exploring new restaurants in the city.

Elijah Rodriguez is a second-year student in the three-year MD pathway for dermatology. Growing up in Middletown, NJ, Elijah nurtured a passion for supporting communities through volunteer and outreach projects in various capacities. Elijah attended Harvard College, where he majored in Chemistry and Physics and minored in Spanish. While at Harvard, he deepened his passion for service through coursework and extracurriculars rooted in the intersection of socioeconomic determinants of health and barriers in medicine that impact marginalized communities. Prior matriculating at NYU, he served as a Patient Navigator for Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program to help patients experiencing homelessness receive lung cancer screening. At NYU, Elijah has served as the volunteer chair for the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA), spearheaded an outreach program with LMSA to tutor Jersey City grade students in mathematics, and volunteered with the NYC Free Clinic. During the summer of 2022, Elijah completed the NYU Health Disparities Fellowship with the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at NYU, during which he worked on research investigating outreach dermatologic care and disparities affecting patients with skin of color. Outside of class, Elijah enjoys drawing, running, and surfing at the Jersey Shore.

Nick Roig is a third-year medical student in the four-year MD pathway at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He grew up in Clifton Park, New York, and attended Stony Brook University, where he studied biochemistry and graduated with the Class of 2020. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, he has volunteered with the NYC Free Clinic, is an active member of the Violet Society Student Advisory and Student Wellness Committees, and formerly led the ENT interest group. He is also one of the founding members and co-leaders of No One Dies Alone (NODA) at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, a volunteering organization that pairs medical students with patients on the palliative care service at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. In his free time, he enjoys running along the East River, cooking, seeing Broadway shows, and exploring all that New York City has to offer.

Joshua Ross is currently a fourth-year medical student who is in the MD/MBA program. He is originally from Fair Lawn, New Jersey, and attended Stevens Institute of Technology for undergrad where he majored in chemical biology and minored in philosophy. During his time at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, he has been heavily involved in NYC Free Clinic as the labs coordinator and a clinical student, as co-leader of Mini Meds, a club with the purpose to provide medical exposure to underserved high school and middle school students throughout the New York City area, and as a leader of the Emergency Medicine Interest Group. He has also participated in research projects focusing on the epidemiology of factors leading to differential severities of measles infections as well as a project focusing on virtual discharge counseling of COVID-19 patients during the height of the pandemic. He is currently applying to residency in internal medicine with a goal toward critical care, while also hoping to utilize his MBA degree towards healthcare policy in the future.

Victor Sanchez is a third-year medical student and Admissions Ambassador at NYU Grossman School of Medicine on the four-year MD track. He was originally born in Cuba and immigrated to the United States when he was 6 years old. He grew up in south Florida and did his undergraduate studies at the University of Florida where he studied economics. While attending the University of Florida he was involved in volunteering work with the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit and a local free clinic serving uninsured members of the Gainesville community. Since starting at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Victor has gotten involved with several clubs on campus. He is involved with the NYC Free Clinic where he previously served as finance director and has continued his work in providing care for the underserved. He currently participates in research with the Department of Ophthalmology assessing the cost-effectiveness of surgical interventions and finding ways to improve telemedicine in ophthalmic screening. In his free time, he enjoys exploring the city and rooting for his Miami Heat.

Carlos Sandoval is a second-year medical student in the four-year MD program here at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Carlos was born in Barranquiilla, Colombia, and grew up in Miami, Florida, where he went on to attend Florida International University, majoring in biology and liberal studies. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Carlos has served as president of the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA), co-leader of the Cardiology Club, volunteered at the NYC Free Clinic, and been involved in research in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. In his free time, Carlos enjoys trying new restaurants throughout the city, going to the gym, and playing sports with his classmates.

Nicholas (Nick) Scott is a first-year student in the three-year MD pathway specializing in emergency medicine. He grew up in Newton, Massachusetts. He went to Brown University, where he majored in biology and music. As an undergraduate, Nick worked as an emergency medical technician in the public, private, and collegiate emergency medical services settings. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Nick works as a student course liaison, communicating classmates’ feedback on curriculum delivery to the course directors in the Office of Medical Education. He also spent his summer designing a new EMS elective for medical students at NYU Grossman School of Medicine (the new class will be offered this coming Spring!) Outside of school, Nick sings alto in a local church choir at the Church of the Transfiguration. He enjoys playing the piano and the pipe organ, as well as escaping the city for a hike whenever the opportunity arises.

