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Student and Faculty Profiles

Meet Christine...

Class: 2014
Hometown: East Hartford, Connecticut
Undergrad: Boston College
Major: Biology
Program: M.D.

The UConn School of Medicine has always played a crucial role in shedding light on the fact that I can achieve academic success. In high school I was involved in the Health Career Opportunities Programs (HCOP) through UConn which introduced me to the rigors of the pre-med curriculum and the importance of engaging in research opportunities in order to broaden my understanding of biological concepts. These programs gave me the confidence to apply to and attend Boston College where I continued the skills that I acquired through HCOP by joining a neurobiology research lab and volunteering at major hospitals within the city of Boston. Through the HCOP I was introduced to many of the compassionate UConn faculty and staff who all have a genuine interest in ensuring that student’s needs are being met and addressed. I often noticed that the hallways at UConn are always full of smiles from the friendly faculty and staff that always make sure to acknowledge students in passing which only enriches the school’s small, friendly, and welcoming community.

I later decided to complete my pre-med requirements through the UConn's post-baccalaureate program. The support and encouragement that the faculty gave me while in the program made me realize that I was meant to be at UConn. Following my one year in the post-baccalaureate program, I worked as the Program Coordinator for the CT Sickle Cell Disease Consortium which gave me insight as to the challenges that sickle cell patients face while trying to seek out care in the state.I had an opportunity to work with UConn faculty on this project, which aimed to demonstrate the importance of establishing a medical home and health network for individuals living with sickle cell disease in order to improve health outcomes. This work opportunity made me appreciate UConn’s efforts to improve the health services for Connecticut residents by utilizing innovative research and public health approaches.

The early clinical experience that UConn offers through the Student Continuity Practice gave me the clinical experience that I was excitedly looking forward to within my first month of medical school. For the next three years, I will be seeing patients with an UConn preceptor at a Family Medicine practice in my hometown. As a Connecticut native, it is a great feeling to be able to go back to my hometown and to gain insight as to the healthcare needs of the residents.

UConn allows students to build on their clinical skills early on their medical curriculum in order to ensure that UConn graduates are competent and compassionate clinicians. UConn is an ideal institution to learn from passionate and competent clinicians and students who recognize the importance of maintaining a balance in their personal and professional lives while improving the lives of others. Despite the rigor of medical school, I am still able to walk down the hall with a smile like the other members of the UConn School of Medicine community since everyday I’m reminded of the great choice that I made to attend this school.