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Esther Alao is studying Lafora Disease in the Mechanisms of Disease and Translational Science Track at UT Southwestern

Learn more about the Organic Chemistry Graduate Program at UT Southwestern in this message from the Director.

Dr. Katelynn “Katie” Smith had always wanted to be an artist – until a close family friend became terminally ill, shifting her focus. She then turned to science, and later medicine, for her career path. She aspires to work in academic medicine, balancing medical education, research, and clinical care.

Dr. Harini Suresh could have been a classical musician but chose medicine instead. In college, she majored in oboe performance, with a minor in chemistry that ultimately won over as she pursued medical school. As a first-generation Indian American, she has had one foot in each culture and learned to appreciate diversity – attributes that will serve her well in the field of psychiatry.

Science has always fascinated Dr. Joshua Pierce, particularly the cellular and molecular basis of human physiology. His undergraduate interests led to a Ph.D. in molecular biology and, finally, a medical degree. As a pathologist, he looks forward to conducting clinical and translational research.

Dr. Layla Zahra Samandi has always had a soft heart for children. In high school, she taught swimming lessons and tutored elementary school students. Then in college, her volunteer work at a children’s hospital solidified her career path. She hopes to pursue a career as a pediatrician in academic medicine and medical education.

Experiences with medical professionals who demonstrated compassion inspired Dr. Anika Morgado to follow suit. Gratitude for the opportunities she received in the U.S. as the child of Venezuelan immigrants led to her desire to become a physician committed to helping underserved Latinx communities.

Samantha Golomb is studying Brain Metastasis in the Cancer Biology Graduate Program at UT Southwestern

Learn about the Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program at UTSW in this message from the program Director.

Perot Family Scholars Medical Scientist Training Program, Curriculum