Walter Sobba is a second-year medical student originally from Whitefish, Montana. Growing up in the backwoods of Montana, he learned to love all things outdoors. Whether hiking, biking, or climbing a tree, he’s happiest under the big sky. Walt studied human biology and Spanish at Stanford University and spent his gap year studying how stay-at-home orders affected dietary behaviors. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, he is part of the four-year MD program. Walt volunteers with the NYC Free Clinic and is a leader of the Plastic Surgery Interest Group and the Community Service Program. Outside the classroom, Walt enjoys scouting the local neighborhood for restaurants and farmers’ markets. He lives in Vilcek Hall and is an avid participant in pool and ping-pong competitions. Walt is planning to pursue a career in global health, and hopes to work abroad in South America. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Walt.

Javier Solis is a first-year medical student in the four-year MD program. He was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, and is the first in his family to attend medical school. He attended NYU for undergraduate school as a Jack Kent Cooke Scholar where he majored in neural science. At NYU, Javier was a learning assistant for the University Learning Center, served as a first-generation college leader, and mentored students within the Department of Neural Science. Outside of medical school classes, he serves as president for the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) and has begun doing clinical research within the Department of Neurosurgery. During his free time, he enjoys swerving around New York City on his bike. Some of his favorite spots to ride include Central Park, Harlem, and Battery Park. He also enjoys playing guitar by the East River. Some of his musical favorites include Christian Nodal, Vicente Fernandez, and Juan Gabriel. He would be more than happy to connect and answer any questions in regards to the medical school application and interview process, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, or New York City.

Brooke Starn is a first-year medical student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine from Danville, California. She received her BA in human evolutionary biology from Harvard University in 2020 and her MPH in epidemiology from the University of California, Davis, in 2022. As an undergraduate, she enjoyed volunteering with the Harvard Chapter of Best Buddies. As a graduate student, she researched telehealth implementation in resource-limited settings. Both at Harvard and at UC Davis, Brooke was a member of the varsity track and field and cross country teams. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Brooke volunteers at the NYC Free Clinic and is a co-leader of the Tachycardia Running Club and Caring for Kids (pediatrics interest group). Outside of school, Brooke loves to run, race, and explore New York.

Elizabeth Stiles is a second-year student in the four-year MD program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She grew up in Syosset, New York. Elizabeth went on to major in neuroscience and minor in philosophy at Swarthmore College. She played on the varsity women’s basketball team and advised student interns as an associate for public health at the Lang Center for Civic and Social Responsibility. During her gap year, Elizabeth worked as a clinical assistant at a private fertility clinic in Manhattan. In addition to being an Admissions Ambassador at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Elizabeth is a doula at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, volunteer at the NYC Free Clinic, Silverstein Scholar, and Students and Trainees Advocating for Resource Stewardship (STARS) fellow. She also conducts research on high-value care and quality improvement in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys running and spending time with friends.

Vishal Sundaram is an MD student in the Class of 2025. He grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from Cornell University in 2021 with a major in chemistry and minors in math and global health. He has a specialty interest in orthopedics and spent the summer of 2022 participating in NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Summer Medical Student Externship Program in Orthopedic Surgery. Outside of the classroom, he helps lead the Arts and Entertainment Club and the South Asian Medical Student Association. In his free time, Vishal likes to sing, listen to, and make music. He is a cellist by training and is working on learning the guitar, piano, and drums. He also loves to cook for others and try all the food that New York City has to offer. If he’s looking to blow off some steam, he enjoys playing basketball with his friends.

Ben Swett is a first-year student in the four-year MD program from Exeter, New Hampshire. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 2021 where he majored in biological chemistry and also played varsity basketball. During his gap year, Ben worked at the Hospital for Special Surgery where he did clinical research in rheumatology and orthopedics. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Ben volunteers as a lab assistant at the NYC Free Clinic and also co-leads No One Dies Alone (NODA), and the IR and Cardiothoracic Surgery Interest Groups. In his free time, Ben likes to play spikeball and basketball with his fellow classmates.

Vinh Ton is a first-year MD/PhD student at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Coming from Austin, Texas, he graduated from Princeton University with a degree in chemistry, where he studied organic photo redox catalysis. In addition to being involved with admissions, he is a volunteer with the NYC Free Clinic, is a member of the Educational Technology Student Committee, and helps organize research and career seminars for the MD/PhD program. Vinh is interested in oncology and aims to utilize a molecular approach to understand cancer mechanisms and to develop new treatments. In his free time, Vinh enjoys landscape, nature, bird, and portrait photography. He likes learning how to cook new dishes and hanging out with friends: whether it is trying new restaurants, exploring the city, or just chatting.

