Paul Ambrose Scholars
Program
Participant Directory
Washington, DC
June 21-24, 2007
I am from Atlanta, and have lived here my entire life except for the four years I spent in western
Massachusetts at Amherst College. After graduating in 2004 with a B.A. in psychology, I moved
back to Atlanta to work at Emory University where I conducted research on Parkinson’s and
Huntington’s Diseases. Although the people, mice, and rats were great, I moved to a different
part of campus after two years to start at the Medical School.
I have just finished my first year, and although I love it, it is certainly a lot of work. The time that
I do have off is usually spent watching sports, going to movies, or playing tennis. I am hoping to
further my new interest in public health and study ways to overcome disparities in health
literacy. I also hope to learn ways to incorporate preventative medicine into my career as a
physician.
I spent my early years of my life moving from New Jersey to a small retirement community
of Port Saint Lucie, Florida. I enjoyed swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and all the outdoor
activities under the great sunny Florida weather minus the humidity as I grew up.
When I graduated from high school, I was in a dilemma of choosing a college or university
to attend. I had a split decision between a future career in engineering or the health field.
So based on cost, location, and favorite colors I decided to attend my undergraduate studies
at the University of Florida College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. My chosen primary major
was the accelerated two year pre-pharmacy associates degree and the back up was pre-
medicine, some people may call me crazy because of the course load but it was a great
choice. After finishing my two year associates degree, I was accepted into University of
Florida College of Pharmacy and began my studies for the PharmD. Currently I am
beginning my third year of pharmacy school. As a student pharmacist I began an interest in
public health service and considered obtaining a joint MPH. A car ride up to an American
Michael D. Bryant
Emory University School of Medicine
Andrew Alden Chanliongco
School: University of Florida
College of Pharmacy – Gainesville Campus
Pharmacy Association – Academy of Students Mid-year meeting speaking with a friend
about the United States Public Health Service consolidated my interest in public health
service.
Besides career wise plans, I enjoy volunteering for many community service projects; an
interest fostered by mother bringing me to the local American Cancer Society and
American Red Cross offices in my youth. Also I practice Filipino martial arts and enjoy
getting physically fit at the many gyms in the University of Florida. In addition, I practice
the culinary arts and experiment in fusing flavors and tastes from many cultures around the
world. If time permits, I also practice playing the violin and playing in public areas.
Around the time I learned how to write cursive, I also learned how to prick my grandfather’s
finger to check his glucose levels. He always advised me that “you must be the change you wish
to see in the world”, so for a long time, I thought he was repeating a wise Chinese proverb, but I
later realized, to my surprise, that it was first spoken by Gandhi, in Hindi, not in Chinese!
Indeed, the quote translates well across many languages, and conveys the inspirational message
to “be the change”, and not to wait for the change to happen on its own.
Even after my grandfather passed away after a 20 year struggle with diabetes, I have continued
to hold his advice close to my heart, and have called upon it on numerous occasions to guide me.
Memories of accompanying him as his translator during his doctor’s visits illuminated for me the
challenges and frustrations for a non-English speaking patient navigating the intricate maze of
the U.S. healthcare system. Eager to help patients, like my grandfather, gain access to culturally
competent healthcare, I began volunteering at the Stanford medical student-run free clinic,
Pacific Free Clinic, shortly after starting graduate school in the Biochemistry Department at the
Stanford School of Medicine. I have been volunteering at the Pacific Free Clinic for nearly four
years, and am now its Clinic Manager. This is the first year we are developing an initiative in
partnership with the Stanford Asian Liver Center to combat hepatitis B through a comprehensive
three-pronged approach including education, screening & vaccination, and treatment &
monitoring. With each patient we screen and are able to get vaccinated against hepatitis B, we
come one step closer towards our goal of eliminating the greatest health disparity facing the
Asian community, and one step closer to being “the change you wish to see in the world”.
Elizabeth Chao
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world”
–Mahatma Gandhi
When I am not in clinic, not doing research, and not studying, I enjoy dancing, swimming,
camping, playing the piano, listening to opera, and reading and writing poetry. I was born in
sunny Palo Alto, California, went to Palo Alto High School, and graduated from Harvard with a
degree in Biochemistry.
My name is Myrlita Clark RN/BSN. I reside in Philadelphia, P.A. the city of brotherly love and
was educated through the public school system. My mother, a single parent always encouraged,
motivated and inspired me to seek a formal education after high school. However, I decided to
work as a nurse aid; this is how I learned to care for other human beings and that nursing would
become my career. I am a single parent of two wonderful children Sabrina, 19 and Jerrell, 17,
and I stress education to both of them as one of their most important decisions of life.
I started my formal nursing education in 1984, by completing my pre-requisite at Community
College of Philadelphia and obtained entrance into Frankford School of Nursing. I received my
diploma in nursing, became a Registered Nurse and went to work in a long term care nursing
facility. While caring for our elderly citizens, I decided to continue my education at Thomas
Jefferson University and entered the BSN program. In May of 2004, I received my Bachelors of
nursing degree and continued on into the Masters of nursing in the fall of 2004. I am currently
finishing my last semester in graduate school; my goal is to work as a family practitioner and a
nursing educator
When I am not studying I volunteer for various organizations but my fulltime job is in dialysis as
the facility administrator. I spend the majority of my time with the National Kidney Foundation/
Early Evaluation and Education program. This program gives me the opportunity to educate
patients about chronic kidney disease and to participate in a monthly education program titled
(The Kidney Talk). I would also like to create a chronic kidney disease program.
My hobbies are reading, listening to oldies on the radio and my special interest was when I was
the primary instructor for a nursing assistant program.
Finally my ultimate goal is to educate nursing students attending LPN/RN programs and to build
a bridge into our nations nursing shortage.
