Medical School Peer Advocates

Class of 2025

Hi everyone, my name is Ahmed and I am an MS4. A little about me: I grew up all over the world from the US to Sweden to the UAE. It's been a journey, but its been great since I call everywhere is home. Hobbies wise, I love being outdoors hiking, swimming, and also growing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (this one is indoors haha!). I have a ton of other hobbies too from cooking to cars so always something to talk about. I got married one month before clerkships so am happy to discuss how to balance school, work, extracurriculars and relationships/family life. Medical school has been humbling in the sense that you won't get anywhere without hard work, mentorship and support of others, and strong planning and mental clarity. Regardless of your circumstance, I hope to be a listening ear and advise or direct you to enable your success. Please don't hesitate to reach out for anytime.

Class of 2025

Hey everyone! My name is Amber Altaf, and I am currently an MS4. I grew up in Birmingham, AL and went to undergrad at Princeton. In my free time, I enjoy doing yoga, catching up on my favorite TV shows, and taking shopping trips to Costco. Starting medical school already burnt out, the transition was rough to say the least. From juggling complex family dynamics to experiencing med school as first-gen, I personally understand the value of not having to manage everything alone. Looking forward to talking with you!

Class of 2025

Hi everyone, I am Kanav and I am an MS4. I grew up in Irving, TX and went to school at Duke University. I spent two years working at a startup in Cincinnati and then decided to apply to medical school. I have loved making Dallas home again and in my free time I enjoy playing basketball and tennis or drawing/doing film photography.

Class of 2025

Hi y’all! My name is Lister. I was born in Cameroon but was raised in Houston since I was 9 months old. After high school, I went to UT Austin, majored in Biochemistry, and entered UTSW the semester after graduating. As a “traditional” graduate, I’ve felt the woes of academic burnout and fatigue that are often worsened by personal life problems. Med school is a hard and unique challenge that few understand, but it’s not impossible! It truly takes a community, and we are here to support and help in any way we can. Feel free to reach out anytime!

Class of 2025

Hey! I'm Viviana, an MS4. I grew up in Puerto Rico for 13 years and graduated from Baylor and UNorth Texas. Aside from school, I am a former dance and yoga instructor who is into books, watercolor painting, and nutrition. Med school is demanding. Loneliness, problems at home, mean self-talk, and more can make it even harder. I'm here to lend you a listening ear because caring for our current selves is just as important as caring for our future selves.

Class of 2025

Hello everyone! My name is Bilal Haque and I am an MS4. I grew up in Dallas and did my undergraduate studies at UT Austin (Hook ‘Em!). I served as a Peer Academic Coach for 3 years during my college years, where I helped students manage their mental health struggles with the stresses of school. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, playing pool, and watching wildlife documentaries. I am excited to continue my passion for uplifting mental health as a Peer Advocate. Medical school is extremely challenging, and I know firsthand that keeping anxieties bottled up just makes everything even more difficult. No stressor or issue is too small to seek help for, so please reach out!

Class of 2025

Hey y’all! My name is Chijindu and I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I majored in Neuroscience at UT Dallas, took a gap year back home doing research at Baylor College of Medicine and trying to explore the world (thanks, COVID), and now I’m an MS4 planning on applying Psychiatry. I love trying out new restaurants, tennis, basketball, music, and traveling as much as I can! The world is a big place and I want to see (and eat) it all! Medical school was a big adjustment for me as it is for everyone, but I think the best advice I received was to never let that make you put your personal life on the back burner. You’re training to be a doctor, true, but you were someone’s friend, sibling, child, parent, or significant other long before you even thought about medical school, so don’t forget them.

Class of 2025

Hi everyone! My name is Ariana, and I’m an MS4. I grew up in Houston and took a couple of gap years before starting medical school. My hobbies include spending time with family, playing tennis, and watching Ted Lasso. For me, being out of school for some time before med school started made the transition a little difficult, but support from people close to me and the friends I made here made a huge difference. Medical school is constantly challenging us in so many different ways, and feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or lonely is really common. I think it’s important to remember that talking to someone who has been through these same struggles can really lighten the load and remind you that you aren’t doing this all on your own. Please reach out if you would ever like to talk, or even just have somebody to listen.

Class of 2025

Hey y’all! My name is Nyssa, and I’m currently an MS4! I was raised in a small town called Sunnyvale, Texas and I lived there until I went out of state to Vanderbilt University for undergrad. I majored in Neuroscience and minored in Psychology. After graduating, I started as a med student here! In my free time, I love to crochet, watch anime, Latin dance, and go to the gym! I definitely stretched myself too thin my first year, but those struggles taught me a lot about myself, and I am here to support you if you ever feel things are getting overwhelming. My support system – friends, family, and my fellow medical students – really helped me through it all. I would absolutely encourage you to reach out for help whenever you need to or want to because there are so many on this campus waiting to help you, including us peer advocates!

