Student Ambassadors: Long Island

Tzipora Levitt

tlevitt@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Queens, NY
Highest Education: getting bachelors in May as part of the BS/DO program
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): New York Institute of Technology (Life Sciences)
Clubs and Activities: American Medical Student Association, American Medical Women's Association, Maimonides Society, Student Osteopathic Medical Association, American Osteopathic Colleges of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, American Osteopathic College of Anesthesiologists, NYITCOM Student Cardiology Organization, Dermatology Interest Group Association, Physicians for Human Rights, Rock Steady Boxing, Student Ambassador

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I knew that I wanted to pursue a medical career that practiced medicine in a holistic view, and the BS/DO program gave me that opportunity. NYITCOM offers a warm environment, beautiful campus, and is dedicated to providing students with the tools and education needed to become extraordinary physicians.

What is special about NYITCOM? What makes NYITCOM special are the people! The warm, encouraging, and collaborative environment fostered by both staff and students makes NYITCOM extraordinarily unique. This amazing community, coupled with the academic opportunities offered here, instills in students the skills needed to excel in their careers.

What are your future plans and goals? At the moment, I am keeping an open mind about the specific field of medicine I want to practice. I am sure that as I progress through medical school and learn more I will have a better idea about which field of medicine I will be able to contribute the most to. My goal is to practice in New York and give back to this incredible community!

Willard (Charlie) Lipe

wlipe@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Syracuse, NY
Highest Education: M.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Trinity College (B.S. Biology) University of Rochester (M.S. Clinical Investigation)
Clubs and Activities: STUDENT AMERICAN OSTEOPATHIC ASSOCIATION OF ORTHOPEDICS AMERICAN OSTEOPATHIC COLLEGES OF OPHTHALMOLOGY AND OTOLARYNGOLOGY- HEAD AND NECK SURGERY AMERICAN OSTEOPATHIC COLLEGE OF ANESTHESIOLOGISTS STUDENT OSTEOPATHIC SURGICAL ASSOCIATION

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose to attend NYITCOM for the school's exceptional reputation and rigor of academic training. Going to a school that was going to prepare me well to succeed in pursuing competitive residencies was a priority and NYITCOM provided the best opportunity to do so.

What is special about NYITCOM? NYITCOM is unique in that even before stepping foot on campus, you will be making friends and building relationships with faculty that will persist throughout your time here and beyond. While you will absolutely be challenged academically, NYITCOM fosters an environment that will make sure it is done in a healthy way and encourages growth so you leave a well-rounded physician.

What are your future plans and goals? I am pursuing a surgical specialty or anesthesiology residency and hope to end up back in Boston or somewhere in the northeast after my time here at NYITCOM. With a background in research, I hope to someday work at a large academic institution where I can pursue research interest and be involved in driving medical innovation.

Kelsey Liu

kliu28@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Highest Education: B.A.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): New York University (Biology)
Clubs and Activities: American College of Osteopathic Obstetrics and Gynecology The American Medical Women's Association The Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association Dermatology Interest Group Association American College of Osteopathic Neurologists & Psychiatrists

Why did you choose NYITCOM? As a Brooklyn native, I chose NYITCOM because of its proximity to my home, family, and friends. It stood out to me because of its supportive faculty, who are renowned for their dedication to student success.

What is special about NYITCOM? What distinguishes NYITCOM for me is its focus on fostering collaborative learning experiences, facilitated by both the faculty and fellow students. The insights and guidance from upperclassmen have been instrumental in my academic achievements across all my courses.

What are your future plans and goals? At present, my interests lie in dermatology, OB-GYN, and psychiatry, with a long-term aspiration to practice in New York. However, as I progress through each block, I continually discover new specialties that capture my attention.