Myrlita Clark, RN, BSN
Philadelphia, PA
I did all of my prerequisite work for pharmacy school at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro,
Arkansas. This is where I am originally from. I was then accepted to the University of Arkansas
for Medical Sciences College of Pharmacy. Here, I became active in the American Pharmacist
Association Academy of Student Pharmacist (APhA-ASP). The involvement in the association
allowed me to participate in many health screenings, be a member of its executive committee,
and be a political advocate for my profession of pharmacy. Through this association I have been
recognized on a state and national level for my achievements. I have received several
scholarships for leadership, been a top ten finalist in our APhA-ASP Chapter’s Patient
Counseling competition, and been selected as a Pharmacy Today One-to-One Counseling
Recognition Program Recipient.
Currently, I am starting my rotations as a forth year pharmacy student. In the next year I will
have a variety of pharmacy practice sites. My plans for the future are to complete a community
pharmacy residency program.
In my spare time, I like to hunt, fish, and play golf. I also try to be healthy by going to the gym
and running. In March, I completed my first marathon in Little Rock.
I’m a senior dental student at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
in San Francisco, California. I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area but went to school at
Wellesley College in Massachusetts, where I received a B.A. in Chemistry. This past year I
served as President of S.C.O.P.E., Student Community Outreach for Public Education.
S.C.O.P.E. is Pacific’s student-run community outreach and mentorship program. We focus on
serving the many underprivileged populations in the Bay Area and Northern California. Through
the numerous events and projects throughout the year, S.C.O.P.E.’s goal is to educate, prevent
disease, and improve the oral health of the public.
Eric Crumbaugh
Chrystle Cu
University of the Pacific
Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Zachariah (Zack) M. Deyo
Wingate University School of Pharmacy
I am originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan on the shore of beautiful Lake Superior. I
come from a large family as I am the oldest of 4 children. I completed my undergraduate studies
at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI. I chose to attend Wingate University School of
Pharmacy because it is a new and progressive program that offers many early and advanced
clinical rotations and incorporates new technology into their curriculum. They offer courses
such as patient assessment and case studies to help give students experiences that are applicable
to practice. North Carolina’s board of pharmacy is extremely progressive as well. While on
campus I was able to be involved in our Student Senate and several national and state pharmacy
organizations as well as volunteering in many community service events. I feel strongly about
being actively involved in healthcare organizations and community service as well as
involvement on/in interdisciplinary committees and organizations.
I am currently on my clinical rotations in my 4th year of study. I am enjoying rotations so far. I
am most looking forward to my Academic Teaching elective at the school of pharmacy and my
cardiology rotation in January. I hope to complete a post graduate residency upon graduation. I
would like to have a practice site someday with the opportunity to precept students and lecture at
a school of pharmacy.
Outside of the classroom I enjoy mountain and road biking, whitewater kayaking, hiking and
camping. I like to cook, workout and enjoy time with friends and family. My favorite foods are
chicken wings and sushi.
Elaine DePrang
University of Houston College of Pharmacy
Howdy! I am a West Texas girl originally and I moved to Houston about three years ago for
Pharmacy School. I attended Texas Tech University for four years and then after a research
fellowship with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute I decided on a career in Pharmacy.
I am just starting my fourth year of Pharmacy School and I am loving it! My fourth year practice
sites include everything from traditional Retail Pharmacy to Transplant Therapeutics, Critical
Care, and Nutritional Support. In my spare time I also gain valuable experience volunteering at
the HOMEs Clinic, which is a free homeless clinic run by medical, public health and pharmacy
students.
With any extra time I focus on having a great time! For fun I play on the pharmacy intramural
volleyball team, go rock climbing, and play basketball.
Eberenna Egwu
College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Butler University
I am psyched to be finishing up my final year of pharmacy school at Butler University where I
am also minoring in Spanish. I desire to use my Spanish skills to reach out to the Spanish-
speaking community, identify disparities in health care and increase quality health care access
for non-English speaking patients. Currently, I am completing an ambulatory care rotation at a
family practice clinic in Indianapolis. When I am not studying or working up patients, I enjoy
working out at our on-campus recreational facility where I am a personal trainer. I enjoy
chocolate-covered strawberries, long walks on the beach, and am very excited to be a participant
in this year’s Paul Ambrose Symposium.
Miles Farr
I grew-up in a small town in South-West Louisiana near the Texas border. I, like so many
Louisianans, grew up a die-hard LSU fan and graduated from LSU with a Finance degree. My
love for LSU and Louisiana is as strong as ever!
The business experience I gained after college, which included working for a few global
conglomerates over several years, has provided a valuable perspective on globalization. My
field of internal audit and consulting offered the opportunity to travel, which whet my appetite to
see the world. Although I enjoyed my job, after much consideration, I made the decision that
health care was the field that would provide me the most long-term satisfaction. So after
completing the science prerequisites in four different cities, getting married and backpacking
through South America, I find myself in Galveston, Texas working towards my M.D. at The
University of Texas Medical Branch. While I am not sure of a specialty at this time, I am
certain that I want to be involved in Public and International Health in the future.
Alexander Garrard
Mercer University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
I am native of Atlanta, which if you are at all familiar with the city, is a rare phenomenon. My
family hails from Germany where I spent some time every year during my childhood years. I did
my pre-pharmacy coursework at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia – home of the B-
52s and REM. I am much more of a music fan than a football fan, which is a big deal at UGA.
I’m currently in my fourth and final year of pharmacy school rotating at various clinical sites in
Atlanta. By the time I meet everyone, I will have completed my toxicology rotation at the
Georgia Poison Center!
