What drew you to the field of medicine?

At about six years old, my parents encouraged me to explore a surgical booth while at the Health Expo in Washington, D.C. Here, I attempted to operate on a teddy bear, proudly exclaiming that he was now all better. This moment marked the beginning of a future dedicated to medicine.

Growing up, I admired the stories of my grandfather, a surgeon in Kyiv, Ukraine. Hearing about the challenging surgeries, miraculous recoveries, and profound impact he had on the lives of his patients cultivated a natural curiosity within me about the medical field. However, it was not until my early teens, having experienced the loss of my great-grandmother following a common surgical procedure, that my innate interest in medicine evolved into a more targeted pursuit.

Eager to explore the medical field further, I delved into premedical courses, pursued research interests in novel cancer therapies, shadowed physicians of various specialties, and volunteered at my local hospital and clinic to observe patient care firsthand. These defining experiences shaped my commitment to providing compassionate care and confirmed my decision to become a physician.

What are your plans after attending medical school?

At this time, my interests lie in neuro-oncology and exploring the many ways I can contribute as an aspiring physician to the healthcare field. I am excited about the opportunities for research and collaboration during my years at USC and beyond. Although I have not yet decided on a particular specialty, I envision contributing to groundbreaking studies tackling formidable diseases, leading health initiatives that bridge access and quality gaps, and fostering a patient care environment rich in empathy and compassion.