What drew you to the field of medicine?

Witnessing my grandfather battle IBS alongside a plethora of gut-related issues left an unforgettable impression on me. Much of my summer was spent by his bed, observing and imbibing how doctors explained test results, answered questions, and reassured my family in a time of need. Here, I learned that physicians were more than just caregivers; they were guides and comforters. As I began to dive deeper into the medical sciences, I engrossed myself in medical books, gaining hands-on experiences through shadowing and volunteering at local hospitals and clinics and deepening my understanding of pathology through online courses. Slowly, my captivation with the complexity and persistence of diseases turned into a drive to become a physician who could provide comfort and relief to patients through care and research.

What are your plans after attending medical school?

I plan to become a gastroenterologist following my time at the University of South Carolina. With the gut being the body’s 2nd brain, I want to explore this field more to provide a more personalized approach to patient care. By focusing on advancing research in gastrointestinal health, improving diagnostic techniques, and developing more effective treatments, I aim to leave a meaningful impact on my patient's quality of life and contribute to the broader understanding of digestive health.