During my third year of pharmacy school, I spent quite a bit of time developing a heart failure
discharge counseling program for indigent patients with heart failure at Dekalb Medical Center.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the patients and empowering them to take control of
their health. I have also done considerable work with a local HIV clinic in educating, not only
the patients, but also the healthcare staff about the disease states they encounter and rational drug
therapy.
When I’m not studying, rounding, or volunteering, I enjoy spending time with my friends,
hanging out at the park, and having in-depth conversations about everything under the sun. If the
activity involves being outdoors and living life, I’ll probably enjoy it.
Joni Goodman
Baylor College of Medicine
I am from the hot and humid paradise of Houston, Texas. I moved here in 2004 after graduating
from Gonzaga University with a degree in Biology and Women’s Studies. I moved here initially
to take a job at Baylor College of Medicine in research, but after 2 years of working I decided to
pursue a more people oriented field in medicine and applied to the Physician Assistant program
at BCM.
I am currently starting my second year at BCM. Although PA school has left me with very little
free time, I have spent some of that time acting as the External Affairs Chairperson of the PA
program to work with all the other students at BCM. I also represented my school in the Student
Association of the American Academy of Physician Assistants Challenge Bowl in May 2007. I
also have a strong interest in Women’s Health and I am planning on doing my Masters Thesis on
a topic in Women’s Health and most likely becoming an OB/GYN PA after graduating.
While I am not in class, I spend my free time planning a wedding. I am getting married to my
fiancé John Ganguzza on December 21, 2007. We also enjoy taking swing dance lessons and we
are planning on doing our first dance to a swing song!
Mera Goodman
Stony Brook University School of Medicine
Born in California, I was raised on Long Island (NY) and then spent eight years in Manhattan.
For four of these years I pursued a B.A. in Biology at Barnard College of Columbia U, spending
the remaining time in management consulting at a couple of firms in NYC. As much as I enjoyed
the intensity and steep learning curves of management consulting - belaboring corporate strategy
projects for diverse clients - my passion for medicine seemed to consistently rear its friendly
face. In addition to my exploration of the business world, I have worked in several labs (e.g.
molecular biology, cardiothoracic surgery, preventative medicine), volunteered in a few clinical
settings (e.g. pediatric ER, pediatric oncology), and participated in community service projects. I
have also spent time overseas involved in healthcare projects. I’ve volunteered in Peru and India
and I will be heading to Madagascar this summer to work on a health care needs assessment of
an underserved community in efforts to establish a university clinic.
I am currently finishing my first year at Stony Brook University School of Medicine. So far,
I’ve had the opportunity to assist in university building activities and to engage in a few outside
interests. I have been gradually building a research study to examine the effectiveness of a trial
unit of a community hospital. In terms of leadership, I’m specifically interested in developing a
condensed, extracurricular leadership and management skills curriculum with a primary focus
within healthcare and prevention that can be offered to the hospital, university students and
greater community.
While my family and friends will always be two of my greatest motivations, I am excited by
additional opportunities life has to offer. Recently this has manifested in my interests of
international volunteering, "entrepreneurialing", traveling, running, snowboarding, loving the
outdoors, and "restauranting".
Priyanka Handa
I am finishing up my first year at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. I earned
an undergraduate Bachelors of Science in Biology in three years as a part of the Medical
Scholars Program (combined BS/MD program in seven years). In undergrad, I started a program
for eating disorder and nutrition education and awareness of eating disorders in the public school
system through an organization called Body Image for Girls & Guys (BIGG).
I am currently solidifying a partnership between our school and a free clinic, which provides
medical service to victims of abuse in the Miami area. My interests include dancing and
traveling.
Gavin H. Imperato
State University of New York
I am a rising second-year medical student at the State University of New
York Downstate College of Medicine in Brooklyn, New York. I was born in New York City and
grew up in Manhasset, Long Island. I graduated from Haverford College in Pennsylvania with a
major in English and a minor in Biology. My interest in public health and prevention developed
through my undergraduate experience as co-chair of Haverford’s Student Health Advisory
Committee, and my work as co-director of a student-run homeless outreach organization serving
Philadelphia. I spent my summers in college working at the New York State Department of
Health AIDS Institute and the Cornell University Medical Center Department of Epidemiology.
After graduating from college, I decided to explore my interest in public health further by
spending a year at the AIDS Institute as a project and research assistant under the guidance of the
Institute’s Medical Director, Dr. Bruce Agins. With the opportunity to work on various
prevention and quality improvement initiatives, I gained an appreciation for the powerful role of
prevention in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
The role of teaching and research in the advancement of medical care is another great interest of
mine. I completed a master’s degree in the Biological Sciences at New York University where I
served as an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Biology. During my graduate studies,
I developed strong interests in immunology, virology, and oncology. I have had the opportunity
to integrate my interest in these disciplines through research I have conducted at Memorial
Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center with Dr. Renier Brentjens, who is keenly focused on developing
an immune-based cure for certain hematologic malignancies. It has been exciting to participate
in studies of this novel therapeutic strategy in which patients’ own T cells are genetically
modified to kill their cancer cells.
I am thrilled to be studying medicine in a place as dynamic as New York City at a time when the
opportunities to effect change for both individuals and populations are so great. In my free time,
I enjoy taking advantage of all the cultural offerings of the city. I also have an avid interest in
the history and arts of Africa, and recently conducted fieldwork in Mali, West Africa on beliefs
and practices related to twins.
Alisa Kachikis
University of Texas Medical Branch
School of Medicine
Galveston has been my home for the past two years, but I am used to
moving and living in different places. While I was growing up, my
family and I lived in Germany for some time and after finishing high
school I moved to Illinois to begin college. I completed my
undergraduate degree at Wheaton Collage, just west of Chicago, with a
double major in German and holistic human health, an interdisciplinary studies major. During
my years at college, I had an amazing professor who introduced me to public health and
preventive medicine, which I have been interested in ever since.
