Health Professions Advising

UTA's HEALTH PROFESSIONS OFFICE

Our office offers guidance and many resources for students interested in graduate level health professional programs such as medical, dental, pharmacy, physician assistant, optometry, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and veterinary programs. Appointment options are listed near the bottom of this page. Prior to making an appointment, please visit the FAQ Page. Quick questions are always welcome via email [email protected] or [email protected]

Students interested in NURSING, KINESIOLOGY or PUBLIC HEALTH are advised by the College of Nursing and Health Innovation

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MEET YOUR PRE-HEALTH TEAM

Sandy Hobart, MA, CPhT

Program Director of Health Professions

Pre-Medical Preceptorship Coordinator and Instructor

HPAC Chair

Sandy Hobart

Email: [email protected]

Office: Life Science Building, Room 107A

Haylei Dishinger

Health Professions Advisor

Email: [email protected]

Phone #: 817-272-3292

Office: Life Sciences Building, Room 107F

Greg Hale, Ph.D.

Director, UTeach Arlington

Professor of Instruction

JAMP Faculty Director

Greg Hale

Email: [email protected]

Phone #: 817-272-3807

Office: Science Hall, Room 224

Steven Gellman, M.D., MFA, FAAFP

Pre-Med Consultant

Co-Director, Minor Medical Humanities & Bioethics

Steven Gellman

Email: [email protected]

Phone #: 817-272-3843

Office: Life Sciences Building, Room 107G

UTA STUDENT PEER MENTORS

Use the drop down to read their Bio's and then book 1-1 appointments HERE:

FOR PEER MENTORING BOOK HERE

Hey everyone! I’m Jeremiah Joseph, a senior inSTEM scholar and Archer Alumni at UTA. I’m pursuing a triple honors degree in kinesiology, Political Science, and interdisciplinary biology and philosophy, with a minor in biochemistry and leadership honors.

My passion for health equity and policy systems has driven me to explore medicine, teaching, community service, and research. I’ve served as a university-level teacher, medical assistant, and assistant administrator in home health and hospice, and I’ve used videography to support underserved communities.

I started as a research assistant in The Neurovascular Physiology Lab, transitioned to health informatics, and now focus on health policy and public health research in reproductive and maternal health under Dr. Kyrah Brown.

Currently, I lead as president of the Rotaract Club of Arlington and Co-President of the Maverick Health Policy & Advocacy Club, while also serving as Archer Alumni Ambassador.

After graduation, I plan to pursue an MD-PhD or MD-JD. I look forward to connecting with you and supporting your journey as a pre-health student.

 

Hello everyone! My name is Nanthida Inthalangsy but I go by my middle name Mandi. I received my Associates of Science degree from Tarrant County College before transferring to UTA in 2022 where I am currently a senior majoring in Biology with a minor in Medical Humanities and Bioethics. As a transfer, first generation, and pre-dental student, I understand how challenging it can be to find opportunities to shadow dentists, volunteer, and navigate through the journey to dental school without clear guidance. Currently, I am shadowing a general dentist, volunteering with various organizations such as Mission Arlington and Dental Health Arlington, and involved in field research at UTA. As your peer mentor, I hope to support and motivate you throughout your journey as a pre-dental student and serve as a resource for any questions you may have! I look forward to meeting and working with y'all!

Hello! My name is Katelin, and I am currently a senior majoring in Exercise Science. Throughout my undergraduate journey, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to take on various roles, including a teaching assistant for Human Anatomy, the secretary for the Pre-Dental Society, and research assistant at the Cardiovascular Laboratory of Health (CLH).

In my free time, I love hanging out with friends and family, meeting new people, going to concerts, and trying new foods. Although my path is nontraditional, I am eager to help and support you on your journey! Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you’re looking for a friend. I would love to get to know you and share my resources! I look forward to meeting you all! :)

Hello! My name is Tiana and I am majoring in Biology. My passion for helping others and seeking to find more opportunities to help those low in income drives me to engage in community services and mission work, and I hope to take you along with me! 