Class of 2025

Hey guys! My name is Shivani and I’m an MS4. I’m from Plano, Texas and went to UT for undergrad, where I majored in Biology and minored in Women’s and Gender Studies. I love listening to music, going on walks, and finding new restaurants to try out in Dallas! I wanted to serve as a Peer Advocate because I understand how hard it is to balance medical school courses with the rest of our lives. Sometimes we need some extra support in our lives — let me be a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on. Having the right support system is so important. Please reach out if you need to talk or just want some restaurant recs! We are here for you.

Class of 2025

Hi! My name is Meaghan (she/her) and I’m an MS4. I grew up in Mississippi and attended UPenn for undergrad where I majored in psychology. For my gap years, I stayed in Philadelphia and worked in clinical psychology research. Things that make me happy: exploring new restaurants, cute gifs, impromptu dancing, and lots of naps! I became a Peer Advocate because there were many times my first year that I felt overwhelmed with both personal and academic challenges. The pace of medical school can be unrelenting and often does not fit the messy, chaotic nature of real life. What got me through it (as cheesy as it may sound) was talking with other people who helped me feel less alone. I hope to do the same for other students, so please feel free to reach out about anything! We’re all here for you.

Class of 2025

Hi y’all! My name is Linh, and I grew up in Irving, TX. I graduated from UT Austin with a degree in Neurobiology and took a couple of gap years before starting at UTSW. Outside of school, I enjoy binge watching shows (anime!), napping after a long day of school or an Asian drama marathon, fiber crafts, and researching new restaurants with great vegetarian options to try. Medical school is an experience like no other but please know that you are not alone! I felt extremely overwhelmed my first year and it was my support system that really got me through the toughest times. During this process, I learned that just having someone to talk to can make all the difference so don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to listen, chat about anything under the sun, and most importantly support you.

Class of 2025

Hey everyone! My name is Allante Milsap, and I'm currently an MS4. I grew up in Arlington, Texas, and graduated from UT Arlington with a BS in Biology in 2020. Outside of medical school, I enjoy photography, traveling, and starting random DIY home improvement project! My path to peer advocacy relates to my own difficulties faced during medical school, particularly after losing a parent just weeks before the start of my MS1 year. Looking back, I see that I navigated this experience through the tremendous support I received from others, and I'd love to offer similar support to my peers. Please don't hesitate to reach out – I'm looking forward to getting to know you and supporting you through your medical school journey!

Class of 2025

Hi everyone! I’m Arushii, a current MS4 applying to general surgery this year. With my newfound 4th year free time, I’m excited to explore Dallas a bit more! I love being outdoors when it’s not too hot, and checking out new neighborhoods. I also really enjoy concerts and music festivals and look forward to going to as many as possible! Medical school has definitely been a journey with its ups and downs, with each down feeling like a permanent setback in the moment. But I’ve been able to get through all of those moments so far with the help of friends and family, and finding stress relieving techniques that worked for me. I’m so excited to help you through your down moments as well, no matter what it may be!

Class of 2025

Hey y'all! My name is Madeline, and I love anything outdoors, spending time with my treasure chest of a family, and pretending to be a chef. Medical school has been one of the most challenging seasons of life, and as an MS4 I really hope I can offer some solidarity to other students no matter what year. Sometimes it can be hard to even put into words what you're feeling or how to seek help. We're here to navigate with you! While medical school can feel all-encompassing and often requires the very best of us amidst the growing responsibilities of adulthood, my greatest wish is that the joy you hold for yourself and the people and spaces around you is maintained, if not prioritized. You deserve to be here! We are certainly so grateful you are here.

Class of 2025

My name is Jessica (she/they), and I’m an MS4 from the Dallas area. Outside of school, I like apartment gardening, collecting vinyl records, and hanging out with my dog. The first year of medical school was a rough transition for me, but by reaching out to my support system and Student Wellness, I made it to clerkships and learned a lot about myself in the process. It can be overwhelming to deal with everything that life throws at you, and the stress of medical school doesn’t make that process any easier, but my fellow peers and I are here to make sure you don’t have to handle it all alone. Please reach out if you want to talk!

Class of 2025

Hi everyone! My name is Navoda and I am an MS4 returning from an extra exchange year abroad. I grew up in Alief, Houston, TX and attended the University of Houston, where I majored in mathematics and minored in French. I love to travel and learn languages, and am a huge foodie! You can often find me singing with my guitar or ukulele. Lately I’ve experimented in yoga and crochet, and have been enjoying both! My passions serve double as an outlet for stress and anxiety and remind me who I am. My therapist, my oldest friends and my family have also done the same - and that’s why I pay it forward to be a listening ear and support you, to make this difficult time feel a little more manageable. Most importantly, know you’re not alone. Please reach out!

