Pre-Professional Student Ambassadors (PPSA) work directly with the Pre-Professional Advising Office (PPAO) to establish and build an inclusive community for pre-health and pre-law students at UGA. The role of a PPSA is to connect students to campus resources, professional development opportunities, and support / guidance.
If you are just starting out on your pre-professional journey we encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity to connect with a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador. We invite you to request a meeting with another pre-professional student who can help you navigate your path here at UGA by providing guidance, support, and connecting you to valuable resources both on and off-campus.
Benjamin is a fourth-year student from Davidson, North Carolina, majoring in finance with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. He interned at the Athens-Clarke County Office of the District Attorney, where he developed a deep interested in criminal proceedings, trials, and legal strategies. On campus, Benjamin is involved with the Catholic Student Association and several Terry College of Business organizations, including The Economics Society, Kennedy, and Apollo. He aims to merge his academic pursuits with his passion for law in a future career in business law. Outside of academics, Benjamin enjoys NFL football, traveling, and spending time with his extensive family. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Benjamin looks forward to sharing his journey, fostering community among pre-professional students, and offering guidance on the law school admissions process.
Andrew is a third-year student from Marietta, majoring in criminal justice and political science with a Minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. He is currently interning at a criminal defense law office in downtown Athens. When he’s not buried in a book behind the security desk at the library, he can be found trying to convince his fellow Demosthenian Literary Society members to let him show off his many Rubik’s cubes. He is a former Redcoat Marching Band member and an avid dawgs fan, and is more than happy to discuss his national championship experience. Andrew aspires to practice criminal law and is excited to help other pre-law students navigate their academic careers through the Pre-Professional Advising Office.
Born and raised in Qatar, Valencia is a second-year psychology and English double major with a minor in dance. She plans to attend Law School to specialize in family law and advocate for domestic violence awareness and prevention, especially in the South Asian community. On campus, Valencia is part of UGA Asura, a national-level, competitive Bollywood fusion dance team. She’s also involved with Sigma Sigma Rho, a South Asian-based sorority while working with UGA Marine Extension as a student assistant. Off-campus, Valencia spends her weekends holding dance lessons and hosting events through her self-owned dance team, Team Deewani, based in her hometown, Snellville. She loves to write poetry and enjoys being part of theatre productions and choirs. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Valencia hopes to integrate student diversity, while spreading her philanthropy and being a good friend to everyone that comes to her!
Hayden is a second-year from Augusta majoring in English and philosophy. Growing up surrounded by attorneys, she has always been fascinated with the law and has long planned on becoming a lawyer. She is an oral advocate on UGA’s Moot Court, an intern at a law firm in her hometown, and an active member within campus Greek life. Her postgraduate plans are to attend law school and pursue a career in criminal defense. Outside of her academics, she enjoys reading, seeing live music, and going on coffee-fueled walks with her friends. As a PPSA, she is most excited to make students aware of the many opportunities that their pre-professional pathway offers them and help them navigate what options are best suited to their needs.
Dami is a second-year student from Gwinnett double-majoring in philosophy and women’s studies, minoring in international affairs, and completing a Certificate in Legal Studies. Along with serving as a pre-professional student ambassador, Dami is the treasurer for the Black Pre-Law Student Association, a residential assistant for University Housing, and an ambassador for the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. Dami currently works under the mentorship of a prominent immigration and family lawyer and has gained valuable experience in the legal field as she regularly engages with research, case management, and client advocacy. In her free time, she enjoys exercising, walks in nature, trying new recipes, and spending quality time with friends and family. Dami is extremely passionate about helping other students like herself navigate the challenges of pursuing a career path, as she understands that making informed decisions early on can significantly impact one’s future success and personal fulfillment!
A’Miracle is a third year pre-law student from Ashburn double majoring in psychology and sociology with double minors in women’s studies and criminal justice. On campus, she is involved with University Housing as a resident assistant, Dawg Camp, and Student Transition Leader. In her free time she loves to do word searches and hang out with her friends. Her future plans include going to law school to become either a human rights or real estate lawyer, and then eventually opening a practice of her own. As a PPSA, A’Miracle hopes to be of assistance in guiding and helping students here at the university with their pre-law journey!
