Biomedical Sciences
How do you feel that your faculty mentor(s) have helped you in finding your path and succeeding?
“My faculty mentors at UCF included Dr. Tyler Fisher, Dr. Alaa Hashim, and Dr. Robert Borgon. They have helped me in countless ways outside of the classroom which included academic and professional advising, expanding my network, and recommending me for awards and medical school programs. Specifically, I benefitted immeasurably from Dr. Fisher who helped in almost every aspect of my academic and professional career at UCF and beyond. The advice and support of my mentors has been an integral part of my journey to becoming a world-class physician and community leader.”
How important is/was having a mentor and how did you find ones that were right for you?
“I would not be where I am right now if it were not for my amazing mentors. They have guided me to countless opportunities and imparted much knowledge, wisdom, and many skills. Having a mentor or mentors is essential and I found mine through the Burnett Honors College and the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences at UCF. Specifically, I reached out to professors whose classes, work, and research I fell in love with, and they were nothing but accepting, resourceful, wise, and helpful.”
What doors has your mentor opened that you feel you wouldn’t have had access to otherwise?
“Through the guidance of my honorable mentors, I was able to get teaching jobs, start humanitarian projects, and do academic research. They also helped me to expand my network and taught me many professionals skills. My mentors also wrote me letters of recommendation that helped me win UCF’s most prestigious award, the Order of Pegasus, and will also be an important part of my application to medical school. I also benefitted immensely from their knowledge, experience, and wisdom.”
What words of appreciation can you share about your mentor(s)?
“I will never be able to thank Dr. Fisher, Dr. Hashim, or Dr. Borgon enough for their support, advice, and help in my academic and professional career. I am privileged and honored to be their mentee and will continuously benefit from their teachings and wisdoms for life. I thank them sincerely and will give back by mentoring and passing on what I have learned to other students. Being a mentor or a mentee is a beautiful thing, and I am happy to be a part of something so beautiful.”