Class of 2025

Hi everyone! I’m Erin, and I grew up in Houston Texas. I have three very playful black cats named Sam, Phoenix and Jade. I went to the University of Denver in Colorado for undergrad where I majored in biology and minored in psychology and cognitive neuroscience. I also have my cosmetology license, so I love everything health and beauty. Medical school is a uniquely difficult experience; it tests the boundaries of our emotional and mental limits. And real life doesn’t stop happening in the process! I have been through many academic, relationship and family challenges myself in these past 4 years, so please don’t feel ashamed of anything and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

Class of 2025

Hello! I’m Enoch and I’m an MS4. I grew up in Anaheim, CA, the home of Disneyland, the happiest place on earth. I then moved to Texas to attend Rice University where I majored in Neuroscience. In my free time I enjoy trying new restaurants, burning off those calories by exercising, and exploring the great outdoors! Throughout medical school, my family, friends, and church community have provided me with very needed support and encouragement, and I hope to provide similar support to you as well. As a peer advocate, I aim to provide a hopeful and peaceful presence amidst the chaos of life and school. I look forward to meeting you!

Class of 2025

Hey everyone! My name is Krista, and I am an MS4. I am from the Dallas area but went to undergrad at OU (boomer!) before coming right back to Dallas to start medical school. In my free time I love to read, practice yoga, thrift, and do just about anything with the people I love. When I first started medical school, I was extremely overwhelmed and I largely credit my peers with helping me through that first semester. Medical school can be mentally and emotionally challenging for many reasons, so it’s important that we support one another. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at any time for any reason! I am always here to listen and support you!

Class of 2025

Hello everyone! I am Brian, an MS4 from Allen, Texas! I was born in Miami and lived in Oregon for about 10 years before coming to Texas. I went to UTD (woosh) for undergrad where I majored in biomedical engineering before coming here to UT Southwestern. My hobbies include playing/watching soccer, video games, playing the string bass (the tall one) and composing music! I look forward to lending an ear or a shoulder during your time in medical school. It goes without saying that medical school is challenging, but it is also a great time to learn more about yourself while also getting to make a lasting impact in the lives of others. Let me know if you need anything as I will be more than happy to support your journey!

Class of 2025

Hi everyone! My name is Nathaniel, and I am an MS4. I’m from the Houston area and went to Rice for undergrad. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, taking care of my plants, finding new restaurants, and staying active. Medical school can be an extremely difficult transition, but I’ve found that one of the best ways to cope is through finding your niche/support systems. Easier said than done! I’m also in a long distance relationship that has been going on for 3 years so let me know if you want to talk about that as well! Other than that, I want you all to know that you belong here and you got this.

Class of 2025

Hello! I'm Christine and I'm an MS4 dual applying into psychiatry and family medicine. I was born in Houston, TX but spent most of my childhood growing up in Maryland right outside of Washington D.C. I am a huge advocate for balance and making time for passions outside of school. I love training for marathons, bouldering, crocheting, and keeping in touch with my friends and family. Personally, navigating life in addition to school stressors was very tough for me, especially with having my familial support system so far away. I'm passionate about building meaningful relationships and as a peer advocate, I am here to listen to your experience and support you in whatever way best suits you. Whether you are struggling or just want a new friend to chat with, I am here along with the rest of my peer advocate peers!

Class of 2026

Hello! My name is Isabella and I am currently and MS3. I am from Frisco, Texas. I went to undergrad at Indiana University where I studied neuroscience and psychology. I love reading, music and going to concerts, trying new restaurants with my friends, and watching movies. Medical school is challenging and a huge life change, but it can also be a great time to find community and explore the wonderful city of Dallas. I know firsthand that it can be difficult finding balance between school, self-care, and personal life, and this is something that I am working on every day. The peer advocates are always here for you, so please reach do not hesitate to reach out!

Class of 2026

Hello! I’m Magda, an MS3. I’m from Lockhart, TX and went to Stanford University (majored in International Relations). I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Benin and spent eight years working in international public health before transitioning to medicine. Outside of school, you can find me with a book, chai and TSwift piano cover music playing. I also enjoy going for a swim, walking my dog, and trying new restaurants around Dallas. Starting medical school as a non-traditional student with a non-pre-med background was difficult and very overwhelming. You may think that everyone around you has it all together, but you are not alone in feeling like you have imposter syndrome or that you are going through a rough patch. I (along with other advocates) am here for you and want to help – please reach out even for what you may think is a small thing. I’m happy to support you through your experiences.

Class of 2026

Hi! I'm Dev, MS3, and I am happiest out in nature. Coming to medical school was a long and unexpected journey for me. After graduating from UT Austin I lived in a tiny village in the mountains of northwest Thailand for 3 years, teaching first through sixth grade and doing HIV/AIDS education as a Peace Corps volunteer. I absolutely loved it. After Peace Corps I stayed in Thailand and worked as the manager of an NGO that offered health, education and employment services to sex workers. I worked with physicians who volunteered their time and expertise to help the most vulnerable communities in northern Thailand and thought, Sign me up. But I didn't have the guts to commit to medicine, so I did a Master's degree in finance at Yale University instead and worked for several years in finance until I found the courage to quit my comfortable job and apply to med school. I am now 36 and one of the oldest students in my class, but I have no regrets. Ever since Peace Corps I have struggled mentally and emotionally but those struggles have led to so much personal growth. If you are also struggling know that you are not alone. Medical school can feel dehumanizing -- we are expected to achieve, to meet every expectation, to study endlessly as if we were robots. Never forget that who you are outside of your identity as a student as well as your health and wellbeing matter much, much more than anything else. We are here to support you and to listen so please do reach out!

