Student Spotlights

Pre-Professional Track: Physical Therapy
Major/Minor/Other Special Program: Health and Human Sciences (BA) and Music Industry (BS)
Year Graduated: May 2024
Hometown: Beijing, China
Interests & Special Attributes: Horseback riding, hiking, running, violin
Professional School: Northwestern University Doctor of Physical Therapy

Julia’s Pre-Health Experience at USC

“I was always interested in pursuing something in healthcare, so I chose a major that was broad enough to explore my interests while ensuring I completed most of my prerequisites. Studying at USC was fascinating because of the abundance of opportunities and resources available. I allowed myself to try a bit of everything: balancing life as both a Thornton and Dornsife student, participating in a variety of sports, orchestra, sorority life, outdoors clubs, shadowing and working at several clinics, and pre-professional organizations. These experiences allowed me to meet amazing people and broaden my perspective on what a career in health could look like.

I didn’t settle on physical therapy until my junior year, and I’m thankful for every twist and turn that guided me toward it. My time working in the Pre-Health office, especially, opened doors to resources I wouldn’t have known about otherwise and let me help fellow students along the way. The supportive pre-health community made all the difference, giving me confidence as I navigated my path.”

Julia’s Life Beyond Undergrad

“After graduating, I moved to Chicago to attend Northwestern’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. I completed my first clinical rotation at a hospital in the suburbs this summer, and now I’m in my second year. The program has been challenging and fulfilling. I’ve learned so much through cadaver labs, hands-on skills, patient interactions, and interprofessional collaboration. USC prepared me extremely well: I’ve found myself reviewing old lecture notes and sending thank-you emails to the professors who pushed me hard but taught me so much.

Outside of academics, I’ve enjoyed building a social life and staying active in the community through working with children, engaging in adaptive sports, leading research projects, and volunteering at events such as the Chicago Marathons. Working with people from all walks of life has been inspiring and has made this journey even more rewarding.”

One Thing that Contributed to Julia’s Success

“Being proactive and taking full advantage of what USC has to offer was key. The Pre-Health office, USC faculty, alumni, and student organizations provided guidance and opportunities that shaped my journey. Staying open-minded and saying “yes” to new experiences, whether academic, social, or professional, helped me discover my passion and build confidence. Always try different things and approach opportunities without judgment. For example, when seeking clinical experience, explore different settings and even populations I was initially unsure about. Talk to people, seek mentorship, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A highly respected clinician once told me that students often try to appear independent, but clinicians love when students ask questions and often worry if they don’t. That perspective helped me overcome impostor syndrome. Every experience adds value.”

Julia’s Advice for Pre-Health Students

“It’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. I went back and forth between music and healthcare, and that uncertainty taught me to embrace flexibility. Take your time, explore different interests, and don’t be afraid to pivot. Put yourself out there, be authentic, and enjoy the process. It’s okay if your experiences or hobbies don’t seem connected on paper, because at the end of the day, they make up who you are and that uniqueness is your strength. Stay curious, ask questions, seek mentorship, and reflect on what genuinely excites you. Ultimately, success isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about becoming the kind of healthcare provider who approaches every interaction with empathy and purpose: think with your head, but treat with your heart.”

Pre-Professional Track: Pre-Med
Major/Minor/Other Special Program: Neuroscience Honors Major, Political Science Minor 
Year Graduated: 2026
Hometown: St. Thomas, Virgin Islands 
Interests & Special Attributes: Hiking, Traveling, Running, Tennis, Spin Classes  

Kashish’s Pre-Health Experience at USC

“My pre-health experience at USC has been shaped by a combination of academic rigor, clinical exposure, and research. As a Neuroscience Honors major, I’ve explored the biological foundations of behavior while simultaneously broadening my understanding of systemic inequalities through my Political Science minor. Hands-on experiences, such as shadowing physicians and working in the field, gave me an early and realistic view of medicine, patient care, and the disparities that exist in under-resourced communities.

At USC, my involvement in clinical and research settings further strengthened my interest in medicine. Through the Infant Neuromotor Control Lab, I’ve learned data analysis, scientific communication and the patience and curiosity required in research. Through groups like the Emergency Medicine Club and SC Healthcare Outreach, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with the LA community and work on issues surrounding access to care, which has further reinforced my desire to pursue a career grounded in compassion, science, and service. Most importantly, the support from USC faculty, advisors, and peers has been invaluable, motivating me to challenge myself and pursue meaningful experiences on my path to medicine.”