Candace Tong-Li is a first-year medical student in the MD/PhD program. She is originally from New York and later moved to Massachusetts. Candace graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she majored in biology and minored in literature. As an undergraduate, she pursued her interest in neuroscience and studied synaptic transmission and development. She worked on a clinically focused research project in Australia—an international collaboration aimed at improving cancer diagnosis and treatment. After graduation, she worked at Boston Children’s Hospital as part of a timely, ambitious effort to develop safe, effective analgesics for the treatment of acute and chronic pain. Candace aims to combine her research training in neuroscience with translational and clinical impact in cancer treatment. She is currently pursuing a path in neuro-oncology. Ultimately, her goal is to elucidate molecular targets and discover therapies to combat and prevent cancer through understanding the neuro-cancer–immune axis. Candace is grateful for the opportunity to learn at the intersection of scientific advancement and patient care. Candace enjoys writing and illustrating children’s books, and playing violin. She loves spending time with family, being outdoors in nature, visiting museums, and exploring the city.

Jairo Triana is a fourth-year medical student in the four-year pathway and currently works as a student research fellow with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery’s Division of Sport Medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He was born in New York and raised in Miami, Florida. He served four years in the U.S. military before deciding to change career paths to medicine. Jairo graduated with a BS in biology from Florida International University and participated in research at his home institution for one year following graduation. Upon entry, Jairo has participated in multiple student-led efforts including, volunteering at the NYC Free Clinic, participating in the Students and Trainees Advocating for Resource Stewardship (STARS) Sexual Education Program, and filling the role of co-president of the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA), and is an active member of the Black and Latinx Students’ Association (BALSA). He participated in the Orthopedics Research Program in the summer between his first and second year. He has been dedicated to increasing diversity within the student body and enriching pipeline programs for future students. He has participated in multiple programs led by the admissions department and is the current co-chair of the student ambassador program. His interests include fitness and wellness, basketball, water activities, hiking, and traveling.

Neel Vallurupalli is a first-year medical student in the three-year pathway for orthopedic surgery. He was born outside Detroit and lived in Chicago and Connecticut before moving to Clayton, Missouri, for middle school and high school. Neel majored in neuroscience with minors in healthcare management and chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania and was an athlete on the lightweight rowing team. At Penn, Neel conducted health services research at the Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics. Neel then worked for one year in government service at the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services in the Division of New Technology. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Neel serves as Student Council president and co-founded NYU Advance, an organization creating opportunities for medical students in innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology. In his free time, Neel enjoys discovering new cuisines and restaurants in New York City with friends, cycling, and lounging by the water.

Katherine (Katie) Ventre is a fourth year MD/PhD candidate from Cumberland, Maine. She graduated with an honors degree in biochemistry and biophysics from Amherst College, where she studied protein folding kinetics and stability. After college, she spent two years researching the immune microenvironment of pancreatic cancer at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she has been involved in MD and MSTP admissions, the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA), Women of the MSTP (WoMxN), and Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS). She is currently completing her PhD in the lab of Amanda W. Lund, PhD, studying lymph node metastasis of melanoma. When she’s not in lab, she’s most likely to be found at a concert, the back of a used book store, or watching the dogs at the dog park. Four years in, she is still on the search for the city’s best cannoli.

Matthew Xin is a second-year MD/PhD student from Columbus, Ohio. He completed his undergraduate degree at Vanderbilt University, where he studied the role of mucosal immunity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. After graduating with a major in molecular and cellular biology and a minor in neuroscience, he spent a year at Stanford University studying the role of innate immune inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease. On campus, Matthew helps out with student admissions and recruitment for the MD and MD/PhD programs. He also participates in community outreach supporting students who are interested in science in general as well as those interested in physician–scientist careers. In his free time, he enjoys exploring New York City, window shopping for new furniture he can’t afford, trying new restaurants, and swimming and playing tennis with friends.

Michelle Zabat is a third-year student in the four-year MD program from Rochester Hills, Michigan. She graduated from Brown University in 2018 with a degree in human biology and food studies. Before matriculating at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, she served as a U.S. Fulbright Research Fellow to the Philippines and as a strategy consultant in the life sciences, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries. In addition to her work with the admissions department, she serves as a clinical consultant for NYU Langone’s Predictive Analytics Unit, a member of the Student Wellness Committee, and a peer mentor through the Violet Society advising program. She conducts research with the Divisions of Adult Reconstructive Surgery and Spine Surgery within NYU Grossman School of Medicine’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery. Outside of school, she sits on the associate board of the Joyce Ivy Foundation, a nonprofit committed to the academic advancement and leadership development of young women from the Midwest, and on the Mayoral Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in her hometown. Previously, she led the Orthopedic Surgery and Dermatology Interest Groups, the Brothers and Sisters in Science (BASIS) program (a collaboration with New York State’s Science and Technology Entry Program), and the Wine and Food Society. In her free time, she likes to play volleyball in Brooklyn Bridge Park, fly fish in Pennsylvania, and ferment sourdough bread in her tiny kitchen.