Class of 2026

Heyya everyone! My name is Tyler Bates and I am currently an MS3. I grew up in Elliott, TX (Population: 50) and went to undergrad at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX. I am quite familiar with feeling like a fish out of water, considering living in a metroplex of ~7.6 million people coming from a very rural area, never mind being the first person in my family going for a professional degree. To unwind from med school, I like reading books, watching anime/horror movies, estate sale hopping, and gardening. Whether it is shooting the breeze or having a more serious discussion, I will always be happy to take some time and talk. Just let me know and we can go from there.

Class of 2026

Hi there! I'm Munevver Duran, and I'm an MS3. I was born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey, until I was 10 years old. Then, I moved to Houston, Texas, where I grew up and eventually attended Rice University, majoring in kinesiology and religious studies. When I'm not hitting the books, I absolutely love spending time with my family and friends, latin dancing, whipping up delicious treats in the kitchen, and indulging in some guilty pleasure reality TV. Oh, and I can't forget to mention my super adorable and friendly cat, Rumi. Fun fact: I'm convinced he thinks he's a dog! As your peer advocate, I'm here for you, no matter what. Medical school can be tough, but you don't have to go through it alone. Whether you need a listening ear, some advice, or just a friendly chat, I'm here for you. Let's build a supportive community together, and remember, no problem is too small or too big. Please feel free to reach out anytime – I'd love to connect and be a friend you can count on!

Class of 2026

Hi! My name is Emily, and I am an MS3. I grew up is Denton, TX then went to college at Wake Forest University. In my free time I love playing pickleball, watching movies, and baking. Many people describe me as having the personality of a puppy, because I love to play games and be outside. Medical school is hard, and there is no way I would have gotten this far by myself. If you ever want someone to talk to, we are here for you!

Class of 2026

Hello! My name is Roberto, and I am currently an MS3. I was born in Dallas (at the old Parkland hospital!) but spent the first eight years of my life living in Mexico. I studied Biology and Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin and am now back home for medical school with an eye on Pediatrics as a specialty. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new restaurants with friends, walking Katy Trail with my girlfriend, playing pickup soccer at the student center, and playing videogames. Being the first person in my family to graduate from college and study medicine, I know how hard it can be to navigate these systems for the first time. Medical school comes with many new challenges. Whether these challenges are academic or not, do not hesitate to reach out to your Peer Advocates for help. As students who were once in your shoes, we aim to provide help and guidance for whatever concerns you may have. Feel free to reach out to us for help and resources with whatever obstacles you may be facing!

Class of 2026

I'm Kaylee Grant, an MS3 from Keller, TX interested in pursuing anesthesiology. My path to medical school was somewhat unconventional. I studied Public Policy and International Affairs at Princeton University with the intention of pursuing a career in policy work. However, I realized that I wanted to make a more tangible impact and pivoted to medicine when I had exposure to the field via multiple surgeries for collegiate softball injuries. I took 3 gap years to take prerequisite courses and work as a medical assistant. Medical school is rewarding, challenging, and at times isolating. As someone without any family members in the medical field, it can be challenging to express the unique journey you are experiencing. Whether you are looking for medical school direction, life advice, or just a listening ear, I am happy to support you!

Class of 2026

Hi! I'm Nikita, an MS3 and I'm super excited to meet you! I'm a proud Dallas native and went to UT Dallas for undergrad. Outside of school, you can find me getting a sweat in at hot yoga or Orangetheory, indulging in guilty pleasure reality TV, or spending time with family. Trust me, I understand the rollercoaster ride that medical school can be, but rest assured, you're not alone. I’m here to support you every step of the way and want to make sure your mental well-being remains a top priority throughout! So, whether you need a safe space to vent about school, have a friendly chat, or even find a coffee shop buddy, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Class of 2026

Hello everyone! I'm Alex, and I'm a MS3. I grew up in Chicago and went to the Ohio State University for my undergrad. Outside of school, I'm passionate about staying active, whether it's hitting the gym, embarking on hikes, bouldering at OSO, doing yoga, or engaging in landscape photography. Navigating the demanding journey of medical school can often present many challenges, both academically and mentally. A strong support system is vital to achieving success, and part of my support system consisted of talking to Peer Advocates. These individuals, who have walked in your shoes, provide a unique understanding of the challenges you might be facing. If you ever need someone to talk to, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. You don't have to face these challenges alone. We are here to support you every step of the way!