Isobel is a third-year risk management and insurance major with a Minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State and is from Decatur, Illinois. She has worked as a finance intern for Archer Daniel Midland (ADM), an agribusiness giant, and at Brown & Brown and Bridge Specialty Group as a wholesale and retail brokerage intern. She spent spring semester 2024 in Vienna, Austria, studying abroad at Vienna University of Economics and Business. Isobel has discovered an interest in contract and insurance law which she intends to pursue in law school after taking a gap year. She is a member of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity, Kappa Alpha Pi (KAPI), and Gamma Iota Sigma. She volunteers at the local Athens Humane Society and at Alps Elementary School. Isobel is excited to meet new pre-law students, and sharing her personal story and guidance earned the last three years at UGA.
Abby is a fourth-year student from Newnan. She is majoring in economics with an emphasis in public policy, as well as a minor in communication studies and a Certificate in Legal Studies. On campus, she is involved in Greek Life, Women in Economics, and the Wesley Foundation. Outside of school, she likes to take walks with her friends and try out coffee shops around Athens. After graduation, Abby plans to attend law school with an interest in corporate law. Abby is excited for the coming year as an ambassador, and hopes to provide guidance and encouragement for other pre-law students.
Jordan is a fourth-year student from Cumming double-majoring in political science and psychology with a minor in criminal justice. She is particularly interested in family law. Jordan has worked as a legal intern for the DeKalb County Public Defender’s Law Office, where she learned more about Georgia’s criminal justice system and conducted her own research on what type of law she is interested in. On campus, Jordan is involved in Kappa Delta Fraternity, Phi Alpha Delta pre-law fraternity, and Extra Special People. She is passionate about both her majors and aims to learn more about the interconnection between politics and psychology. In her free time, she can be found playing pickleball, exploring downtown Athens, and listening to Taylor Swift. Jordan is ecstatic to work on her professional abilities and pursue her interests as a pre-professional student ambassador. Additionally, Jordan is eager to share her expertise and support with a range of students who are also advancing their legal education.
Allison is a fourth-year student from Dallas, Texas, pursuing a major from Dallas, Texas, pursuing a major in biology. Post-graduation, her goal is to attend medical school. On campus, she actively participates in Kappa Kappa Gamma, Phi Delta Epsilon pre-med fraternity, serves as a physiology learning assistant, and conducts stem cell research. Off campus, Allison volunteers at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital and Conversations to Remember. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, exploring new Athens restaurants, and spending time with family and friends. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Allison aims to support fellow students on their pre-medicine track journey by providing resources and guidance.
Brooke is a fourth-year student from Watkinsville double majoring in biology and biomedical physiology. After obtaining her undergraduate degrees, Brooke plans to attend medical school. She is a member of the UGA Women’s Lacrosse team, Alpha Phi Sorority, Phi Delta Epsilon medical fraternity, Alpha Epsilon Delta medical honor society, and UGA HEROs. Brooke volunteers at St. Mary’s Hospice House providing comfort-oriented healthcare assistance to terminally-ill patients and their families. During her free time, she enjoys going to yoga, attending sporting events, traveling, reading, collecting record albums, going to the beach, lake, and movies, and spending time with her friends and family. Brooke is excited to help pre-professional students more easily connect with resources and improve their college experience through time management and planning.
Wylie is a third-year biology major from Jefferson, with a minor in Spanish. He is on the pre-med track and plans to attend medical school to become a primary care physician after obtaining his undergraduate degree. He is currently employed as a personal care assistant at a local home care provider as a research assistant at the Cognition and Dexterity Lab at UGA. He also volunteers at his hometown church to assist needy families during the holidays. Wylie is a member of the Morehead Honors College at UGA, and enjoys tennis, motocross, and weightlifting. He is looking forward to connecting other pre-med students with resources and opportunities to help them succeed in their goals!
Maggie is a fourth-year student from Minneapolis, Minnesota majoring in health promotion with a minor in biology. After graduating from UGA in May 2025, she plans to apply to medical school with an interest in cardiology. On campus, she is involved with the Backpack Project, the Rural Health Initiative, and UNICEF. She also works as a teaching assistant for general chemistry labs and as an undergraduate research assistant for the Cognitive Aging Research and Education Center at the Institute of Gerontology. When not studying, she enjoys spending time working out, running, hiking, and playing intramural sports with her friends. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, she is excited to help other students navigate their journey and find opportunities to further their goals.
