What first got you interested in your field of choice?

I’ve been interested in science and humanitarianism since my early youth. I wanted to have a career that involved both, so a career in medicine seemed like the most logical route. Yet for several reasons, I’ve never felt that becoming a doctor was right for me. It wasn’t until literally my last term at UC Santa Cruz that I discovered the physician assistant profession. The profession resonated with me because it aligned with what I wanted to accomplish in medicine and the life I want to create outside of medicine.

What type of obstacles have you had to overcome on the road to getting your education?

One of the biggest obstacles is my GPA. I’ve applied to PA school twice in the past, and each time my GPA had been the limiting factor. Yet I refuse for grades that I got years ago to define my future. I know what I’m capable of and I intend to prove that during my time here at KGI.

How did you know that KGI was the right school for you?

I’m fortunate enough to have experience in both clinical settings and in industry settings. I knew KGI was the perfect fit for me because of its forward thinking and emphasis on exposing pre-health students to the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. I very much enjoy that KGI promotes an entrepreneurial spirit grounded in scientific rigor. I seek to hold myself to that standard, and its great to be surrounded by a community of driven, incredibly smart, and kind individuals.

Why did you want to become an Admissions Ambassador?

I want to be an Admissions Ambassador because I think my story is a valuable one to share with prospective students. I know how hard it is to pursue a career in medicine, and I hope that my story inspires students to keep going. KGI has given me the opportunity to prove that I’m worthy of that acceptance into PA school, and I’m forever grateful to be a part of this institution. That’s why I want to give back to KGI as an Admissions Ambassador. I think many pre-PAs and other pre-health students should learn about what KGI has to offer, and I’m more than happy to convey my experience as a student here to them.

What is one fun and interesting fact about you?

I’ve written and directed a stage play! During undergrad, I wrote a stage play that included 140 individual performers. It was an annual cultural show for the Filipino Student Association at UC Santa Cruz, so the show incorporated singing, acting, and dance pieces. It was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever been a part of!