Class of 2026

Hi! My name is Chidera, and I am an MS3. I attended undergrad at Rice University, where I studied psychology. I’ve lived in quite a few places growing up but have called my little suburb right outside Dallas home for the past 8 years. Outside of school, I enjoy playing tennis, going to concerts, exploring the Dallas food scene, and watching reality television. During my transition to medical school, it was definitely a learning curve to realize how to manage my med school responsibilities while also making time to participate in my hobbies. Juggling the stressors that come with this period of our lives is best done with community and support, and I look forward to being part of your support system! Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to during the lows and to celebrate with you during the highs!

Class of 2026

Hello! My name is Brielle and I’m an MS3. I spent most of my childhood in a tiny town outside of San Antonio and then went to Sam Houston State for undergrad, which is just outside of Houston. Outside of medical school you can find me reading, practicing yoga, learning how to play the piano, or bouldering! I also love Netflix, finding new favorite restaurants, spending time in nature, and being smothered by my rather chunky calico lap-cat, Oowop. Medical school is hard, stressful, demanding, and can be overwhelming at times, but remembering that you’re not alone can work wonders. Support systems are so important, and I’d love to be a part of yours if you need someone to lean on… which we all do at some point. Please don’t hesitate to reach out no matter the obstacle and no matter the size of the struggle. I am here for YOU and would love to support you in any way that I can, even if it’s as simple as offering a listening ear. We’ve got your back.

Class of 2026

Hello hello! My name is Rohini and I'm an MS3 from Carrollton, Texas. I spent most of undergrad doing Environmental Studies, so transitioning from being out in the garden to memorizing 6000 Anki cards a day was not an easy transition. Med school will take every ounce of energy you give it, so it's important to take time for yourself. Outside of school, I spend my time working with local queer orgs, hiking, and teaching my cat Goose how to do tricks. Med school's tough, but I believe every student brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table. Though we’re all capable of success, it's crucial to have a strong support system to get you through tough times. If you ever need advice, want to chat, or just need someone to vent to, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm excited to get to know you!

Class of 2026

Hello everyone! I'm Ammaar, currently navigating the challenges of medical school. My first semester was tough, adjusting to the pace and expectations was harder than I thought it would be. As a Muslim Asian, I've also felt the additional pressure of high expectations from my community and family, which adds another layer to the already demanding medical journey. In my downtime, I'm all about exploring new hiking trails and volunteering, which helps keep me balanced and connected to my community. If you're feeling overwhelmed by school, personal life, or just need an ear, don't hesitate to reach out. We're in this together, and it's okay to seek support when you need it. Let’s help each other stay afloat and make the most of our medical school experience.

Class of 2026

Hi everyone! I'm Priya Kumar, an MS3 here at UTSW. I'm originally from the Midwest, I grew up in Chicago and went to college there as well. I moved to Dallas for the first time to start medical school! Over the past year and a half I've really enjoyed getting to know my peers and the rest of the UTSW community, as well as exploring Dallas and the state of Texas. Transitioning to a new city, alongside starting medical school was definitely a very difficult time for me, and I hope that I can ease the way for future students along with any other problems that my peers may be having.

Class of 2026

Hey y’all! My name is Varsha and I am an MS3 originally from Sugar Land, TX. I went to UT Austin for undergrad and served as a Mental Health Peer Educator, so I am excited to be continuing that work as a Peer Advocate here at UTSW. In my free time, I’m a proud plant mom and an enthusiast of Trader Joe’s, boba, audiobooks, funky earrings, Bollywood dance, and crafting. I know firsthand how overwhelming and challenging medical school can be, and I hope my fellow advocates and I can be an additional source of support. Rember to give yourself grace, listen to your body/take care of yourself, and reach out if you need anything!

Class of 2026

Hi everybody! My name is Neloy Shome, and I am an MS3 in the Class of 2026. I grew up in Lubbock, TX and then spent 5 years in Boston, MA for my undergraduate degree and gap year. Although I struggled with feeling isolated during my first year of medical school, reaching out to a peer advocate helped me feel like the challenges I was facing were important to someone, and I hope to provide that same feeling to others. I love living in Dallas, and some of my favorite activities are watching local sports teams, going to White Rock or Grapevine Lake, and doing a cappella here on campus with the Lymph Notes. I also enjoy cooking, lifting weights, and playing with my cat. I am really looking forward to meeting more people through the Peer Advocate Program and being able to support any student that I can.

Class of 2026

Hi everyone! My name is Medha and I am an MS3. I was born and raised in Dallas and majored in neuroscience at UTD! I love reading, writing, and photography. Bookstores and coffeeshops are my happy places (especially if I have an iced matcha latte in hand) Medical school can test not only your own abilities but the strength of your social support system. I know first-hand how the doubt and stress can be overwhelming, especially when it feels like the most important people in your life can only watch from the sidelines. It’s easy to feel isolated in your experience, but the first step is to talk about it! I am always willing to listen to and empathize with anything and everything you want to talk about: don’t be afraid to lean on someone, especially us peer advocates!

