Samuel Mikhail '20, a BHC Scholar and biomedical sciences alumnus, recently received one of UCF's most prestigious honors, the Order of Pegasus. While at UCF, he was involved in undergraduate research, completed volunteer work in Jamaica, was a teaching assistant, and completed the UCF surgical internship. Samuel hopes to pursue a career in academic medicine, as his time at UCF has made him realize his passion for teaching and mentorship.
What does receiving the Order of Pegasus mean to you?
To me, the Order of Pegasus serves as a perpetual reminder of the lessons I have learned while at UCF. The first lesson is that there is no shame in asking for help, and to never let your pride stand in your own way. The second lesson is more personal – that I had made the right choice, and that UCF was and is the right place for me. I have come to value what this university represents, and I am proud to be a part of an institution that has supplied mentors, role models, and friends.
How did you achieve this honor?
I have been blessed to be involved in several communities on campus that began with my involvement in the Burnett Honors College. I served as an Honors Orientation Ambassador and president of Honors Congress, where I was molded by supportive mentors that afforded me the skillset to pursue other experiences.
Early on, I became involved in undergraduate research and completed my Honors in the Major thesis that focused on developing microbial markers for the early detection of cancer. I also participated in an independent study that allowed me to combine my research experience and volunteer work with foster youth to travel to Jamaica, with the goal of improving scientific literacy in low socioeconomic communities. My experiences as a teaching assistant for the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences and participation in the UCF surgical internship solidified my interest in medicine and passion for education.
I also took part in several experiences that I was not too fond of, but they were just as important as those of which I am most proud of. They taught me how to compromise with others in unique environments and how to cope in times of crisis.
What is your long-term goal, and how will the Order of Pegasus help you get there?
Ultimately, my goal is to pursue a career in academic medicine whilst advocating for patient health and promoting education and mentorship to youth. Finding the inspiration from several faculty and staff at UCF, I discovered my love for teaching and mentorship, and I hope to incorporate both passions as a physician. The Order of Pegasus taught me that success is a group effort, and [it] has given me a generous network that will support me in achieving my goals.
What advice do you have for others who may want to achieve the Order of Pegasus?
One piece of advice that I always give freshmen during orientation is to never let someone else’s timeline pressure you to do something you are not ready for. And I have found that rings true no matter where you are in your educational career. Take reasonable leaps of faith during your undergraduate career but never let them be dictated by anyone but you.
Also, it is never too early to pay it forward using the knowledge and experience you’ve gained thus far. And if you don’t have the information to help, instead volunteer your time. Lastly, the lessons you learn from failure will not always immediately make themselves evident. Trust that they will hit you at an opportune moment, at the best time when you need it most.