This month I am beginning my 3rd
year of medical school and I am very excited about working
in the hospitals and clinics in and around Galveston. Last summer I had to the opportunity to
complete a pre-clinical preceptorship in central India where I worked alongside a native doctor in
a non-profit clinic. I was also able to conduct a small research project on women’s health issues
while I was there. In addition, some fellow students and I kept busy during the past year by
founding the Public Health Organization (or “PHO” as we call it), a new student organization at
UTMB. The purpose of this organization is to teach students and the UTMB community about
public health and preventive medicine as well as host lectures on current issues pertaining to
disease prevention.
Otherwise, I really enjoy living in Galveston. My favorite thing to do is to go on bike rides along
the gulf with my friends - the gulf breeze is definitely a benefit of living here. I also enjoy
exercising outside and volunteering in an exercise program for kids through the local YMCA.
This year I became a first-time aunt, so a new hobby of mine is visiting my niece as often as
possible.
Mitul Kanzaria
I am from Cherry Hill, NJ, a town outside of Philadelphia, PA. I went to Rensselaer Polytechnic
Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY majoring in Chemical Engineering and Biology. I am a huge fan of
all Philadelphia sports. I enjoy many outdoor activities, including skiing, running, and did I say
skiing?
I am currently a first year medical student at Albany Medical College and am also involved in
research studying the organ donation process and methods on improving donation rates. We are
investigating the use of a Mothers of Donor (MOD) squad intervention program to help families
at the time of donation decision with coping and increase donation rates. Additionally, I am
working with creating a new method of screening breast tumors to determine the most
efficacious treatment. I am also interested in health disparities both on an global level and local
level. I will be traveling to Haiti this summer for a medical mission trip and also work with
Quest kids, an after school program in Schenectady, NY, to help improve the healthcare for these
children.
As this school year winds down, I look forward to the busy summer that awaits me and to the
new challenges that I will be presented with in the upcoming years of medical school.
Sarah Kramer
Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health
I am originally from Washington State. I was raised in a small, country town that rarely makes it
on the maps. After high school, I moved to the big city, Seattle, to attend the University of
Washington. I completed my undergraduate studies there, majoring in sociology. Upon
graduation, I moved to Arizona to begin attending the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral
Health where I am pursuing my D.M.D. degree.
Currently, I am just wrapping up my second year of dental school. I am just beginning to see
patients in the clinic, which is both exciting and overwhelming as there is so much to learn. One
of the greatest qualities about my program is that the mission statement focuses on public health,
which is the reason why I chose this school. I want to be involved with public health dentistry
throughout my career and possibly pursue a Master’s degree in the topic. Right now, I am
involved in a public health project that is addressing the possible link between maternal
periodontal disease and pre-term low birth weight deliveries. The project focuses on oral health
education and access to dental services for a group of expectant mothers in South Phoenix. This
summer I will be participating in a research study that is examining this same topic. I am very
excited about this opportunity as it will be my first research experience and the topic is one of
great personal interest.
Outside of school I enjoy doing almost anything in the great outdoors. Some of my favorites are
soccer, biking, and horseback riding. I also love to spend the weekend hiking and camping with
my fiancé, Michael, and pooch, Emmett. I also enjoy volunteering my time. I spend Saturday
mornings helping at The Therapy Zone, which is a therapeutic horseback riding center for people
with developmental disabilities. And finally, when the Arizona heat becomes unbearable, I
escape by curling up on the couch with a good book to read.
Paul J. Krezanoski
Boston University School of Medicine
I was born in California and lived in both Northern and Southern California until I went to high
school in Massachusetts. I graduated from Middlebury College in 2001 with a degree in
Computer Science and Anthropology. I worked for a couple of years as a software programmer
and then project manager for IBM in Washington, DC before deciding that I wanted to go to
medical school. Before applying to and being accepted at BUSM, I spent two years in the Peace
Corps in Madagascar where I managed HIV and malaria education projects.
I just finished my first year at BU. This summer I will be traveling back to Madagascar to
expand on a mosquito net distribution project I created while in the Peace Corps. I currently
work part-time as an IT and communications consultant at the Joint Learning Initiative for
Children and AIDS at the Francois-Bagnaud Center for Health and Human Rights at Harvard
University. I am also a founding director of Opportunity Solutions International, a non-profit
organization focused on health equity and poverty alleviation projects in Madagascar.
I played four years of varsity basketball at Middlebury and am involved in a couple of leagues in
my spare time. I love to travel, with the goal of seeing a new country every year. I also enjoy
playing chess and walking around Cambridge, Mass with my wife who is a first-year PhD
student in Health Policy at Harvard.
Hello! I am from a small city called Fitchburg, Massachusetts located an hour west of Boston. I
have been a nurse for twenty two years working in public and community health nursing.
I am a third year graduate student at Indiana State University pursuing a Masters in Community
Health Nursing with dual concentrations in Adult Health and Nursing Education. Currently, I
work in school based health in the Fitchburg Public School District focusing my work in
Wellness Policy development, teen obesity, diabetes, and primary prevention efforts to promote
physical activity and nutrition among inner city teens. I am also a Health and Consumer Science
Teacher invested in developing a model to spiral health and wellness throughout middle school
curriculums.
I graduated from St. Vincent Hospital School of Nursing and Fitchburg State College. I am a
member of the Epsilon Beta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau. This spring I kept busy taking classes,
working, and acting as a teaching assistant at ISU for a graduate nursing research class and will
return to that role in the Fall.