Class of 2026

Hi everyone! My name is Ritu, and I'm an MS3! I grew up in the Houston area and then attended UT Austin for undergrad (hook 'em!). Medical school has undoubtedly been tough, but one thing that I've realized is essential is making time for the things that bring us joy. For me, that often means curling up with the latest unputdownable thriller, baking my next batch of cookies, or attempting (rather unsuccessfully) to teach myself guitar, but I also love doing just about anything with friends or family. Having the support of the people around me has brought me so much comfort throughout medical school, and I hope we can do the same for you. You are absolutely not alone in this journey, and no worry or concern is too small, so please reach out. We're here for you, always!

Class of 2026

Hi everyone! My name is Rhea, and I am currently an MS3. I’m from Spring, TX, and I went to UT Austin, where I majored in Nutrition and minored in Health Communication. In my free time, I enjoy reading mysteries, playing tennis, trying new boba flavors, and spending time with my friends and family! Medical school and graduate school are challenging, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious. Whenever I felt that way, it helped me to reach out to others and ask for help. So please feel free to reach out anytime - you’re here for a reason, and we’re here to support you!

Class of 2026

Hi there! My name is Yukta, and I am a MS3. I grew up in Las Colinas (a suburb of Dallas) and went to UT Austin for undergrad before returning home for medical school. In my free time, you can catch me taking a walk on the Katy Trail followed by a stop at a local pastry shop for a little sweet treat! I am also an avid Dallas Mavericks fan, so when it's basketball season, you can bet I am catching the game that evening! As a peer advocate, I hope to serve as an outlet for all of you and support you all through the journey of medical/graduate school. The process is not easy, but as a peer, I hope to make it a little more bearable and help you identify ways to enjoy the journey!

Class of 2026

Hi! My name is Ahmet and I’m an MS3. I graduated from Texas A&M University in 2022 with a B.Sc. in Biomedical Sciences. I’m originally from Turkey, but I have been living in Texas for almost a decade now. In my free time, I like cooking, practicing Brazilian jiu jitsu, hanging out with friends, catching up on sleep, kickboxing, and playing chess. Medical school can make life very difficult at times. It’s nice to get your questions answered from someone ahead in training. It feels even better to grab a coffee and vent to someone who relates what you’re going through. I’m more than happy to listen, so don’t be shy to reach out!

Class of 2026

Hi everyone! I’m Ruta and I am an MS3 in the MD/MPH program. I was born in India, grew up across different places, and have called the Dallas area (more specifically Plano) home for the past 6 years! I went to undergrad in UT Dallas where I studied neuroscience and psychology. In my free time, I enjoy going on walks and hikes in nature, practicing Indian classical dance (Bharatanatyam), exploring new restaurants and parks, and spending time with family and friends. No matter how strong and capable we are, navigating medical school can feel challenging and all-consuming. While we all start out medical school on a similar pathway, we’ve reached this point with unique experiences, personalities, and interests! Having a strong support system has helped me get through tough times, figure out my new balance, and preserve and find my joys outside of medicine. I’d love to be all ears to anything making you feel stressed or exhausted, no matter how big or small. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone in this journey. We are in this together!

Class of 2026

Hi everyone! I’m Aria, an MS3 from Philly (although I’ve also lived in China, Germany, New York, Michigan, Ohio, and Maryland)! I majored in neuroscience, economics, and psychology at JHU, where I also took my gap year. As an out-of-state student, I thought the beginning of med school was undeniably challenging. This was my first time living in Texas, and with my loved ones a thousand miles away, the adjustment was quite the feat. But let me assure you, it does get better— especially once you find your people and passions here in Dallas. Outside of school, I like to draw, run, and watch adult animation. However, nothing beats hanging out with friends after an exam. If you ever need a sounding board or space to rant over Zoom, a coffee shop, or a leisurely lunch (I’m obsessed with matcha lattes and I’ll basically eat anything), please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Class of 2026

Hello! I’m Zuhair Zaidi and I’m an MS3. I’m a Dallas area native and attended UT Dallas, where I majored in neuroscience. In my free time, I love playing soccer, trying new restaurants, woodworking, and hanging out with family and friends. Medical school has definitely presented its own set of challenges for me, but I was fortunate to have a supportive community around me during tough times. As a peer advocate, I hope to offer the same support to you. Please don't hesitate to reach out at any time.

Class of 2026

Hey y’all! My name is Alea, and I am an MS3 from New Orleans. I went to college in Philadelphia and moved to Texas for the first time to attend UTSW for my MD/MPH. Outside of class, you’d probably find me reading historical fiction, watching Stranger Things for the 100th time, hiking, or shopping (a non-guilty pleasure). I also LOVE making new friends and learning new perspectives. I take mental health seriously and am so excited to be one of your Peer Advocates. Medical school can be incredibly isolating, and my goal is to make you feel seen, heard, and most importantly, respected. Please do not hesitate to reach out – I really look forward to talking to you!