Allan Mai

amai02@nyit.edu

He/Him

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Old Westbury, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Stony Brook University (Biochemistry)
Clubs and Activities: Rock Steady Boxing, Student Ambassadors, Student Osteopathic Medical Association

Why did you choose NYITCOM? When I was volunteering at Stony Brook University hospital, I interacted with a lot of doctors who were graduates of NYITCOM. They were all excellent clinicians and told me how great NYITCOM was at preparing them to be doctors. Plus, coming here allows me to be close to my family in Brooklyn.

What is special about NYITCOM? The sense of community that the campus has is amazing. Whether it be studying for tests, practicals or CSAs, everyone wants to see each other do well and succeed.

What are your future plans and goals? My interests have always been changing but right now I'm interested in internal medicine because of its flexibility. I can either be a generalist or choose to sub-specialize. Currently, I want to specialize in pulmonology/critical care because of my time volunteering in ICUs during Stony Brook!

Grace Marren

gmarren@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Canisius University (Chemistry)
Clubs and Activities: American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists American Osteopathic Association

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I was draw to an Osteopathic medical education because I believed the holistic approach to patient care which governs it would give me the tools to best serve my patients. I chose to attend NYITCOM specifically because of the beautiful campus and academic rigor that the school provided.

What is special about NYITCOM? During my time at NYITCOM, I have found all the physicians and scholars I have worked with have been incredibly supportive and wants nothing more than success for myself and my classmates. I have never second-guessed or felt foolish for asking for clarification or extra assistance from anyone. I have never felt my classmates were competition, which has fostered a healthy and collaborative learning environment. I have always felt like I belong at NYITCOM.

What are your future plans and goals? At this point, I am unsure which speciality I would like to practice. However, my goal will always be to provide compassionate, patient-centered care to diverse populations of patients. I also may be interested in academic medicine in the future.

Sanah Matin

smatin01@nyit.edu

She/Her/Hers

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Jericho, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Stony Brook University (Biology)
Clubs and Activities: Student Osteopathic Medical Association, Muslim Student Association, Student Ambassador

Why did you choose NYITCOM? Growing up in NY has made the idea of diversity and community two central pillars in my life, and I feel as though NYITCOM has done an incredible job at creating an inclusive learning environment that also parallels these ideas. I am confident that being part of such a community will not only enrich my medical education, but will also shape me into a compassionate and culturally competent physician. Additionally, Long Island is home to me, and attending NYITCOM gives me the opportunity to stay close to my family and friends.

What is special about NYITCOM? The faculty at NYITCOM are all very receptive to the needs of the students, and are very active in gaining the opinions of its student body. This was apparent to me even before I was a student here myself, but now as a student I am able to see first-hand the effort they put in. I once heard that that the rigor of medical school cannot be changed, but it can be altered to be kinder, and I believe NYITCOM has done an excellent job of this.

What are your future plans and goals? Following my graduation from NYITCOM, I hope to gain a residency spot here in NY, though I am currently undecided on the speciality. Ultimately, my goal is to be a compassionate and well-rounded physician, who is able to make a positive impact on her community.

Anna Mienko

amienko@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Queens, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Fordham University (Biology)
Clubs and Activities: Student Organization of Hematology/Oncology American College of Osteopathic Obstetrics and Gynecology American Medical Women's Association American Medical Association Rock Steady Boxing Global Health Organization

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I was really impressed with NYITCOM's supportive environment and dedication to the osteopathic philosophy. From interview day to orientation, I could tell they really care about their students becoming well-rounded physicians, and they also care about their student's wellbeing. This along with the proximity to my hometown in Queens made NYITCOM a perfect choice for me.

What is special about NYITCOM? I love how approachable and receptive the faculty are; whenever I have a problem or concern I know there is always someone to reach out to. I am also really grateful for all the events going on on campus and opportunities to get involved, from guest speakers to workshops to community service opportunities, or even just fun de-stress events.

What are your future plans and goals? I plan to enter a specialty that not only suits my passions and capabilities, but that also allows me to connect with my future patients on a deeper level. I am currently interested in OB/GYN because of the mix of preventative/primary care, procedure, endocrinology, oncology, etc. that it offers, but of course I am still exploring and keeping an open mind as I continue to learn more in these next few years.