In my free time, I love to play sports, explore new songs, go thrift, and spend time with my loved ones. Contact me for any questions, or even if you want someone to attend a volunteer event with you. I can't wait to meet you guys!

Hello! My name is Maysa Nashawati. I'm a third-year biology major on the pre-med track. Being a pre-health student can be challenging and overwhelming at times, and I'm here to support you in any way that I can! 

I've previously worked as an ER scribe and am currently working as an ophthalmology technician. I'm also involved in two research labs in the Kinesiology and Public Health departments at UTA and am part of the SURPINT program. Outside of school, I do some clinical volunteering and teach refugee students English. Feel free to reach out for any questions regarding volunteering, clinical hours, or getting involved in research! 

 

Hi everyone! My name is Adam Mahmoud, and I’m a senior biology major on the pre-med track, planning to apply in the coming cycle. I’m passionate about helping others navigate the pre-health path—whether it’s finding extracurricular opportunities, staying on top of classes, or learning how to manage everything without burning out.

Through my experiences in clinical work, research, and teaching, I’ve learned the value of balance, perspective, and staying connected to your goals. If you ever need guidance, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Hi! My name is Christopher Dao, and I'm currently a senior majoring in biology, minoring in neuroscience, and aiming for a Medical Humanities Certificate. As for extracurriculars, I'm involved in a student organization known was Mavericks for Medical Humanities, which helps students connect volunteering, ethics, and the arts with medicine. Along with club activities, I am an undergraduate researcher, shadow various physicians, and am involved in other community-based volunteering, such as being a Vietnamese language instructor and spending time with dementia patients.

On a more personal note, I love playing video games with my family and friends, exploring nature on hikes, and trying new restaurants with my girlfriend. Hit me up if you have any questions regarding the application process, the extracurriculars I'm in, or classwork!

Hello! My name is Kailey, and I’m a Biology major with a focus on pre-dental. I’m excited to share my passion for science to help others with their academic journey. Navigating school while balancing other things can be difficult without support or advice, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or just need someone to talk to! 

Outside of school, I'm probably exploring new restaurants, gaming, or nose deep in a sappy but good romance novel. I'm here to support you guys, so contact me with any questions!

Hi! I’m Kaitlyn, and I am currently a senior majoring in Biology and minoring in Medical Humanities and Bioethics. I am on the pre-dental track and in the process of applying to dental school. I hope to be a helpful resource to all of you who are on a pre-health track or thinking about it. I know that it can be very stressful and challenging, so I want to offer some guidance and be a part of your unique journey! In my free time, I like to read, crochet, bake, and go to concerts! I look forward to working with you!!

Hi! My name is Vaidehi, and I am a junior majoring in Biology on the pre-med track. I know how overwhelming and uncertain the pre-health journey can feel at times, especially in the early years, and I’m excited to share my experiences to help support you in any way I can!

During my time as an undergrad so far, I’ve been fortunate to explore a variety of roles that have shaped my path such as working as a CNA, working as an SI Leader and Mentor, a UGTA for microbiology lab, volunteering and research. I am also very excited to be serving as the social chair for AFM and the external coordinator for HOSA this year. 

In my free time, I enjoy thrifting, hiking, and spending time with friends! If you’re looking for help finding clinical experiences, balancing your academic and extracurricular commitments, or just someone to talk to, I’m here for you! Feel free to reach out with any questions or just to chat. I can’t wait to meet you and be a part of your journey!

UTA ALUMNI MENTORS (CONTACT VIA EMAIL LISTED IN BIO)