Class of 2027

Hi everyone! My name is Sruja and I'm an MS2 from Sugar Land, TX. I went to UT Austin for undergrad. In my free time I love to play guitar, do jig-saw puzzles, and go on runs and walks usually on the Katy trail! I also have been trying to read more books recently. As a peer advocate, I want you to know that although you might not always feel like it, you belong here, and I want to remind you that you will always be a person outside of medicine. I hope to be there for you in any way I can, whether you are experiencing a stressful situation or just want to talk about what's been on your mind. Please don't hesitate to reach out!

Class of 2027

Hi everyone! My name is Nina and I’m an MS2 interested in neurosurgery and psychiatry! I’m originally from Mesquite, Texas and for undergrad attended Brown University where I studied Neuroscience and Music. For my gap year I moved to Boston to get my master’s before finally deciding to move back to Dallas for medical school (I really missed Texas!). In my free time I love to read, run, listen to music, and play different musical instruments. As someone who struggled with self-doubt (still do), burnout and family illness their first year, I understand how overwhelming and at times isolating medical school can feel. You are capable and you are not alone. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to. I would love to listen and support you.

Class of 2027

Hi guys and gals! My name is Cynthia, and I'm a MS2 interested in child and adult psychiatry. I grew up in Katy, TX and completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Texas at Austin with a human biology degree. My hobbies include long walks/hiking, writing stories, cooking, watching trashy reality TV, and playing sims. I've had my own struggles with mental health throughout my life, so I understand how difficult it can be to navigate those thoughts and feelings. I hope to be a helping hand for you as you navigate medical school.

Class of 2027

Hello everyone! My name is Magan Fosso, and I am currently a second-year medical student. I was born in Cameroon, and I’ve had the privilege of growing up in different places including Indiana, Illinois, and Dallas. I pursued my undergraduate studies at George Washington University, majoring in Biological Sciences. After graduation, I took two gap years. The first year was spent in Houston, Texas, where I completed a Post-Baccalaureate program in Biomedical Sciences and Health Equity. The second year allowed me to gain experience as a research coordinator. Outside of academics, I find joy in running, participating in workout classes, exploring new parks and restaurants, and cherishing moments with friends and family. Medical school is undoubtedly challenging, and it's crucial to hold onto our sources of joy and inspiration—our "whys"—to keep us moving forward. I am excited about the journey we’re on and that we can support and uplift each other along the way. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at any time! You got this, I am rooting for you.

Class of 2027

Hello! I’m Anish, class of 2027! I grew up in Cypress and got my bachelors in biology at UT Austin. Aside from school, my hobbies include lifting, reading, cooking, and going out with friends. Medical school is hard enough, and when life outside of medicine gets demanding, it can feel like too much to handle. Making sure to reach out for help and making time for myself really helped me get through it so far. As a peer advocate, I’m here to provide a listening ear, so please reach out as needed!

Class of 2027

Hi everyone! My name is Antara Gupta and I am an MS2. I grew up in the Dallas suburbs and went to UT Austin (hook ‘em!) where I majored in Neuroscience and minored in Spanish and Social Inequality. In my free time, I love practicing yoga and going to different workout classes, trying out new recipes, and hanging out with my friends and family. I also love exploring new coffee shops in the city while studying. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned about medical school is that it takes a village—rely on your community for support and know that you are not alone when you feel overwhelmed. Also, make sure to take time for yourself because it is important to recharge. As a peer advocate, I am here for you if you want to talk about something specific or just wind down with some fun chats. Please feel free to reach out whenever you want!

Class of 2027

Hey everyone! My name is Neha Kalakuntla, and I’m an MS2! I’m from Plano, TX and went to Rice for undergrad, where I majored in Biosciences and Social Policy Analysis. In my free time, I enjoy running, reading, and finding the best spots in town for Thai food and matcha lattes. Cultivating these hobbies/taking time for myself as well as knowing when to reach out to my friends and peers helped me get through some of the tough times during medical school. As a peer advocate, I’d love to lend a listening ear and help out in any way I can— know that you’re not alone, and there are so many people rooting for you, including me!

Class of 2027

Hello everyone! My name is Katayoun and I’m currently an MS2. I grew up here in Texas and completed my undergrad at UT Austin. In my free time I love playing video games (always single player RPGs), cooking, watching movies/TV, yoga, playing with my cat, and am dabbling in making my own fancy coffees at home. Medical school has the opportunity to be one of the most exciting times of our lives, but I know its no secret that it can be equally stressful at times. I believe in the importance of learning about your own needs and wants as an individual, where you are in your own bigger timeline of life, and being an active author of your life story! This includes setting aside priority time for the things important to you, whether it be family, hobbies, or self-exploration. I want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy med school and work on discovering what fulfillment means to you right now instead of waiting for school to end. I believe that there are no real transition periods in our lives — every day holds equal opportunity for joy and growth as the next. If you ever want to talk about school, where medicine fits into your overall life, the future, or carving out time for what makes you happiest, or just have a friendly shoulder to lean on, do not hesitate to reach out!