Amar Mujevic

amujev01@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Highest Education: B.A.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): CUNY Hunter College (Human Biology)
Clubs and Activities: American Osteopathic College Of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, American Osteopathic College Of Radiology, American Osteopathic Academy Of Sports Medicine, Business & Medicine

Why did you choose NYITCOM? As a New York native, being able to learn in the same communities I grew up in all my life is something I wanted to be a part of and hopefully continue to be in the future as a practitioner. NYITCOM's extensive relationship with the hospitals in the area, welcoming faculty, and plethora of opportunities for students within clubs and research made the choice easy for me.

What is special about NYITCOM? NYITCOM is special because of the community, camaraderie within the student body, and the opportunities around campus help us achieve the degrees of success we strive for. Professors and TAs go the extra mile to get to know us and tailor ways to help us learn from mistakes in a constructive environment, all in the hopes of making us better providers.

What are your future plans and goals? I plan to specialize within either PM&R, Sports Medicine, or Radiology, but as I continue my education, anything can happen! I hope to practice medicine in an urban setting such as NYC.

Andrew Murphy

amurph13@nyit.edu

He/Him/His

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Hauppauge, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Stony Brook University (Biology)
Clubs and Activities: Fit Physicians

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I've found that NYITCOM's curriculum perfectly fit my learning style. Being able to do lectures at my own pace and having lots of hands on practice in labs is the perfect mix of online/ in person learning.

What is special about NYITCOM? The community of students and faculty at NYITCOM is truly special. I've already formed many close friendships with my fellow students this year. Our faculty has also thoroughly impressed me, they are easy to reach out to and very eager to help.

What are your future plans and goals? My specialty of choice changes practically on a weekly basis. Though recently I have been leaning towards psychiatry or radiology. I'd like to stay in NY and practice in an urban or suburban setting.

Gina Nagib

gnagib@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Queens, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): New York Institute of Technology (Biology)
Clubs and Activities: Student Ambassador, American Medical Women's Association, American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose to attend NYITCOM after speaking with alumni and current students who spoke highly of how welcoming and supportive the school was, along with its opportunities in both patient care and research. I appreciated the school's emphasis on diversity and the many opportunities students have to be involved on campus.

What is special about NYITCOM? NYITCOM is special because of the support system you find upon beginning your medical journey from the students to the faculty. NYITCOM is filled with faculty who are invested in helping you succeed and students who uplift one another.

What are your future plans and goals? Although I am currently undecided, I am leaning towards OBGYN. I look forward to beginning my clinical rotations and exploring other specialties. After graduating NYITCOM, I hope to practice medicine in New York.

Abigael Osmanski

aosmansk@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Norwell, MA
Highest Education: B.A.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Bowdoin College (Neuroscience)
Clubs and Activities: American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, Student Osteopathic Medical Association, Rock Steady Boxing, Fit Physicians, Student Ambassador

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I choose NYITCOM because of all that it has to offer. I was especially interested in research opportunities, student organizations, and volunteer opportunities. I was also very impressed by how enthusiastic the current students were in describing the school and how much they loved it.

What is special about NYITCOM? NYITCOM is made up of amazing students and faculty that create a safe and supportive space for learning and growth throughout my medical school journey.

What are your future plans and goals? At this time I am interested in Family Medicine and Neurology, but I plan on remaining open minded throughout the process. I hope to practice in Northeast.

Anthony Pantaleo

apantale@nyit.edu

He/Him

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Dix Hills, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Stony Brook University (Business)
Clubs and Activities: Morale Committee, Fit Physicians, Rock Steady Boxing, Student Osteopathic Medical Association, Weightlifting Club

Why did you choose NYITCOM? When I took postgraduate courses at the undergraduate campus to fulfill application requirements, I noticed the students were very friendly, the professors wanted us to succeed, and the campus was beautiful. I figured I would feel at home here if the medical school were like this. My upperclassmen friends told me they love NYITCOM, so receiving the acceptance email was one of the happiest moments in my life thus far!