I am married and have two boys, ages 14 and 12, and love the Red Sox. When I am not studying
or working I enjoy spending time with my family, jogging, the beach, traveling, and reading. I’m
looking forward to networking and learning about all of my colleagues’ projects at the
symposium.
Shelly Luger
Indiana State University
College of Nursing
Hi everyone, I live in a rural community in Nebraska. I have an undergraduate degree in
biology from Concordia University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from the
University of Nebraska Medical Center. I have worked as a nurse in a variety of settings
including: community health, administration, psychiatry and general medical surgical. Currently
I teach community and public health nursing at a small college in South Dakota (the Missouri
River separates Nebraska and South Dakota where I live). I also attend Indiana State University
working towards my advanced practice nursing degree with hopes of graduation May 2008.
Jacqueline Lessard
I am especially busy this summer. I will be traveling to Chicago to write test questions for the
NCLEX (National Counsel Licensure Exam) for registered nurses. Next I will be heading to
Greeley Colorado to take two 3 credit graduate level transcultural nursing courses. Then my
travels will take me to Washington, DC with the rest of you. This leaves me with one more
course which I will be taking this summer. I will be working on my thesis next year.
When I am not working, involved in organization activities or busy with graduate school
requirements, my husband and I are busy with our four children’s activities. Particularly I enjoy
camping, fishing and gardening.
Zach Marcum
Butler University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
I am originally from Hamilton, OH (near Cincinnati), but I have lived in Indianapolis, IN the
past 5 years as I have made my way through pharmacy school at Butler University. I am
currently in my 6th
and final year of a Doctorate of Pharmacy program. This year I will complete
10 different one-month clinical rotations, which include topics such as oncology, general
medicine, underserved clinics, FDA Office of Special Health Issues, and an Indian Health
Service site in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. After graduation, I plan on completing a pharmacy
residency and eventually pursuing a Masters in Public Health.
I have completed research on a worksite wellness program, which involved conducting health
screenings and calculating health risk assessments for Butler University employees. This initial
research sparked my interest in the field of health promotion and disease prevention, and I am
looking forward to learning much, much more in this field.
In my free time, I enjoy running, playing sports, reading, and traveling. Most recently, I ran the
Indianapolis Mini-Marathon this May.
Michael McCollum
University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-School of Osteopathic Medicine
I have spent most of my life in Southern New Jersey, as a “beach kid” from the time I was born
until I went to graduate school. For college, I remained in the area, working in a local pharmacy
and attending the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and received two degrees, a BS in
Biology and another in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology. I moved to Philadelphia, Pa in 2000
for my master’s degree program at Drexel University, though I did the research portion in
Molecular Pharmacology at the University of Pennsylvania. Returning home, I worked in both
high schools teaching Biology and Chemistry and at the college level teaching Biology courses
such as Microbiology, Anatomy & Physiology and General Biology. I had always desired to be
a physician, and returned to that goal in 2005 as an osteopathic student at the New York College
of Osteopathic Medicine. For year 3, I transferred back towards home at UMDNJ-SOM.
I enjoy many of the area sports, specifically baseball and hockey (Phillies and Flyers), I also
enjoy teaching online college level classes and also MCAT classes for the Princeton Review. In
my remaining time I enjoy reading, exercising, and of course visiting the beach and boardwalk.
Stephanie McKinney
Wayne State University Physician Assistant Program
I was born and raised in Michigan and completed my undergraduate education at Alma College.
I had the opportunity to study abroad at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland before
completing my bachelors of science at Alma and pursuing my interests in medicine as a
physician assistant student at Wayne State University. I am now in my second year of PA school
wrapping up my first rotation in family medicine.
I have always had an interest in education and preventative medicine. I double majored in
biology and education while getting my B.S. and found that my propensity towards being an
educator was a good fit for the PA field. I have also volunteered at a medical clinic in Costa Rica
which helped develop my desire to increase my involvement with the underserved in Detroit’s
community. Currently I have been volunteering at the Cass Community Clinic which helps
provide medical care for the low income and homeless population of Detroit. I would like to see
WSU get more involved with the community, and I am interested in setting up an educational
relationship that aligns Wayne State’s PA Program with the Children’s Center of Detroit. It is a
fantastic program which works with children under the age of 18 that have been placed under the
care of the state of Michigan.
Although school leaves time for very little outside of studying, I also enjoy traveling, art history,
dancing, reading, jogging and spending time with my family and friends.
Anneliese Ruth Millones
Emory University School of Medicine
I grew up in the beautiful (and rainy) city of Tacoma, Washington. I attended and completed my
bachelor’s degree in the University of Washington majoring in Biology and obtaining a minor in
Medical Ethics. During my senior year, I had the opportunity to complete a health internship in
Lima, Peru, which solidified my interest in medicine and working with underserved populations.
After graduating, I spent one year doing research, moved to Atlanta and spent another year
working in a non-profit women’s health center as the Latina Outreach Coordinator. In this
position, I was able to work alongside different groups and individuals working to improve the
health of the Latino population in Georgia. I also became involved with advocacy and lobbied to
improve access to care for immigrant populations.
During my first year at Emory, I continued to work in health advocacy and policy by taking on
leadership roles with the student led organization HealthSTAT (Students Taking Action
Together). Currently, I am on the Board of Directors and coordinating the Health Disparities and
Access to Care issue area. I also am working with fellow medical students to implement a new
Medical Spanish curriculum at Emory starting in the fall. This summer, I am doing research in
the OB/GYN department at Grady Hospital.
In my spare time, I enjoy running in the parks of sunny Atlanta and have recently become a fan
of marathon running (only half so far). I also love to try new foods, listen to live music, play
volleyball and go out dancing.
Tolu Odufuye
My name is Adetolu Odufuye. I go by Tolu. I was born here in the US, but I grew up in Nigeria.