Firas is a fourth-year biology major with an area of emphasis in neuroscience from Johns Creek. After graduating from UGA, he plans on attending medical school. On campus, he works as a peer learning assistant for biochemistry and conducts research at the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center. Off campus, Firas devotes his time to the Shifa Clinic, a free clinic serving the uninsured, as well as local hospitals and charities. Aside from his volunteering and professional endeavors, Firas spend his free time weightlifting, listening to different types of music, and playing video games. As a transfer student from Georgia State University, Firas hopes to help other transfer students on the pre-medical path their place and succeed at Georgia despite starting their journey at another institution. He is excited to work with students to make the best out of their time as a pre-medical student at UGA!
Sanjana is a fourth-year biology major with minors in chemistry and applied biotechnology with pre-medical intent. Upon graduating UGA, she plans to continue her education through medical school to become a physician. On campus, she is involved in regenerative research of complex diseases, Minority Students Science Association, and the Thomas Lay Afterschool Program. Outside campus, she really enjoys volunteering at Emory Hospital. In her free time, she loves playing tennis, traveling, meeting new people, and spending valuable time with her loved ones. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Sanjana is excited to be the upperclassman mentor students can come to for advice, guidance, or for a supportive friend to talk to!
Alyssa is a third-year student from Eatonton majoring in psychology with a focus on neuroscience. She is also a double dawg getting an MPH. After obtaining her graduate degree, she plans to attend medical school. Alyssa is involved in Elevate Mentoring, Girls in Healthcare, and Georgia Daze Football Ambassadors. Off campus, she is a mentor for the Clarke County Mentor Program, as well as a volunteer at Peaceful Purpose Hospice of Georgia. In her free time Alyssa enjoys trying new recipes, taking walks, and reading. As a pre-professional student ambassador, she is most excited about working with other pre-medical students and being a sense of support that they can depend on.
Priscilla is a fourth-year student from Warner Robins, majoring in environmental health sciences with minors in general business and chemistry. She hopes to attend medical school after graduating UGA. On campus, she is involved in Shop with a Bulldawg (SWAB), Phi Delta Epsilon, and Greek Life. She has previously been an undergraduate co-teaching assistant and chemistry learning assistant. She enjoys volunteering her time at Sparrow’s Nest, Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital, and Mercy Health Center. Priscilla is eager and excited to be a helpful resource to incoming and current students at UGA on a pre-professional path.
Riddhi is a fourth-year student with a double major in biology and psychology and a minor in applied biotechnology with an emphasis in neuroscience. She is also a premed student with the intent of taking a few gap years before going to medical school. Her hobbies include reading, baking, going to the gym, making pottery, and spending time with her cat. Riddhi understands that navigating life as a pre-health student can be difficult and confusing; she hopes to alleviate some of that stress and help students figure it out as they go. Riddhi is excited to be a pre-med ambassador for the Pre-Professional Advising Office!
Gabby is a fourth-year majoring in genetics and minoring in dance. After graduation this May, she aspires to attend medical school with the intent of specializing in pediatrics & medical genetics. Gabby is the president of the Lunchbox Garden Project and the event coordinator for the Rural Health Initiative. She volunteers as a patient transporter at St. Mary’s, and spends time with the kids at the local homeless shelter in her free time. Outside of school, Gabby has a passion for baking, spending time with friends, and walking through the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. As a pre-medical ambassador, she can’t wait to help other students through this journey as past ambassadors have helped her.
Bergann is a third-year student from Kennesaw majoring in regenerative bioscience with a minor in genetics. After graduation she aims to attend medical school and continue research as a physician-scientist. On campus she is involved in research on neural injury, the American Medical Students Association, and is a peer learning assistant for genetics. Off campus, she volunteers at Piedmont Hospital, enjoys playing pickleball, and loves spending time with friends and family. As a pre-professional student ambassador, she is excited to support students beginning their pre-med pathway and offer resources for any students interested in research.