Class of 2027

Hi everyone! My name is Chelsi and I am an MS2. I grew up in Corpus Christi and went to Baylor for undergrad. In my free time, I like to hangout with my friends, workout and go shopping. Medical school is challenging and there have been many times I felt overwhelmed. As a first-gen student, I feel like I had no direction when I started school and kind of just had to figure everything out. I had to rely on the support of my family, friends, and older mentors to help me figure out a routine that allowed for a balance between school and my personal hobbies. I am excited to get to know y’all and support you in anyway that I can!

Class of 2027

Hi everyone! My name is John, and I’m an MS2 interested in emergency medicine and psychiatry. I grew up in Texarkana and completed my undergraduate degree at UNT in Denton. I’m a non-traditional medical student, and before medical school, I spent about six years studying to be and working as an attorney in Los Angeles. My favorite hobbies are cooking and exploring the Dallas food scene. Navigating medical school can be tough, but I believe the best way to get through it is by supporting each other throughout this journey. Through peer advocates, I hope students can find a space where they feel comfortable sharing their concerns, knowing they will be received with compassion.

Class of 2027

Hey guys! My name is Sameer and I’m from Sugar Land, TX. I went to UC Berkeley for undergrad and majored in Molecular Biology/Biochem. I spent a year before med school doing neuroscience research in Houston. In my spare time I enjoy playing Ultimate Frisbee and pretending to cook, and you can often find me playing pool in the student center. I am looking forward to being a Peer Advocate because I know how challenging med school can be, and I want to help be part of your support system. I’m excited to get to know y’all this year and help you succeed here at UTSW!

Class of 2027

Hey everyone! My name is Dilan and I’m an MS2. I grew up in Grapevine near Dallas and went to UT Austin for undergrad. During my first year, I tried my best to balance school and incorporate things I love in my schedule. For me this included going to concerts, skateboarding, and spending time with friends and family. This didn’t always pan out the way I wanted, and it would sometimes even feel stressful to prioritize something in my personal life. Without fail, talking to someone and having someone to relate to was always a huge help in feeling more grounded and less like I was going through it alone. If you ever need to talk about anything, I would love to lend an ear!

Class of 2027

Hello! My name is Kacie and I’m an MS2 who is interested in holistic primary care. I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and went to undergrad at Notre Dame (Go Irish!). When I’m not in class or Anki walking, you can find me cooking, taking hikes, teaching, attending mass, creating Spotify playlists, or FaceTiming my family. It was during my gap year of living at a shelter with refugees in Houston that I came to more fully recognize the gift of accompanying people in vulnerable situations and loving them into a better existence. Graduate school (and life in general!) is difficult, and it is therefore so important to lean on others when you need support, especially from those who can resonate with what you’re going through! I treasure meeting others from all walks of life and helping people through challenges big and small. I am happy to listen to whatever is on your mind and be a friendly source of support.

Class of 2027

Hi! My name is Anika Srinath and I'm from Austin TX! In my free time, I enjoy going on walks, hanging out with friends, watching tv, and reading. Medical school can easily get overwhelming, but I have found that prioritizing my hobbies and relationships and organizing my study schedule around my other responsibilities has helped me maintain my mental health. I definitely had a tough adjustment period with medical school, but over time I learned how to balance the stress of school and living in a new city with things that make me feel at peace. If you ever feel lost or just need someone to talk to please don't hesitate to reach out.

Class of 2027

Hi everyone! My name is Mayuri and I’m an MS2. I was born in Chicago and lived in California, India, and Singapore before moving to Texas for college. I went to Rice University in Houston, and my family is based in Austin. I also have a twin brother who did engineering at UT Austin and now works at SpaceX! In my free time, I enjoy indoor cycling, attending concerts/music festivals, and occasionally climbing/lifting/running with friends. I am here to say everyone is different and you have to find what keeps YOU happy and uplifted, that keeps you going throughout medical school. And follow it, with no shame or guilt. Your mental wellbeing has so many implications for your physical health, so do not neglect it!!! I’m always here to chat.

Class of 2027

Hey besties! My name is Heath (he/him), and I’m an MS2! I grew up in Virginia and went to the University of Virginia for undergrad (Wahoowa!). I am a reality TV fanatic, love keeping up with new movies and TV, and am a diehard musical theatre fan. In my spare time I like to perfect my Mario Kart skills and binge Real Housewives. I’ve encountered a lot of bumps in the road throughout life and med school and want to be there to listen when you’re going through it. Or just want to chat! Either way, I want to hear from you!

Class of 2027

Hello! My name is Angela and I’m an MS2. While I spent a brief period being raised by my grandparents in Shanghai, China, I primarily grew up in Houston, TX. I studied Biotechnology B.S. at the University of Houston. Some of my interests outside of school include painting, pursuing creative build projects, playing tennis, and exploring for good food. I’ve always believed strongly in hard work and that it can resolve a lot of things in life. However, sometimes it is not within our control. Life can be hard, sad, unfair, or just "bad karma." In those times, I hope you feel free to reach out to me as your peer and speak about whatever concerns you may have whether it be academics, personal life, or other! Always happy to talk things out, be a listening ear, or just offer my support to you however I can.