I returned to the U.S. after completing high school in Nigeria. . I graduated with a BS in
Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. I'm finishing my first year of
medical school at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine. I spend my free time site-seeing, shopping,
dancing, playing board games, listening to music, watching TV/movies, going to church and
hanging out with my friends and family. I enjoy meeting and talking to new people and
expanding my knowledge. I didn't include many of my accomplishments because I'm the kind of
person who prefers that my accomplishments speak for themselves. Please ask me about my
accomplishments if you're interested in knowing.
Kirsten Opalach
Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
Hahnemann Physician Assistant Program
“What are you going to do next?” People who know me have recognized I like to have my hands
in a little of everything and am not afraid to take on new tasks. Currently, I am in my second
year at Drexel University in their Physician Assistant (PA) Program. Health policy was one of
my favorite classes. This is a second career for me. I spent twelve years working as an
Ultrasonographer specializing in General, OB/GYN, Vascular and Cardiac Sonography before
deciding to return to school. After spending twelve years scanning ultrasound patients and
giving anatomy and physiology lessons which patients could understand, I realized I wanted to
be more involved in patient care. I am interested in working in a primary care setting and would
like to focus on preventative and occupational medicine upon graduation.
In the event that I might find free time from studying, I like to just hang out with my husband
and two children, read (other than medical texts), go for long walks, travel, and sing. I plan to
stay in the Delaware area upon graduation.
Tina Ptacek
Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health
Hello all! I am a native to sunny and hot Phoenix, Arizona. I grew up loving the Arizona State
SunDevils, and graduated from ASU in May of 2005 with my bachelors in Biology. Two
months after graduating from ASU, I started dental school at Arizona School of Dentistry and
Oral Health.
I have just begun my third year of dental school, and just started seeing patients this past May! I
look forward to each day, as I continue to learn more than I ever thought possible. I am pursuing
a Certificate in Public Health, and have interest in tobacco cessation counseling training for
health care professionals. This summer I will be spending a month doing research with The
Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University, focusing on using microfluidics as a diagnostic
tool in dentistry.
In my free time I enjoy spending time hiking, running, and playing soccer with our school team.
In the fall, you can always catch me on a Saturday at SunDevil Stadium cheering away.
GO DEVILS!!!
Cara Sivils Riley
Though I’ve spent well less than half my life there, I would describe myself as a native of
Florida. While growing up, my mother decided to pursue her dream of being a doctor and
consequently, we moved about every four years as she attended undergraduate, medical school
and then residency. However, we started in Florida and ended there and that is where my family
still lives, so I have a lot of sunshine in my blood. Seeing my mother work long hours and study
late into the night might have convinced me to avoid med school, but instead, I found myself
learning with her loved it. I knew since the tender age of 12 years that I wanted to be a doctor
and have not changed my mind since.
I went to undergraduate at College of the Holy Cross, in Worcester, Massachusetts. There I
remained steadfast to my ambition to be a doctor and completed the Premedical program, but I
also took the opportunity to explore other areas and ended up double majoring in Religious
Studies. It was in college that I further refined my interest in medicine and found that my
passions lie in Women’s Health. Really, I was crazy about all issues concerning women:
women’s health, women’s rights, feminist theology, female empowerment, etc, etc.
Currently, I am at the end of my third year in medical school, at Virginia College of Osteopathic
Medicine. While I no longer would describe myself as an angry feminist (getting married surely
had something to do with it), I am still passionate about Women’s Health and am applying to
Obstetrics and Gynecology residencies.
Though we don’t have much time out of medical school, my husband (who is also a medical
student) and I spend our free time traveling, camping, and day dreaming about the day when we
will be able to afford cable and a dishwasher.
Rebecca Sadun
Keck-USC School of Medicine
I am reaching the end of my fifth year of the MD/PhD program at the Keck School of Medicine
(USC, Los Angeles). Having just completed the PhD (tumor immunology), I find myself
consumed with the excitement and the terror of returning to the wards (remind me where I´m
supposed to place the stethoscope?). I am writing this "biography" from Guatemala, where I am
making a last-ditch effort to learn Spanish before I start seeing patients.
I went to Brown for undergrad and loved it. To my great surprise, I loved the first two years of
medical school as well (though I can´t quite say the same for the PhD years :).
The good thing about the PhD process is that it affords the flexibility of schedule to explore other
interests. Over the past three years I´ve had the opportunity to become increasingly involved in
medical education – at my school, with the LCME (medical school accrediting body), and with
AMSA (American Medical Student Association). Much of the work I´ve done has surrounded
the issue of “patient education,” more broadly – health literacy, health education, primarily in the
arena of preventive medicine.
I first became passionate about the topic after a few memorable patient encounters at our county
hospital (e.g., a poorly-controlled diabetic who proudly told me of his breakfast of pancakes and
maple syrup, which he had instituted five years earlier when told he should stop eating sugar
cereal). These experiences awakened me to the importance of health education. Though a
difficult skill to master, patient education is taught in very few medical schools. But with any
luck, we can change that.
Looking forward to meeting you all!
Kelly Sanderson
The health profession is new to me. I earned my first degree, in astronomy and physics, from
Whitman College. I interned at NASA, and spent a few years developing educational materials
with space-related themes. (While you're in town, check out the scale model of the solar system
in front of the Smithsonian museums...I helped make that!). But I found that I really missed
interacting with people directly, and decided to become a family nurse practitioner.
I got my second bachelor's degree—this time in nursing—from Georgetown University in 2004.
I will graduate from my master's program at Georgetown at the end of this year. In the
meantime, I work nights in an emergency department. When not at school or in the hospital, I'm
usually found herding my 18 month-old daughter away from the dogs' dishes, and trying not to
forget to water my garden.