Micole is a fourth-year student majoring in biology and sociology with a minor in public health. On the pre-med track, she aspires to become a pediatrician after medical school. Micole volunteers with Extra Special People and Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital. She is co-president of Cancer Support Community, head of the programming committee of Phi Delta Epsilon, and serves as the social media coordinator for Women in Science. Additionally, she works as a CSA at Myers Hall. Micole is also involved in public health research and collaborates with Dr. Gay in the PACE Lab. Her commitment to healthcare extended globally when she traveled to Guatemala with UGA VAW on a medical trip in March 2023. In her free time, she enjoys reading and trying new restaurants with her family and friends. Micole is excited to work with fellow pre-med students and connect them to opportunities that will help them be successful.
Soniya is a fourth-year student from Johns Creek majoring in biology on the pre-med track. After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to attend medical school and fulfill her dream of becoming a doctor. On campus, Soniya works as a chemistry learning assistant, is a Prepared Dawg Ambassador, and works in the Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab. Soniya also dedicates her time to volunteering, specifically through Thomas Lay After School Program, Books for Keeps, Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital, Special Pops Tennis, and Inspire Hospice. She has spent the past summer as a personal care attendant and worked as a camp counselor at Aurora Day Camp. In her free time, you can find her playing tennis, drawing, playing with dogs, working out at Ramsey, or on a plane, traveling the world! As a PPSA, Soniya is excited to support other pre-med students in reaching their professional goals and creating connections.
Emily is a fourth year student from Peachtree City. She is majoring in exercise and sports science. After graduating this upcoming year, she plans on getting her masters degree in anesthesia and pursue a career as an anesthesiologist Assistant. On campus, she is a member of the Pre-Anesthesiologist Assistant Association and works as a peer tutor for chemistry, anatomy, and calculus. She is involved in Special Pops, which teaches kids and adults with disabilities how to play tennis. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering at local food banks and places within the community. During her time as a PPSA, Emily is eager to provide assistance and be a dependable resource for students who need advice and insight on how they can reach their goals in college and for their professional careers.
Ashley is a fourth-year student majoring in exercise and sports science from Fayetteville. She is on the Pre-AA track and plans to attend anesthesiologist assistant school after graduating from UGA. On campus, she is involved with the Pre-Anesthesiologist Assistant Association and holds leadership positions in her Panhellenic sorority. Off-campus, she volunteers with Saint Mary’s Health System and the Thomas Lay After-School Program. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Ashley is excited to help other pre-professional students and connect them with resources to help them reach their career goals!
Halle is a fourth year from Fitzgerald majoring accounting and obtaining certificates in Entrepreneurship and Personal and Organizational Leadership. On campus, she is involved with ILA Scholars, PROPEL Rural Scholars, UGA Kickstart Fund, and the Pre-Dental Society. Off campus, Halle is a volunteer in the children’s ministry at Athens Church and is a member of a college small group. She plans to attend dental school upon graduation and return to South Georgia to open several dental practices. Halle enjoys the entrepreneurial thrill of creating and growing small businesses, so she looks forward to obtaining her MBA while in dental school. As an ambassador, she hopes to be a mentor and provide intentional support to pre-dental students across campus.
Rishita is a fourth-year psychology major and chemistry major from Cumming. She plans to attend dental school after graduating from UGA. On campus is involved in clubs like UNICEF, Spoon University, Women in Dentistry, and the Pre-Dental Society. Outside of campus, she spends her free time volunteering and shadowing dentists to gain experience in the dental field. She likes to bake, spend time with family, watch shows, and do nails. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Rishita is excited to connect with other students and support them in their pre-dental/pre-health journey!
Ella is a fourth-year student from Greensboro, majoring in biology. Before the start of her sophomore year, she transferred to UGA from the University of South Carolina. After obtaining her undergraduate degree, she plans to pursue a career in dentistry. On campus, she is proud to be a member of Alpha Epsilon Delta, the Pre-Dental Society, and the Knit and Crochet Club. She also serves as a staff member for the Backpack Project, a Study Abroad Ambassador for the Office of Global Engagement, the director of community involvement for the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children, and a lab assistant in the UGA Plastination Laboratory. Off campus, she is a part time dental assistant. In her free time, she enjoys working out, watching movies, and knitting. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Ella is thrilled to make new pre-professional friends and connect students with resources that will help them discover or achieve their dreams!