What is special about NYITCOM? A student body like that of NYITCOM is hard to find elsewhere, as my classmates have shown inclusiveness and kindness like I have never experienced or seen before. Several organizations on campus, especially Rock Steady Boxing, have also given me a greater sense of belonging and purpose. The campus climate provides comfort and support that makes me feel at home.

What are your future plans and goals? AAMC Careers in Medicine suggested that Internal Medicine, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Psychiatry, and Neurology are overwhelmingly suited to my career goals and personality, but I will stay open-minded on rotations. Additionally, I want to pursue the Academic Scholars program to teach medical school as an assistant professor while running a private practice. Since I am Long Island born and raised, I plan on practicing and teaching locally.

Lauren Nina Peralta

lperal02@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Elmhurst, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): University at Buffalo (Biomedical Science)
Clubs and Activities: First Year Representative for American Physician Scientists Association, American Osteopathic College of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association, ARTery, Rock Steady Boxing, Student Interest Group in Neurology, Student Ambassador

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I choose NYITCOM due to its commitment to shaping well-rounded, patient-oriented physicians. Their dedication to contributing to the innovations in medicine, while fostering a collaborative environment between students and faculty mentors stood out to me. I wanted a place where I could do research and give back to the local community.

What is special about NYITCOM? NYITCOM's emphasis on creating a healthy work-life balance stands out to me, as they continuously encourage us to remember to take care of ourselves as future physicians. From hosting holiday events, promoting mental health counseling services, and establishing faculty mentorship, NYITCOM is a school that strives to make you feel supported.

What are your future plans and goals? I want to work alongside patients who feel their bodies have turned against them to regain control of their lives. Regardless of what specialty I decide, I strive to improve these patients' quality of life and instill hope for the future. As their advocate, I hope my connection with patients will remind them that they are more than their diagnosis.

Betsy Philip

bphili03@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Wayland, MA
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): University of Connecticut (Physiology and Neurobiology)
Clubs and Activities: Rock Steady Boxing, Medical Students For Choice, First Generation Medicine

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose to attend NYITCOM because of the high match rate and comprehensive curriculum. I believe that NYITCOM will help me achieve my goal of addressing health disparities and working with various populations through its excellent academics and the opportunity to learn in a diverse setting.

What is special about NYITCOM? NYITCOM is special because of its community. As a student at NYITCOM, I continue to be amazed by the level of support and compassion that I encounter from classmates, faculty, and administration. NYITCOM’s community made my transition to medical school an enjoyable and positive experience.

What are your future plans and goals? As a first year medical student I am keeping an open mind and exploring multiple specialties. I am currently primarily interested in internal medicine. As a physician, I hope to practice medicine in Boston as I am originally from MA.

Xiaoyao (Joyce) Qu

xqu02@nyit.edu

She/Her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Ellicott City, MD
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): University of Pittsburgh (Neuroscience)
Clubs and Activities: AMERICAN COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC NEUROLOGISTS & PSYCHIATRISTS ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN MEDICAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION AMERICAN OSTEOPATHIC COLLEGE OF ANESTHESIOLOGISTS AMERICAN COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC EMERGENCY PHYSICIANS

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose NYITCOM because of its strong academic reputation, diverse curriculums, and the extensive alumni network. The close connections that NYITCOM has with the community also stood out to me. And lastly, I fell in love with New York/ Long Island area after working here, and NYITCOM seems to be the perfect reason for me to stay here for the next four years.

What is special about NYITCOM? It’s the people that make NYITCOM so special to me. The peers and the faculty are extremely supportive and collaborative. I truly feel that we are trying our best and working together along this difficult journey.