Hey everyone! My name is Nina Nguyen, and I am an Internal Medicine PGY-1 resident at UT Southwestern. I was the first in my family to graduate high school and pursue a career in medicine. I have my B.S. in Biochemistry from UTA, M.S. in Medical Sciences from UNTHSC, and my M.D. from UT Health San Antonio. More importantly, I remember being in your shoes at one point. Being pre-med can be difficult, but, with the right people and resources, it can also be thrilling, purposeful, and true to what calls you to medicine. I have mentored over a dozen pre-med and medical students throughout the years, so if you have any questions and want honest and constructive feedback, you can email me at [email protected]. Hobbies: camping, backpacking, art, plants.
Hi all, my name is Johny Morkos and I am currently a 4th-year medical student at TCOM. I graduated from UTA in 2020 with a BS in Biology and minors in Biochem and Psychology. I was involved in various organizations on campus, including MAPS, and still, continue to be part of SNMA in medical school. I also had the privilege to work with Ms. Hobart on the Health Profession Leadership Board as well as be a College of Science Ambassador. I am very passionate about mentorship and I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the guidance I received from several people. I’d love to help you with your medical journey in any way I can. I am also a JAMP student, so feel free to ask me anything about that as well. The best way to reach me is via my school email: [email protected]

Hi everyone! My name is Emma Lou, and I am a dental student at Texas A&M College of Dentistry. I graduated UTA in December 2024 with my Honors B.S. in Biology. As a first-generation student with a passion for dentistry, navigating college came with its challenges. Thankfully, the incredible support from the pre-health team helped guide me every step of the way. 

 

During my time at UTA, I was given the opportunity to serve as Vice President and President of the Pre-Dental Society, become a teaching assistant for Biology, and conduct research for the Honors College. These experiences allowed me to build meaningful connections with others who shaped and encouraged my growth. 

 

In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends, playing pickleball, and discovering new food spots!

 

I am excited to be able to give back and support you on your journey towards a career in healthcare! Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or if you just want to chat! You can email me at [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @emmaloupes 

Hello everyone, my name is Brendon, a UTA alum with a BS in chemistry. I'm a non-traditional applicant with 2 gap years and a first-gen student.  My premed journey started at community college in 2020, and I transferred to UTA in 2022. I am an EMT working for the city of Arlington, and I will be a paramedic in October 2025. I am also working towards becoming a firefighter for Dallas Fire Rescue. I'll be applying to medical school and the Army HPSP during the 2026 cycle. I did research for a while at UNT Health Science Center and UTA, with a publication on the way. If you have any questions about leadership, research, clinicals, volunteering, or just developing a timeline, please send me an email, and I will gladly assist you! This path is even more difficult alone, so utilize every resource you have here at UTA. Just remember, countless students were in your shoes once, including myself, so feel free to reach out! [email protected]

Howdy everyone,

My name is Ryan. I’m an old (no, really) non-traditional student doing a career change, and graduated from UTA in May of ’22 with a second degree under the Academic Fresh Start Provision. More importantly, I just survived the 2022-2023 TMDSAS cycle, and will be attending Long School of Medicine (UT Health Science Center San Antonio) in July of 2023. I’m both relieved and ecstatic!

did full-time school while working full-time (24 hour shifts) as a firefighter/paramedic, and my wife and I had two kids during this period. We just had our 3rd in February of 2023 – thus my medical school years are guaranteed to be a circus.

Optimizing my efficiency was required to make all of this work,and it was not without some pain and sacrifice, but I did it and you can too! While your life no doubt looks different than mine, I am happy to answer questions about any of the pre-med stuff or just give pep talks if needed during this whole ordeal (and it is an ordeal).If I can make any of you feel better about the process I will consider that a win. My email is [email protected]

Keep your chin up and ask for help if you need it! AND LISTEN TO MS. HOBART!!! She will not steer you wrong.Good luck!

Hi everyone, I’m Lydia and I will be attending USUHS starting this summer. I am a non-trad student, career changer, military veteran, and married with 2 kids and 4 pets. 

While at UTA, I was involved in different student orgs, volunteered at the free clinic at Mission Arlington, worked in a genetics research lab, and so many more things! I don’t think it’s necessary to “check every box” on your application but I think it is important to try new things because how else are you going to meet new people, gain experiences/perspective, and be more well-rounded? This journey has helped me grow as an individual and I have learned so much along the way.