Savannah is a third-year student from Clemson, South Carolina, majoring in cellular biology. After graduating, she plans to attend dental school in hopes of one day becoming a pediatric dentist. On campus, Savannah is an Honors Teaching Assistant (HTA), a community service coordinator for the Pre-Dental Society, and performs research in her department. She regularly volunteers with the Thomas Lay After-School Program, as well as shadows at a local dentist office in Athens. In her free time, she loves trying new Athens restaurants and going to the lake with her friends. Savannah is excited to get to know her fellow pre-dental students on campus!
Gracie is a fourth-year student from Carrollton majoring in music with a minor in biology. She is a student in the Morehead Honors College, and after graduation, she plans to attend dental school. On campus, Gracie is a member of the Redcoat Band, in which she currently serves as one of the mellophone section leaders. She is also involved in the UGA Horn Studio and serves as an ambassador for the Hugh Hodgson School of Music. Off campus, Gracie volunteers as a dental assistant at Mercy Health Center and serves in the youth ministry at Graystone Church. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Gracie is excited to share her passions with fellow pre-health students and encourage others in their pursuits.
Hanani is a third-year student from Marietta who is majoring in biological science and minoring in Spanish. Hanani plans to attend dental school after receiving her undergraduate degree. On campus, she serves on the executive board of Perfect Pair UGA and is a member of the Pre-Dental Society. Off campus, she serves in the children’s ministry at Athens Church and is a member of a college small group. She also volunteers at Mercy Health Center and runs a crochet small business. In her free time, she loves reading, crocheting, cooking, and spending time with friends and family. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Hanani looks forward to working alongside her peers to offer support and guidance to other students pursuing a pre-professional pathway.
Cameron is a fourth-year student from Marietta with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry. After completing her undergraduate studies from UGA in 2025, she plans to attend dental school. On campus, she is the vice president of UGA Pre-Dental Society, the vice president of UGA HOSA, the founder / president of Magical Moments Foundation, and a chemistry learning assistant. Off campus, she was a volunteer at Piedmont Athens Regional and St. Mary’s Healthcare. She shadows dentists and works as a marketing agent for dental offices. In her free time, she loves going to coffee shops and visiting art museums. As a pre-professional student ambassador and the PPSA social media pro, Cameron is excited to help and encourage fellow pre-dental and pre-professional students!
Angela is a fourth-year health promotion major with a biology minor from Alpharetta. After graduating from UGA, she plans to attend dental school. On campus, she is a shift captain at Campus Kitchen, involved in research through the CARE lab, and is an outreach chair for Saving Smiles and a service event coordinator for the Dental Minority Dawgs. She has also served as a peer tutor under the Division of Academic Enhancement and was involved in the Health Disparities and Equity Service Program. Off campus, Angela volunteers at the Mercy Health Center as a dental assistant. In her free time, she enjoys arts and crafts, visiting new coffee shops, and hanging out with her cats. Angela is passionate about peer mentoring and can’t wait to connect with fellow pre-health students!
Rutu is a fourth-year biology student from Johns Creek and plans to attend dental school after graduating UGA. On campus, she is involved with the Morehead Honors College, UGA Indian Cultural Exchange / India Night, and is a chemistry learning assistant. She spends her time volunteering as a dental assistant at Mercy Health Center, Colgate Mobile Dental Van, and is involved with a sexual assault resistance workshop at Georgia State University. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Rutu is excited to give advice on DAT prep, classes, and anything related to the dental field!
Anne-Therese is a fourth-year student from Warner Robins, majoring in biomedical physiology with a minor in biology. After graduating from UGA, she plans on attending dental school. On campus, she is involved with the Catholic Center, Shop with a Bulldog, Pre-Dental Society, and is in the Morehead Honors College. She serves as a chemistry learning assistant and enjoys volunteering at Thomas Lay After-School Program and Rehoboth Life Care Ministries dental clinic in her hometown. She is also helping plan a dental trip with VAW in Guatemala this winter as their co-education chair! In her free time, Anne-Therese loves playing pickleball and just being outside! As an ambassador, Anne-Therese hopes to be a guiding hand and a friendly face to other pre-health students!