What are your future plans and goals? I am still in the progress of exploring my interest towards a specific specialty. But no matter what specialty I got into, I envision myself establishing strong bond with the community I serve and providing personalized care to each of my patient.

Brandon Rein

brein@nyit.edu

He/Him

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Newburgh, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Worcester Polytechnic Institute (Biochemistry)
Clubs and Activities: American College Of Osteopathic Family Physicians, American College Of Osteopathic Pediatricians, Maimonides Society, Student Osteopathic Medical Association, Nyit Student Government Association-Student Affairs Committee

Why did you choose NYITCOM? After a patient I was close with told me about his grandchildren attending NYITCOM and the success they had, I knew I had to check it out. The freedom of virtual lectures while still enjoying on-campus resources provided the balance I was looking for in my medical education. Additionally, the area was familiar as I have extended family who live nearby.

What is special about NYITCOM? The education is self-driven. You have a lot of freedom as to how and when you learn the material while still having the ability to utilize the many resources provided to you. Secondly, your peers are kind and helpful. I never feel like someone is trying to out-compete me.

What are your future plans and goals? I am interested in primary care. I want to find a field were I can build a business and work with patients and their families for a long time to create healthy lifestyles in my community.

Emma Rivellese

erivelle@nyit.edu

She/her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Shelton, CT
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Brandeis University (Biology and Chemistry)
Clubs and Activities: American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians American Medical Women's Association Maimonides Society Student Osteopathic Medical Association American Medical Student Association

Why did you choose NYITCOM? When looking for a medical school, I knew that I wanted a place that was going to support me academically and provide me with multiple research opportunities. The Ehlers-Danlos and Hypermobility Center here in Old Westbury was a huge reason that NYITCOM was my top choice when considering my options as my main clinical interest is EDS.

What is special about NYITCOM? In speaking to friends attending other medical schools, it is clear that the staff, professors, and the student atmosphere are superior here at NYITCOM. I have never had to wait more than an hour or two to hear back from any of the staff at NYITCOM, regardless of the relevance of my questions to the course material, and they all show genuine interest in meeting and supporting students. With the pass/fail grading system, all students truly care about each other doing well, holding group study sessions, sending helpful resources, and getting excited by each other's success.

What are your future plans and goals? My current goal is to either go into pediatric rheumatology or pediatric genetics with a focus on treating patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and related conditions. I would love to incorporate bench research, clinical research, and direct patient care into my practice. Ideally, I would like to stay in the northeastern portion of the country.

Grace Robinson

grobin03@nyit.edu

She/her

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Port Washington, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Fordham University (Biology, Political Science)
Clubs and Activities: American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians, American College of Osteopathic Surgeons, American Medical Student Association, American Medical Women’s Association, American Osteopathic Association, American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine, Association of Women Surgeons, Community Free Clinic, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Outreach, Rock Steady Boxing Progam, Student American Academy of Osteopathy, Student Osteopathic Medical Association, Student American Osteopathic Association of Orthopedics

Why did you choose NYITCOM? After much debate and a one-way plane ticket to the west coast, I could not be happier that I chose to attend NYITCOM. Campus’ proximity to my family, friends, and New York City is invaluable, offering just enough support and reprieve when needed. While challenging, our curriculum and labs are a constant reminder of my passion for medicine, and why I chose to become a physician in the first place.

What is special about NYITCOM? While I’m excited to graduate and embark on my career as a physician, I don’t want my time at NYITCOM to end. NYITCOM is so special because it’s not merely a stepping stone - it’s an invigorating, uplifting community of classmates and faculty I’ve grown to love and respect immensely.

What are your future plans and goals? I see myself practicing medicine in New York City, as there’s nowhere that quite replicates the energy, chaos, and community I’ve found there. I would love to work in surgery or emergency medicine, as I like to work with my hands but also love interacting with people.