A singular experience in a children's hospital's ER motivated me to improve my Spanish-
speaking skills; this, in turn, has introduced me to the challenges facing recent immigrants in my
community. I'd like to address some of these barriers during my professional career. In the
meantime, I work on my Spanish as often as I can through classes, travel, and volunteer
experiences; I'm particularly looking forward to a clinical rotation in Mexico this August.
Melissa Sanko
Wayne State University Physician Assistant Program
After growing up in Iowa City, I attended the University of Michigan where I majored in
Biopsychology and Cognitive Neuroscience. Throughout high school and college I participated
in neuropsychological research, focusing mainly on emotional and social perception. During my
junior year, though, I realized that I wanted to more directly impact the healing of others, so I
decided to pursue a career in medicine. Prior to beginning my master’s program, my experiences
were quite varied, including several retail jobs, I served as the Assistant Program Director for
Girls on the Run, a healthy living and running program for preteen girls, and I also worked at
Alexander Mercy Living Center, a nursing home, where I served as a patient advocate.
Currently I am a second year student in Wayne State University’s Physician Assistant Program
in Detroit. I recently began my clinical rotations and hope to concentrate my work in Women’s
Health. Outside of my classroom commitments, I love volunteering and actively volunteer at the
Cass Community Clinic, which focuses on providing medical care to a medically indigent
population living in the medical center area. I also have been involved in St. John’s Specialty
Clinic, which provides uninsured patients with HIV and AIDS treatment at various clinics
throughout Detroit. I have also participated in several Habitat for Humanity builds in Detroit and
across the country, and have worked closely with the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Northeast
Detroit, as well as the Earth Works Garden, an urban gardening project in the city.
Although school leaves little time outside of studying, I enjoy running (especially while listening
to Ira Glass on This American Life), mountain biking, reading, jazz and folk music, cooking,
gardening, watching indie films, and traveling, especially to Iowa and Chicago to visit family
and friends.
Matt Sapko
University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy
I am a third year pharmacy student at the University of Pittsburgh. I attended both undergrad
and pharmacy school at Pitt. In pharmacy school, I am very involved in many of our patient care
initiatives as well as serving in student government and many other organizations. I am
originally from a small town in Northwestern Pennsylvania, Bradford, which is only about 5
minutes from the New York State border. Bradford is famous for Zippo lighters and claims to be
the coldest town in the continental United States– an honor that has never been verified. Much
of my interest in health care and my other hobbies and interests are interwoven with being from
this unique part of the country. Upon completing pharmacy school in two years, I hope to begin
a residency either specializing in clinical pharmacy (particularly Emergency Medicine/Critical
Care or ambulatory medicine) or some type of health care management.
My professional interests include patient’s access to health care, disease prevention, and forming
relationships within health care disciplines for maximum patient health care outcomes. I am also
interested in developing programs aimed at community public health and cardiovascular disease
prevention. In addition, I have begun to work in local free clinics to the underserved in order to
pursue my professional interests and conduct research into providing positive solutions to many
of the current problems facing the health care system and individual’s access to health care.
My other interests include reading, traveling, downhill skiing, and watching Court TV.
Although I live in Pittsburgh and I’m a Steelers fan, I must admit that I like Buffalo Sabres
hockey best – my hometown is actually much closer to Buffalo than Pittsburgh. Two things I
would like to try and improve at before I finish pharmacy school include cooking and ballroom
dancing and I’d like to someday take flying lessons.
Karen Shemanski
Ashley, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
I am originally from Ashley, Pennsylvania, a small town situated between the mountains
of Northeastern Pennsylvania, and located about twenty miles south of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Prior to attending the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, I received undergraduate
degrees in Biology and Political Science and a minor in Philosophy from Villanova University.
While attending Villanova University, I completed the requirements for and served as a certified
emergency medical technician with the university’s twenty-four hour volunteer emergency
medical service.
Recently, I completed my first year of medical school at the Philadelphia College of
Osteopathic Medicine. During my first year, I aided homeless women with mental disabilities at
a local shelter. In addition, I embraced the opportunity to work with children from single-parent
households, entertaining them and assisting them with the development of their reading skills.
Without a doubt, the times spent volunteering at the shelter and with the children were greatly
rewarding experiences.
When not preparing for class and studying, I enjoy lacing up my sneakers and actively
embracing my past as a cross-country runner by going for runs. I also enjoy playing basketball
and an occasional artistic sketch. On those occasions when I return back to my home in
Northeastern Pennsylvania, I involve myself with the Huber Coal Breaker Preservation Society,
a heritage group dedicated to preserving the region’s anthracite mining past. During the spring
and summer, I cheer on the Philadelphia Phillies because for many years, the Phillies triple-A
affiliate played only minutes from my house in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Additionally, during
the winter months I support the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, the AHL affiliate of the
Pittsburgh Penguins.
Molly Strong
Indiana University School of Medicine
I am originally from Cicero, a small town in central Indiana. After graduating from high school I
attended Butler University, where I received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and
chemistry. While working at the Butler Volunteer Center, I developed a passion for helping the
medically underserved. I decided to join the Americorps program and spent the next year living
in Washington, DC and volunteering as an outreach director at a women’s health clinic in
College Park, Maryland. To this day, I still think about all of the wonderful people I met and all
of the defining experiences I had during my Americorp year.
In June, I will be starting my third year of medical school. I currently have interests in women’s
health, adolescent patient advocacy, and developing health systems to better serve the uninsured.
I am also involved at school as a spring formal co-chair. This is the perfect project for me
because I love dancing. I also like to experiment with cooking and take my dog, Bearnardo (or
Bear for short), on walks.
