Degrees: B.S. in Neuroscience, B.A in English, Minors in Chemistry & Spanish
How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
The Stamps Scholarship has profoundly impacted my undergraduate experience by inspiring me to expand the boundaries of my comfort zone. I was able to use my stipend to conduct Alzheimer’s research in Israel at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem for about a month, which was an incredibly unique opportunity and something that I would not have otherwise pursued. I was also able to use some of my stipend to self-publish a book of poetry, which was a dream of mine. With this book, I was able to combine my passions for both literature and medicine, as many of the poems relate to science or medicine in some way.
Tell us a piece of wisdom you’ve learned over the past four years.
You should not measure your own success by comparing yourself to others. This can be especially hard when you are constantly being judged in relation to your peers for grades in a class, for graduate school, or for jobs, but you will never be satisfied if your measure of self-worth is contingent on how someone else is doing. You should be your own standard of comparison, and should feel proud because of how hard you try, not necessarily because of the outcome you achieve.
Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
My college career has been impacted by so many people: extremely supportive friends and peers, inspiring faculty, encouraging mentors, and of course my amazing family. They have all challenged me to be the best version of myself and to always put forth my best effort. I would not have become the person I am today without the help of each of these people!
What’s your favorite Stamps Scholar memory?
The University of Miami Stamps Scholars had an annual dinner with former University President Donna Shalala. I always looked forward to this, as I was able to learn about the different accomplishments of other Stamps Scholars and was able to hear some words of wisdom from President Shalala!
What comes next?
I will be attending the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Go Canes!
Please share your favorite inspirational quote.
“Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.” -Robert F. Kennedy