Grant Ruback

gruback@nyit.edu

He/Him

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Hatfield, PA
Highest Education: B.A.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Colgate University (Molecular Biology)
Clubs and Activities: Student Ambassador Program, Global Health Organization, American Medical Student Association, American Osteopathic College of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose to attend NYITCOM for its strong and proven academic curriculum, for its opportunities for community involvement, and for its emphasis on patient-centered care. I knew that by attending NYITCOM I would be well prepared for post-graduate training in almost any field of medicine.

What is special about NYITCOM? NYITCOM is special for its integration of technology into the curriculum and for its vibrant and inclusive campus body. The diverse Long Island campus and its connections to many healthcare institutions contributes to a rich and fulfilling learning experience.

What are your future plans and goals? After graduation, I hope to remain in the northeast and provide care to underserved communities. Although I have not yet decided on a specialty, my current interests are in PM&R, Psychiatry, and Internal Medicine.

Zainab Sami

zsami@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY
Highest Education: B.A.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): CUNY Hunter College (Biochemistry)
Clubs and Activities: First Year Representative Vascular Interventional Radiology Interest Group, Student Osteopathic Internal Medical Association, Cardiology Organization, Muslim Student Association, Global Health Organization, American Medical Women's Association

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose NYITCOM because of its great reputation within the osteopathic medical community, various volunteer opportunities and its connections to top hospitals throughout New York. Giving students early exposure to patient encounters, I knew NYITCOM would prepare me to be a well rounded and culturally competent physician.

What is special about NYITCOM? Something I love about NYITCOM would definitely be the faculty and sense of community that it is built on. I was amazed to see how welcoming and friendly the students and faculty are and how easy it is to approach faculty members for any guidance. I can feel a sense of genuine passion throughout the community to help one another.

What are your future plans and goals? I am currently interested in the field of cardiology but I am looking forward to gaining more exposure to different fields during my rotations. I am also really passionate about global health and would love to work abroad with Doctor Without Borders. Splitting my time working and volunteering at various clinics in underserved areas throughout New York is something I hope to do!

Georgi Savov

gsavov@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Southern Connecticut State University (Chemistry)
Clubs and Activities: American Osteopathic College of Anesthesiologists (AOCA), American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians (ACOEP), American Medical Student Association (AMSA), NYITCOM Global Health Organization (GHO), Student Organization for Hematology and Oncology (SOHO), Student Osteopathic Internal Medical Association (SOIMA), Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA)

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose to attend NYITCOM because of its excellent reputation, close proximity to home and its strong affiliation with clinical and research sites. I felt that the staff and faculty were very welcoming and supportive during the interview and post interview process which made me feel at home. When I first visited the campus, I was impressed by the enthusiasm of the student ambassadors and the cutting edge technology at the ICC sim lab, which solidified my decision to attend NYITCOM.

What is special about NYITCOM? What makes NYITCOM so special to me is the diversity of the student body and the support from faculty professors. It has been amazing to connect with students from across the globe with different background and experiences, as each one of them can bring their unique perspective. I feel that the collaboration between the student body and faculty has been a strong foundation for academic success and personal development as a future physician.

What are your future plans and goals? With my clinical experience as a critical care and emergency paramedic prior to medical school I have developed a strong passion for teaching, intensive care, resuscitation and anesthesia. I am hoping to become an anesthesiologist and further pursue fellowship in critical care. I hope to be able to practice at an academic institution at a medically underserved area along the East Coast.

Jonathan Shadan

jshadan@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Roslyn, NY
Highest Education: B.A.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Macaulay Honors College at CUNY Queens College
Clubs and Activities: Maimonides Society - First Year Representative Granatosky Laboratory

Why did you choose NYITCOM? Having grown up in Roslyn since I was five years old, NYITCOM was always a candidate as I considered my options for medical education. After looking into NYITCOM, its research opportunities, its curriculum, and its mentorship programs, it was clear that NYITCOM was the perfect choice for me. NYITCOM does and continues to stand out to me for the supportive and collaborative environment it fosters.

