Class of 2025

Program: MD

Hometown: Plano, TX
Undergraduate Institution: Washington University in St. Louis

Majors: Biology and biochemistry

Specialty Interest: Undecided

Hiya! I’m Lena. The number one thing that I was looking for in a medical school was a supportive, close-knit community. With its emphasis on wellness, small class size, and pass/fail curriculum for both preclinical and clinical years, it was obvious that Vandy wanted its students happy despite its fast paced curriculum. I have not regretted my decision to come here, where I can work with diverse teams of professionals in the medical field while working toward a more equitable healthcare system. I serve on the Social Mission Committee, which works to educate and create initiatives to promote health equity, looking at all facets of overall health including social determinants. We get hands-on experience in advancing equitable healthcare at Shade Tree Clinic, our free student-run clinic where we help Nashville’s disadvantaged populations. There, we get to work with faculty advisers, students across the cohorts interested in different specialties, nursing teams and students, social workers, and other professionals. Our Vanderbilt Program for Interprofessional Learning (VPIL) also lets us get clinical experiences with professionals and students across care systems and fields! I love working with everyone here!

Fun fact about me: As a Texan, I’m a taco aficionado.

Reach out to me about:

• VPIL
• Life in Nashville
• Nashville food scene
• Moving to Nashville

Have questions? Reach out to any ambassador!