Meet Kelly...
 Class: 2007
Hometown: Fairfield, Connecticut
Undergrad: Middlebury College
Major: Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Program: M.D./Ph.D.
From the time that I was a small child, I knew I wanted to be a doctor. I attended Middlebury College, where I completed pre-medical requirements while majoring in molecular
biology and biochemistry. I also competed as a varsity athlete on the ski team. I developed a great interest in science, and completed a senior thesis on the regulation of metal ion transport
in Streptococcus mutans. I confirmed my desire to practice medicine through an internship with a general surgeon, and volunteer work in the emergency room. After college, I worked for a year
at a small biotechnology company while applying to medical school. Through these experiences, I realized that I had a true drive to continue research along with medicine. I also became
extremely interested in academic medicine and decided to pursue an M.D./Ph.D. degree.
At UConn, I found a place where I could continue to develop my skills, personally and academically. I was very attracted by the systems based learning curriculum, as well as
the opportunity to see patients continuously, in the Student Continuity Practice (SCP) program. This program has helped me to develop my medical skills, as well as my ability to interact with
patients.
Most of all, I was attracted to UConn for the people. I found a body of students who were welcoming, active, and eager to work together. I was also extremely impressed with the
faculty, who are constantly searching for a way to help each student achieve and excel.
Outside of school, I have enjoyed living in the Hartford area. I have found great places to bike, and I run almost every day. I have also been able to travel to Vermont to keep
up with my skiing most winter weekends. The city of Hartford provides me with cultural and social activities, as well as a great place to learn medicine.
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“I was also extremely impressed with the faculty, who are constantly searching for a way to help each student achieve and excel.”
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UConn also provides me with the ability to become involved in a variety of extracurricular activities. There is truly something for everyone! First, I have been able to
volunteer in all three of our clinics, which provide health care for people living in Hartford’s shelters. The clinics are predominately student run, with a physician volunteer each week to
oversee the medical care. I also became involved in UConn’s Medical/Dental Student Government (MDSG), as the secretary of the organization. With this group, I helped to plan social activities,
such as post-test celebrations as well as yearly rafting and ski trips and a winter formal. I found our administration to be extremely supportive of activities which helped to bring the
student body together forming a cohesive support system of peers.
Additionally, I have had the great opportunity to serve as a representative of UConn to the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC). Attending national conferences, and
returning with new ideas to improve our school. These national conferences have also given me a new perspective of how fortunate I am to be a part of UConn’s exceptional program. |