What is special about NYITCOM? What sets NYITCOM apart is the welcoming atmosphere that it fosters. It is not only a learning environment, but a supportive community through which everyone is rooting for the success of their peers. The upperclassmen are always ready to extend a helping hand to first-year students, and the tutors and academic scholars continuously reinforce the idea that NYITCOM is more than individual achievements; it is about creating an environment where everyone has the proper resources and encouragement they need to thrive in their career.

What are your future plans and goals? Although I am unsure of what specialty I want to pursue, I find great interest in the field of anesthesiology. What I plan to do with my medical degree, regardless of the field I pursue, is to provide high quality care to patients and make a positive impact on their lives. My degree will provide me with the opportunity to apply my knowledge and skills to improve the quality of life for both individuals and communities while continuing to learn and grow as a medical professional.

Mohit Shah

mshah87@nyit.edu

He/Him

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Albertson, NY
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): New York Institute of Technology (Life Sciences)
Clubs and Activities: Student Ambassador American Medical Student Association Student American Osteopathic Association of Orthopedics American Osteopathic College of Radiology

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose to attend NYITCOM due to its proximity to home and the plethora of opportunities the school provides to set students up for success. Having lived in Long Island for most of my life, attending NYITCOM allowed me to stay close to all my current friends and family. Additionally, NYITCOM has a reputation for having a very close-knit student body as well as dedicated and knowledgeable faculty that truly have a desire to help you become the best physician you can be.

What is special about NYITCOM? The first thing that sticks out to me about NYITCOM is the incredible students and faculty that comprise this school. It is incredibly easy to communicate with your peers and professors, which sets the foundation for a collaborative and engaging community in which everyone is incredibly supportive of one another. Additionally, the student body is comprised of a very diverse group of people from all over the world which encourages you to engage with people of various backgrounds and learn new things from them.

What are your future plans and goals? I'm still in the early stages of deciding what field of medicine I would like to dedicate myself to, so I am still keeping an open mind during my classes. However, I am leaning towards a specialization in cardiology or radiology. Additionally, having lived in New York my entire life, I would like to go out and settle down in another state where life moves a bit slower.

Ashish Singh

asing202@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Towson, MD
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): Towson University (Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Bioinformatics)
Clubs and Activities: American Osteopathic Colleges of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, American Medical Student Association. Student Osteopathic Medical Association, Student Osteopathic Internal Medical Association

Why did you choose NYITCOM? I chose to attend NYITCOM because of its great reputation, and statistics. Furthermore, during my interview and events I attended when applying to medical school, NYITCOM was very welcoming, and supportive.

What is special about NYITCOM? The close-knit community and collaborative student body is one of the greatest strengths of NYITCOM. In addition, we have been provided with an abundance of opportunities to get involved in community service.

What are your future plans and goals? Although, I have not committed to a specialty, I currently have interests in ophthalmology, and Internal Medicine. I look forward to immersing myself in various fields of medicine and explore my options during residency.

Tanzeel Sultan

tsulta02@nyit.edu

Campus: Old Westbury
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Highest Education: B.S.
Undergrad/Grad School (Major): University of Toronto (Human Biology)
Clubs and Activities: N/A

Why did you choose NYITCOM? Starting medical school was truly a new chapter in my life as it came with leaving behind my home in Canada. Thus, attending a school with a strong sense of community, an inviting culture of diversity, and a familiar academic structure were all important factors for me. Thankfully, NYITCOM exceeded these expectations all while allowing me to build a home close to my family!

What is special about NYITCOM? Meeting my friends at NYITCOM has been the most special experience of mine so far. Medical school is tough, but the memories we've shared has made it all enjoyable and I am proud to be a part of their story!

What are your future plans and goals? My goals as a medical student is to ultimately be the best physician I can be in whichever speciality this ride takes me towards! I am currently interested in Orthopedics and Sport Medicine, and would love to practice on the east coast where I can be close to my family and friends!