Twelve years ago I was captivated by lights and sirens. Raised in Queens, New York, I became
accustomed to the constant wailing of ambulances near my house. What was first believed to be
an innocent fascination soon became a lifelong career. Prior to starting medical school at the
New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, I was known as the "buff" of my town. After
serving in a couple of ambulance corps and a fire department, I was offered the opportunity to be
Ann Teng
New York College of Osteopathic Medicine
Chief of the Stony Brook Volunteer Ambulance Corps. My experience as chief was the impetus
to further develop my leadership skills today. I was proud to have led the agency to becoming
the New York State Agency of the Year in 2002.
A Bachelors degree in Sociology and Women Studies still left me uncertain of my future. To
buy some time I pursued a Masters degree in Liberal Studies from Stony Brook University. My
Masters thesis entitled "From Quackery to Philosophy, the trend of Osteopathic Medicine in
United States" perpetuated my interest in Osteopathic Medicine. Needless to say, I continue to
receive odd looks from program directors for the use of the word "Quackery." After realizing
Osteopathy was my life's calling, I felt I needed to redeem myself, and currently take pride in
researching and recommending curricula for formal osteopathic education during clerkship
years.
Outside of my life in medicine, I enjoy testing the limits of my body. Currently with a sesamoid
fracture, I continue to participate in kickboxing, tae kwon do, and whitewater rafting. In
addition, my obsession with the Nintendo Wii has culminated into many nights of insomnia.
Lisa Tshuma (pronounced Chew-ma)
Salt Lake City, Utah
Growing up in Salt Lake City, at 16 I caught my first glimpse of life outside Utah as a foreign
exchange student in Chimbote, the largest fishing port in Peru. I subsequently taught English in
Brazil for a year and completed my undergraduate degree in International Studies at the School
for International Training in Brattleboro, Vermont. Although I set off to Zimbabwe intending to
do an undergraduate internship with the ORAP (Organization of Rural Associations for Progress)
in development economics, I ended up spending most of my time in rural HIV prevention
education, malaria prevention, sanitation and nutrition projects. I returned to the US with the
healthcare seed firmly planted in my soul and completed a certificate in NGO Management and
Grassroots Development.
The seed was nourished though health policy coursework at the University of Utah where I
completed a Master of Public Administration. My research focused on “America’s Healthcare
Apartheid: Rx PA?” I firmly believe that PAs can help eliminate health disparities in America! I
am currently beginning my second year as a PA student at the University of Utah. As most of my
clinical experience has been with underserved populations, and as a mother of 3 African-
American children, I am particularly interested in contributing to a healthcare paradigm that
eliminates health disparities and is culturally appropriate.
On a personal note, I am a musician, poet, underwater photographer, and linguist. As a Dive
Master I am also keenly interested in hyperbaric medicine.
Ryan Van Ramshorst
Baylor College of Medicine
Liaison, American Medical Student Association
I am happy to be serving this year as the AMSA Liaison to the Paul Ambrose
Scholars Program. Originally from Southern California, I am currently a first year
medical student at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX. I must admit
that Texas is quite the contrast from my hometown of Placentia, CA (located just
next door to Anaheim, CA, home of Disneyland, the Anaheim Angels, and the
Mighty Ducks). Although quite unique, Houston is a great place to study medicine, and an
almost equally great place to enjoy life outside of the medical center. Aside from my studies, I
am an active member of AMSA, serving this year as the Community and Public Health
Education Coordinator for one of our many Action Committees. I am also involved with the
National Network of Latin American Medical Students (NNLAMS) and the Medical Student
Section of the Texas Medical Association (TMA).
As far as career goals, I see my self having a dual role; both as a primary care clinician
(hopefully in pediatrics) and a children’s health advocate. After graduating from Baylor, I hope
to enroll in a dual MPH/MBA program to expand my knowledge of the current US health care
system, health care reform, and health policy.
In my free time (which is increasingly rare for all of us), I enjoy swing dancing, salsa dancing,
and playing soccer. My favorite hobby, by far, is cooking. When I find the time, I love making
Italian dishes, ranging from bright pasta marinara to flavorful chicken piccata. I’ve decided that
if medicine doesn’t work out, I will become a chef, and hopefully enter the Food Network’s
competition for their next big star. I look forward to meeting and interacting with y’all (as you
can see, I’m starting to pick up a Texas vocabulary).
JING WANG
University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Coming from China, I am currently a first-year doctoral student in University of Pittsburgh
School of Nursing. My research interests focus on health beliefs and adherence in older adults
with various chronic disorders in community settings. Also, due to my background being an
international student in the U.S. from China, I am also interested in qualitative research among
Chinese American seniors to explore cultural influences associated with life style choices and
self management strategies where health disparity issues would also be raised. In addition, I
worked as a Graduate Student Researcher in our school doing data analysis in Center for
Research in Chronic Disorders and worked with my academic advisor on her project developing
innovative technologies for the elderly.
Since my interests on my research are about chronic disorders associated with lifestyle changes, I
love cooking, running and yoga. Basketball is also my favorite, not skilled though.
Kristen Whitaker
Stanford University School of Medicine
I grew up in Queens, NY in a family of 5 that included my mom, my grandmother and my 2
sisters. I graduated from Dartmouth College in 2002 with a major in Psychology and a minor in
Education. Late in my senior year, I decided to pursue medicine. I moved home to NY, enrolled
in evening courses at the City University of New York and took a job with the National Center
on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University.
Currently, I am completing my first year of medical school out on the west coast. I am interested
in community and public health and primary care. Outside of school, I love to read, run, swim
and spend as much time in the California sunshine as possible. My partner and I adopted a puppy
this past fall and spend lots of time entertaining him. I also love to knit and make jewelry
whenever I get the chance.