Class of 2025

Program: MD

Hometown: Johnson City, TN

Undergraduate Institution: East Tennessee State University

Specialty Interest: Undecided; leaning toward an area of pediatric surgery

‘Sup! My name’s Sam, and I’m originally from East Tennessee. I knew coming out of undergrad that I wanted to go into medicine, but I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go to medical school. When I researched Vanderbilt for the first time, the curriculum, which gives you clinical experience almost from the very beginning, seemed a little intimidating as a first-generation medical student. But after meeting the students and faculty here during interviews, I knew this was absolutely the place for me. Everyone at VUSM was so nice and welcoming, the interview almost wasn’t stressful. I enjoyed it and the people I talked to, and I valued the time I spent considering Vanderbilt. Our professors are so knowledgeable and caring, and our student body is committed to increasing representation in the medical field. As an undergrad, I worked with the Minority Association of Pre-Health Students and made connections with all kinds of people who brought different perspectives to medicine. I’ve found similar groups here with diverse perspectives and backgrounds like 1GMD (first-gen med), APAMSA (Asian Pacific American Medical Association), and SNMA (Student National Medical Association). My classmates care about those traditionally underrepresented in medicine, and we want everyone to find success here at Vanderbilt, even if it seems intimidating at first.

Fun fact about me: If I were a superhero, I would make my power the ability to sing so I could crush “Chandelier” by Sia at karaoke.

Reach out to me about:

• Literally ANYTHING!

Have questions? Reach out to any ambassador!