Health Professions Advising

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! 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!

Hi everyone! I’m Lyla, a senior majoring in Biology with a focus on Pre-Optometry. I’ve already taken the OAT (phew!) and I’m super excited to be applying for the Optometry Class of 2026! I’ve had the absolute honor of serving as the previous President of the Pre-Optometry Professional Society, where I connected with some of the most inspiring future eye care pros, optometrist, and even optometry school admission advisors. When I’m not geeking out over all things eyeballs, you can usually catch me in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes!

Please feel free to reach out or book with me anytime, I'm always happy to help!

Hello everyone! My name is David Lopez. I'm in my third year of undergraduate studies, majoring in biology. I currently volunteer at Medical City Arlington and was part of the Medical Preceptorship class shadowing at Texas Health Arlington Memorial. I am also part of the Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP) 2024 Cohort. As a first-generation student coming from a socioeconomically disadvantaged background, I understand how challenging and frightening the medical route may seem. However, I, along with my peers and instructors, are here to help you along your journey. Our mission is to ensure that we all reach our goals.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing sports, going on hikes, staying active, spending time with family and friends, and teaching. If you have any questions about the pre-medical journey, volunteering, medical organizations, or JAMP, please don't hesitate to contact me or any of our peers or instructors. Thank you for reading, and I hope to be in contact with you soon!

Hi! My name is Noor Maraqa and I am a pre-dental student majoring in Public Health! I love to hang out with friends and family in my free time! I've learned a lot here at my time at UTA, and I can't wait to be a resource for those who are going through the same journey! 

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!

Hi y’all! My name is Matthew Rasmussen. I am a senior double-majoring in biological chemistry and biology and minoring in biochemistry and biology. I am on the pre-med track and planning to take a gap year to gain more clinical experience. I was the President of a student organization on campus called Global Medical Training, and I am now the Trip Coordinator. Being an officer in a student organization has taught me a lot of super important core competencies. I know being a pre-med student can be challenging and confusing, so I am here to help anyway I can. If you have any questions about student organizations, feel free to contact me!

 

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 

Howdy everyone.

My name is Ryan. I’m an old (no, really) non-traditional student doing a career change, and I 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! I 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 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!

Hello everyone,

My name is My, and I am currently an MS4 at Texas A&M COM. I graduated from UTA in 2022 with a BS in Biology! Some meaningful experiences I did during college was scribing for a family medicine clinic, volunteering with Alternative Breaks, and teaching as a PAL. Additionally, I am also a JAMPer aka JAMP Scholar! I am happy to answer any questions to help you as you navigate a career in medicine, so please feel free to reach out to me 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 3^rd 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!"

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]