Hello! I’m an out-of-state student from Princeton, New Jersey majoring in Biochemistry at UCLA on the pre-med track. I live on campus and understand firsthand the academic and social transition that comes with moving across the country for college. In addition to my coursework, I volunteer and have gained clinical exposure through hospital-based programs and shadowing experiences. I’d be happy to share insights on navigating the pre-med track, campus life, and opportunities for early involvement in healthcare. I hope to provide an honest and helpful perspective for both students and families preparing for the college journey!

Hometown

Princeton, NJ

Major(s)

Biochemistry

Minor(s)

Computational Biology

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Japanese Student Union, Nikkei Student Union, Hospital Volunteer

Describe your college experience

Transitioning to college from out of state was both exciting and challenging. Moving from New Jersey to UCLA meant adjusting to a new academic environment, building a support system from scratch, and learning to balance independence with responsibility. Living in the dorms helped me quickly find a sense of community, and I’ve grown both socially and academically through this experience. As a pre-med student majoring in biochemistry, my coursework is rigorous, but I’ve found it rewarding to engage with passionate peers and dedicated faculty. Overall, college has been a period of growth. I’ve learned to manage my time, take initiative, and make the most of the opportunities available at a large research university!

Tip for future students

One of the best tips I can offer future students is to get involved early through clubs, volunteering, or research. These opportunities help you explore your interests and build a sense of community on campus. It is also important to manage your time effectively and stay organized so you can balance academics with everything else college has to offer. Focus on building strong relationships with your peers and professors because they can become valuable mentors and supporters. Be proactive about using campus resources and take initiative in your own growth. College passes quickly, so make the most of your time both inside and outside the classroom.

Favorite class

Surprisingly, my favorite class so far has been organic chemistry with Dr. Pham. I went into the course expecting it to be overwhelming, but his energy and passion completely changed my perspective. Dr. Pham made each lecture genuinely fun and engaging, breaking down tough concepts in clear, approachable ways and constantly incorporating humor and real-life examples. By the end of the quarter, I found myself actually looking forward to class!

Career goals

After college, I plan to attend medical school to pursue an MD. My long-term goal is to become a radiologist, with a particular focus on neuroradiology. I’m especially interested in how advanced imaging techniques can aid in the early detection and management of neurological disorders, and I hope to contribute to improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes in this field.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night would be going to the beach to relax, grabbing dinner at a new spot in LA, or watching a movie with friends. I like to explore and go out whenever I can!

High school or secondary school

Lawrence High School, Lawrenceville, NJ