Kashish’s Life Beyond Undergrad

“Outside of my academic career at USC, I love exploring the outdoors and going on different hiking and camping trips! Applying to be a guide with SC Outfitters has been the best decision I’ve made as I’ve been able to lead so many amazing adventures all over California and meet incredible people through it. I’ve also started running and taking spin classes regularly, and I’m currently training for a half marathon. My favorite running paths are along the beachfront back home and a trail I would go on while studying abroad in Maastricht, running from the Netherlands to Belgium and back! I have visited 26 countries, 17 of which I explored during my Spring 2025 study abroad semester. I love to travel, and it has helped me become so adaptable, open-minded, and globally aware! I’m also an avid foodie and Beli user, and brunch is my favorite meal of the day! Beyond academics and career goals, I’m passionate about living a meaningful, active life and spending time with family and friends.

After graduating in May 2026, I’m planning to take a gap year to build on my clinical and research experience before medical school, and to grow outside the classroom too. My goal is to use this time to deepen my understanding of patient care, strengthen my application, and grow as a future physician. I also want to pursue experiences that genuinely excite me, such as volunteering as a tennis coach for kids with neurodevelopmental delays, going on a medical mission trip, volunteering in underserved communities, traveling, spending time with family and friends, and exploring more of the outdoors!”

One Thing that Contributed to Kashish’s Success

“One of the biggest contributors to my success has been my support system, including my family, the mentors I’ve met at USC, and my community back home in the Virgin Islands. I have only been able to achieve so much because of my family’s encouragement and their endless confidence in me. My mentors have shaped my academic confidence and opened doors to experiences that have defined my journey, and growing up in such a tight-knit, supportive community has grounded me, inspired me, and reminded me of the importance of giving back.”

Kashish’s Advice for Pre-Health Students

“Find balance, prioritize your curiosity and well-being, and take opportunities that genuinely excite you! Taking care of yourself and prioritizing your mental and physical well-being are just as important as academic success. Study abroad, take risks, and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Being yourself and having fun are essential parts of your undergraduate and pre-medical journey, and they will give you the space to grow both academically and as a person.”

Pre-Professional Track: Pre-Med
Major/Minor/Other Special Program:  Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Studies
Year Graduated: 2020
Hometown: La Canada Flintridge, CA
Interests & Special Attributes: Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Health Equity
Professional School: Kirk Kerkorian SOM at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)

Akemi’s Pre-Health Experience at USC

“Being a pre-health major at USC was both rewarding and challenging. You’re learning from world-renowned faculty, but you’re also surrounded by many other driven, talented students. I personally struggled during my first two years of undergrad and didn’t find my rhythm until junior and senior year. I credit much of that turnaround to resources like Dr. Kenneth Geller and Gina Camello in the Pre-Health Office for their guidance on coursework, gap years, and building strong professional relationships.

I highly recommend attending the SI sessions led by fellow students and reaching out to professors early—asking for help is far more effective than trying to catch up alone. I also thoroughly enjoyed volunteering in the Brian Luna Microbiology Lab on the HSC campus, where I was finally able to connect what we were learning in class with hands-on research experience.”

Akemi’s Life Beyond Undergrad

“After undergrad, I took a few gap years off to strengthen my applications for medical school. I completed the Post-baccalaureate Premedical Program at Keck Graduate Institute in Claremont, CA. I also worked as a medical assistant for a dermatology clinic for 2 years to gain insightful clinical experience. I am currently in my second year of medical school at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV in Las Vegas, NV and gearing up to take USMLE STEP 1.”

One Thing that Contributed to Akemi’s Success

“I would not be in medical school today had it not been for Dr. Kenneth Geller and Gina Camello. From day one, both identified themselves as my advocates and committed to helping me reach my goal. Dr. Geller was instrumental during my last two years of undergrad—guiding me through course selection, advising me on meaningful extracurriculars, and encouraging me through moments of self-doubt. Gina was equally phenomenal, especially in helping me navigate my gap years and supporting me throughout the application process. She reviewed countless drafts of my personal statement and advised me every step of the way during my admissions cycle. I truly owe so much of my success to these two individuals.”

Akemi’s Advice for Pre-Health Students

“Stay humble and stay grounded in why you chose this path. Remember that medicine is ultimately about serving others—especially those who don’t have a voice and who rely on you to advocate for their care. Keeping that purpose at the center of everything you do will guide you through the challenges and remind you of the privilege of becoming a physician.”