2023 Grad
Touro University of California College of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Track: Academic Enhancer
Undergraduate School: University of California, Davis
Why did you choose to attend the SFSU Post-Bac Program?
I chose the SFSU Post-Bac because I needed to strengthen my academic record, but just as importantly, I was looking for guidance and community. Before SFSU, I had taken classes through other programs, but those programs were unstructured and felt isolating. At the SFSU open house, the positivity of the students and faculty stood out, and I realized this program offered the advising, structure and supportive cohort I had not had before.
Working in San Francisco at the time, it also made sense to stay local, but what really made the difference was the culture: students encouraged one another, professors were approachable, and advisors helped me map out a real path forward. Through the program, I not only improved my GPA but also built confidence, stronger study strategies and mentorship that eventually led to meaningful opportunities. SFSU showed me that success in medicine is not just an individual pursuit — it’s about collaboration, encouragement and lifting each other up along the way.
Which SFSU Post-Bac class was your favorite and why?
My two favorite classes were Biophysics and Physics in Medicine. They opened my eyes to a side of healthcare I had not fully appreciated: the way physics and biology intersect in medicine. As a self-proclaimed space nerd, I have always loved physics, even if it was not always my strongest subject. Learning concepts like protein folding through Markov chains and exploring how X-rays and MRIs work was new and incredibly exciting. These courses not only challenged me but also inspired me to carry my interest in physics into whatever specialty I ultimately pursue.
Tell us something you learned as an SFSU Post-Bac that is important to you.
One of the most important things I learned is that success in medicine is about more than grades. Academic achievement matters, but growth as a person and future professional is equally important. The culture of collaboration and encouragement from peers and faculty showed me that medicine is a team effort, and being well-rounded, adaptable and supportive of others is just as valuable as excelling in the classroom. That perspective continues to guide how I approach both school and patient care.
What advice would you give to incoming post-bac students?
Build meaningful connections with the people around you, whether with peers, patients, or professors. Be proactive, kind genuine. You can be the most knowledgeable person in the room, but in healthcare, which is rooted in service, that means little if you cannot communicate and connect with others, especially across differences. Never underestimate the power of human connection, both professionally and personally.
If you are currently attending your health professions school, which program are you attending and what is your year in school?
Touro University of California College of Osteopathic Medicine (Class of 2028)
If you have completed your health professional school education and training, which school/program did you graduate from and when?
Did not yet graduate