You’re from Chicago. How did you choose Syracuse University?

Growing up, I always loved the East Coast. My mom travels a lot for work, and I’d sometimes join her on trips. When it came time to apply to college, I knew I wanted to be out East. I visited Syracuse in April 2024 for Admitted Students Day. It was sunny, and it happened to be the day of the eclipse. I always joke that I got tricked because the weather was so nice, but I don’t regret my decision at all. I love it here.

What has stood out to you academically in the College of Arts and Sciences?

One of my first classes was General Chemistry I with Professor Jon French at 9:30 on a Monday and I’m not a morning person at all. It was a huge lecture hall and I wondered how I’d keep up. But Professor French was so personable. He walks through the lecture hall, makes sure students have what they need and answers questions. Seeing how much professors care—especially in Arts and Sciences—was reassuring and part of why I’m glad I chose Syracuse.

Professor Julia Snyder, who taught my General Biology II course, has also been a big influence. Whenever we see each other, we stop and catch up. Building those relationships has meant a lot.

You’re majoring in biochemistry with a goal to attend medical school. When did you know you wanted to pursue medicine?

I’ve always loved science. As a kid, I’d do little experiments in the kitchen, although my parents weren’t always thrilled about the mess. In high school, I took aquaponics, zoology, physics, along with biology and chemistry, just to confirm that interest. The summer before freshman year of college, I completed a hospital internship where I rotated through surgery, pharmacy, NICU and PICU. That really confirmed my love for medicine.

I originally planned to become a clinical pharmacist, which is why I chose biochemistry. But after researching different fields and shadowing a dermatologist in Chicago, I realized dermatology was a better fit. Biochemistry still prepares me well for medical school and the MCAT, and it fulfills most medical school prerequisites.

You’re very involved on campus, including with Syracuse University Ambulance. How has that shaped your goals?

I spend at least eight hours a week with Syracuse University Ambulance, depending on the week. We respond to a wide range of calls, from intoxication to chest pain, and transport patients to area hospitals.

After being accepted into the organization, I completed six weeks of training and earned my EMT certification last semester. It’s been an incredible experience, helping me build medical terminology skills and gain hands-on experience in real situations.

I’ve also volunteered with the Syracuse Literacy Corps and am a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Our Time Has Come Scholarship program.

Congratulations on being selected for the Institute for Responsible Citizenship’s Washington Program. How did you learn about the opportunity?

I was encouraged to apply by an alumni brother in my fraternity, Ronald Taylor ’15, G’16 (Ed), who was part of the class of 2014. When I did some research, I learned it’s not just an internship, but a community that prepares Black male college students for leadership roles after graduation. Being able to spend the next two summers in Washington, D.C., while having a full-time internship in the medical field, felt like an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

What will the experience entail?

I’ll have a full-time internship, nine to five, in the medical space. Right now, it looks like I may be shadowing someone at Children’s National Hospital, but placements are still being finalized. After work, we’ll participate in leadership seminars with prominent public and private sector leaders. So, I’ll be gaining clinical exposure during the day and leadership training in the evening.

Looking ahead, how do you see the Institute for Responsible Citizenship shaping your path?

I want to become a physician, but I also want to be someone who leads and makes a difference beyond the exam room. One of my long-term goals is to develop a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting health education and wellness awareness among children of color. Being part of a program that promotes civic responsibility and promoting the welfare of others is powerful. I’m excited to see where it takes me.