I would like to mention that when I decided to quit my banking career and dive into the pre-med world full-time, I chose to do my post-bacc coursework at UTA because I saw how involved Sandy is as a pre-health advisor. I cannot stress this enough: take advantage of the pre-health advising office and all the other FREE opportunities and resources that UTA throws at you! Sandy, Dr. Gellman, and the rest of their team are here to help you achieve! Use them, use people you can trust to give you unbiased feedback on your application, and, of course, use us alumni mentors who have been in your shoes. Feel free to email me at [email protected] - I would love to hear how things are going and try to help in any way I can. Good luck everyone and remember to have fun!

Hey y’all!

My name is Ayman Amiera, and I’ll be attending UNTHSC-TCOM entry year 2024! I graduated from UT Arlington in December of 2022 with a degree in Communications (Public Relations).

I jumped onto the pre-med track in the summer of 2020 with a pretty awful academic track record (academic suspension, multiple F’s, D’s, and W’s on my transcript). I had to “reinvent myself” to show the admissions committees that I could handle the rigor of medical school (upward trend!)

Aside from school, I was very involved in community service with the underserved and vulnerable populations in the DFW area. I also worked as a medical scribe at the local Emergency Department. I genuinely believe these were the highlights of my application!

I wouldn’t have been able to succeed without the help of my mentors. I would love to help you with anything you may need on your journey. From MCAT prep resources, to securing letters of recommendation-anything you need I am happy to help! If I don’t have the answer, I’ll help you find it.

I look forward to hearing from yall! Email me at: [email protected]

My name is Jacob Litsey, and I am part of the 2026 graduating class at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology, with a minor in Biochemistry, from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2021. After graduating from UTA, I took a year off from school and worked as a veterinary technician at a general practice clinic. During that time, I realized that veterinary medicine perfectly aligned with my personal interests and career goals and decided to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. 

 

While the journey of becoming a veterinarian demands an incredible level of dedication and mental fortitude, I cannot think of a more fulfilling career. I look forward to having the opportunity to help others along their journey through veterinary medicine. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions at: [email protected] 

"What’s up everyone! My name is Eric Rios and I am first generation non-traditional senior currently majoring in Kinesiology with a minor in psychology. I was the president of the Pre-PA organization and Co-captain of the UTA Soccer club. In my free time I enjoy playing soccer and dabbling into cars. I am eager to be of use in whatever way I can to assist you all on your path towards your desired health career and look forward to meeting some you! Feel free to contact me at [email protected]."

"Hey Everyone! My name is Randy Ramirez and I graduated from UTA with my B.S. in Exercise Science in December of 2021. I will be starting my physician assistant education at UTSW in May of 2023. During my time as an undergraduate at UTA I worked as a PAL instructor, PT tech, medical scribe, and medical assistant while concurrently participating in volunteer work and serving on the board of the Pre-PA organization as the event coordinator. While balancing everything necessary to make me a competitive applicant for PA school I also continued to pursue my lifelong passion for soccer and had the opportunity to play semi-pro in the UPSL.

As someone who’s lived the very stressful process of applying, interviewing, and eventually deciding on a program to attend; I know I couldn’t have done so without the help of my various mentors. I hope I can be of help to you on your journey to becoming a healthcare professional. If you have any questions or just want to chat feel free to reach out via email at [email protected]."

Hey I'm Reggie. I will be attending UCSF in the Fall. I would consider myself a traditional applicant, four years at UTA and one gap year. I graduated from UTA in May of 2022 with an Honors B.S. in Biomedical Engineering. While on campus, I was usually in the SEIR or ERB enjoying bench research. If not there, in the MAC. Off campus, I was gaining an assortment of clinical experience, volunteering, and going to Whataburger (I'm going to miss it). If you have any questions about pre-med, BME, gap year(s), or the application process feel free to reach out to me. My email is [email protected]. Last but not least, apply for HPAC!

Hi everyone! My name is Omar Elkassih, and I’m currently an MS1 at Dell Medical School. I graduated from UTA in Spring 2025 with a B.S. in Microbiology. During my time at UTA, I was involved in research focused on MRSA and Listeria pathogenesis, something I hope to continue in medical school.

As a first-generation student, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate the pre-med journey. I’m incredibly grateful for the mentors and support systems that helped me along the way, and I’m excited for the chance to pay that forward.

In my free time, I enjoy working out, playing pickleball, and spending time with friends and family. I’m always happy to chat or answer any questions you may have—feel free to reach out at [email protected]!

 

 

Hi everyone! My name is Trung Nguyen. I grew up in Arlington, TX. I went to UT Arlington and majored in biology and had some minor in biochemistry and psychology. I was part of the life changing JAMP program while I was at UTA. I went to UT Southwestern for medical school and right now, doing my neurology residency. I'm interested in epilepsy, sports neurology and neuro ophthalmology. My hobbies include baking, working out and hiking. My passions are in medical education, nutrition and exercise in health, and physical and mental wellness in medical school. Since you're already reading this here's one advice I would tell my younger self: plan efficiently and always seek advice from reliable if you're not sure about career planning. You can email me at [email protected] for any questions.

My name is Stephanie Elbanna and I'm a 1st year Internal Medicine resident at UTMB. Originally graduated from UTA in 2020 with B.S. in Biology and minors in Chemistry and Arabic Language and completed medical school at TCOM. I've spent almost my life in Fort Worth and am passionate about primary care and education. If you need tips, tricks, or help structuring a plan for how to boost your GPA, reach an MCAT target, LOR hunting, interview prepping or personal statement/other essay writing - I'm happy to help. Have extra life stuff that is causing more obstacles? I've been there and we'll get through it together. I'm here to make sure you have the best possible chance to reach your dream. You can reach me via phone: 682-564-2576 or email: [email protected]. Anytime. Can also meet in person or virtually. We'll make it work.

 

"Hey y’all, my name is Rumaila Hussain. I am currently a 3rd year medical student at UNTHSC-TCOM. I graduated from UTA in December of 2019 with a BS in Biology. I was very involved with community service such as Mission Arlington, Prevent Blindness Texas, Hunger Busters, Health clinic at my church, and a Teacher’s Assistant for Early Childhood Development Center at my church. I believe mentorship is extremely important especially when you are a first generation college student and I would love to help you on your journey to medical school. I have mentored 2 pre-med students who got into medical school in 2023. Additionally, you have great faculty at UTA such as Sandy and Dr. Gellman. These two were extremely important in my journey to medical school as they advised me, prepped me, and assisted me with various parts of my med school application. Always use your resources and try your best but never at the cost of your mental health. Take breaks and be confident in yourself! 😊 I have had my fair share of moments of doubt, however I had to learn to remind myself of my WHY. Make sure you take care of yourself because you cannot pour from an empty cup. Lastly, I am currently interested in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. If you ever have any questions, you can email me at [email protected]."

 

Hobbies: making delicious healthy breakfast recipes, volleyball, watching Netflix, and hanging out with my 10 nieces and nephews!


Hey y'all, my name is Caroline, and I'm currently a family medicine PGY-1 at Abrazo Health Network in Phoenix, Arizona! Going backward, I graduated from UTMB's John Sealy School of Medicine this past May 2025. I graduated from UTA in December 2020 with a BS in biology and minor in biochemistry. I was involved in MAPS (fundraising director), Academic Success Center (tutor), and biology dept (lecture TA, recitation leader).

My core values in my personal and professional life are purpose and authenticity. I'd love to talk about lifestyle balance and mental health within medical school if this resonates with you.

I wouldn't be where I am today without the help of numerous mentors, and I'd love to pay it forward. Please feel free to email me at [email protected].

Please note that I will have very limited availability during August, September, and December 2025 and January, March and May 2026 due to very demanding rotations.
Also, please note the time difference between Arizona and Texas.

"Hey everyone! My name is Joanne and I graduated in December 2021 with an Honors B.S. in Biology. I was accepted with scholarships to both UHCO and UIWRSO and I am planning on starting optometry school at UHCO in the fall of 2022! During my undergraduate years, I participated in undergraduate research through the Honors College, was the secretary of the Pre-Optometry Professional Society (POPS), and I was a teaching assistant for BIOL 1333 and 1441. After graduating, I was offered a position as an adjunct assistant professor for the Biology department where I will be teaching labs for BIOL 2457 and 2460. Since the fall of 2019, I have been working at a private practice optometry clinic where I perform pre-testing, collect patient medical case histories, and scribe for the doctors. Throughout my undergraduate years at UTA, I have been able to connect with so many people who have helped me along the way. It is my dream to serve as a guide and motivate students in their pre-health journeys just as others have inspired me! If you have any questions or just want to chat, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected], or direct message me on my optometry Instagram page @eyeamjoanne!"

BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT***

*Due to the construction in the Life Science building, appointments will be offered primarily via Microsoft Teams with some in-person options. Options are listed when booking appointments. Information on Microsoft Teams can be found here

 
***Pre-Health is not a major, therefore, we do not provide a degree plan or remove academic advising holds UNLESS you are a non-degree/second-bacc student NOT completing a degree at UTA. Our goals are to guide, make recommendations, and share expectations to prepare you to be a great candidate for a health professional career.

 

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Select the appropriate BOOKING SERVICE OPTION:

 

~Pre-Health Advising for Current FIRST-DEGREE Students - This appointment is for current or incoming accepted students that have not completed a Bachelor's Degree, seeking guidance on admission requirements, process, and expectations for graduate health professional schools. Please note, academic advising holds are removed by meeting with your MAJOR advisor. Nursing students should seek advising from the College of Nursing.

*NOTE: THIS OPTION IS NOT FOR POST BACC Students, ESSAY REVIEWS, or MOCK INTERVIEWS. See other options below

CURRENT STUDENTS BOOK HERE

  

~Pre-Health Advising for FIRST-DEGREE Prospective/Future Students - This appointment is for prospective students that are not current UTA students and have NOT completed a Bachelor's degree who are seeking guidance on admission requirements, process, and expectations for graduate health professional schools. Nursing students should seek advising from the College of Nursing. For transfer credit information, visit UTA's Transfer Evaluation System Page

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS BOOK HERE

  

~Pre-Health Advising for Non-Degree Seeking or Second Bacc Students (Post Bacc) - This appointment is for students with a completed bachelor's degree that are interested in taking undergraduate courses as a Post-Bacc. We guide and make recommendations to students regarding admission requirements, processes, and expectations of graduate health professional schools. If you took courses at UTA or have been accepted to UTA, include your student ID number. Second-Bacc students need to visit their major advisor to remove academic holds if planning on completing a degree. Post-Bacc students should also visit our Post Bacc Page for detailed information.

*NOTE: THIS IS NOT FOR FOR ESSAY(S) REVIEW OR MOCK INTERVIEWS. See other options below

POST BACC STUDENTS BOOK HERE

  

~Peer MentoringAll pre-health students are encouraged to make an appointment with one of our current pre-health students! They offer general advice on the stressful pre-health path and how to prepare for it since they have been through it!

FOR PEER MENTORING BOOK HERE

 

~Feedback on Essays, Personal Statements, and Application Components - This appointment is for alums and current students applying to a professional school or special program within the year and would like feedback on application components and/or personal statements & essays. **For personal statement or essay feedback, depending on who you are meeting with, email your document to [email protected] or [email protected] at least 48 business hours prior to the appointment. During HPAC applications (Dec-Feb), appointments will only be available with Dr. Gellman. HPAC feedback appointments are available with Ms. Hobart after the HPAC review period.  

FOR FEEDBACK BOOK HERE

 

~Mock Interview Session -This appointment is for alums and current students wanting to practice interviewing for their professional school, JAMP or HPAC Interview. You can schedule your appointment with Ms. Hobart or Dr. Gellman. During HPAC applications (Dec-Feb), interviews can only be booked with Dr. Gellman. You can also utilize UTA's Career Center for additional practice.

FOR MOCK INTERVIEWS BOOK HERE

 

~Medical Career Discussions - This appointment is for prospective, current, and post bacc students that would like to discuss medical training expectations, career interests, and professional practice experiences with with Dr. Gellman. He is eager to share his experiences as a board certified practicing family physician for 30 years and discuss the various opportunities in the medical field with you. 

FOR MEDICAL DISCUSSIONS BOOK HERE