Kaitlyn is a third year student from Alpharetta who is working towards becoming a genetic counselor. While obtaining a genetics major and Spanish minor, Kaitlyn also works as a research assistant in an evolutionary genetics lab and is on the executive board of the GENES Association. Kaitlyn also volunteers by working at UGA Habitat for Humanity and Crisis Textline. She has many resources to help any student in or interested in the pre-genetic counseling track. Whether it is academic assistance, planning, seeking opportunities, questions about grad school, or emotional support, Kaitlyn will help!
Gabriella is a fourth-year genetics major with a minor in human services, aspiring to become a cancer or prenatal genetic counselor. She currently serves as the Athens Team Hope Walk coordinator for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, where she dedicates herself to raising awareness and funds for families affected by Huntington’s Disease, as well as addressing their financial challenges. Gabriella has volunteered as a hotline advocate for the Cottage’s sexual assault hotline for two years. Beyond Athens, she has gained valuable experience by shadowing and interviewing genetic counselors at prestigious institutions such as Emory’s Lysosomal Storage Disorders unit and Wellstar Hospital, hoping to offer guidance to fellow students interested in pursuing careers in genetic counseling. On campus, Gabriella serves as a peer tutor and is a trained DJ for WUOG, UGA’s radio station. She eagerly anticipates supporting and building connections with other pre-professional students, providing both emotional support and friendship.
Zaya is a sophomore from Athens, majoring in human development and family science (HDFS). After graduating, Zaya plans to attend nursing school to earn a master’s in nursing and become a travel nurse. On campus, Zaya is actively involved in the Black Affairs Council, the Pre-Nursing Society, Shop with a Bulldog (SWAB), and also works with the Office of Service Learning’s Sports and Literacy Program. Off campus, Zaya volunteers at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital. As a pre-nursing ambassador, Zaya aims to help students understand that they are not alone and that there are always people available to support them on their journey.
Emma is a third-year pre-occupational therapy student from Brunswick majoring in psychology and minoring in human development and family science. Following graduation, she plans to attend occupational therapy school to get her doctorate. On campus, she works at Extra Special People (ESP), is a member of Omega Tau (UGA’s Pre-OT club), and is highly involved and holds a leadership position in her Panhellenic sorority. She also volunteers locally, two places being ESP and Piedmont. Over winter break, Emma will advance her knowledge in healthcare as she travels with UGA VAW to Guatemala as an intern. While there, she will be setting up medical clinics and providing care to the local citizens. Shadowing various medical professionals in occupational therapy has furthered her passion for the field of healthcare and has given her a holistic perspective on being a pre-OT student. She hopes to share her passion with other students and help guide them in achieving their pre-professional goals.
Jessie is a rising junior studying exercise and sports science on track to become an occupational therapist. She is deeply involved in campus life, including being a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, Omega Tau Society, SOUL and Club Swim. Off campus, she volunteers with Watkinsville First Baptist Church and Project Safe, while also leading a high school girls’ Bible study. Her passion for occupational therapy started after shadowing various OT’s in the northeast GA area, ultimately resulting in her ambition to become an ambassador for this field. Her goal is to encourage and support students to pursue their passions and achieve their professional goals.
Mara Jane is a fourth-year student from Canton majoring in biology. After obtaining her undergraduate degree, she plans to attend optometry school. From working under optometrists and as a technician, she has gained a passion for helping others with their vision needs. She is involved in the UGA Pre-Optometry Club where she works as the president. In her sorority, she has served as the assistant director of philanthropy and director of academic excellence. She studied abroad in Greece to study the Greek Financial Crisis. She enjoys spending time outside, going on walks with friends, and reading in her free time. As a pre-professional student ambassador, Mara Jane is excited to offer advice and help guide students through their pre-professional journey!
Kimberly is a second-year student from Dunwoody majoring in biological sciences. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she plans to attend optometry school. She is currently the recruitment chair for the UGA Pre-Optometry Club and will be interning for an ophthalmology practice this summer. She shadowed her aunt many years ago when she was a freshman in high school. She has gained a passion for studying the eyes since then. Kimberly just studied abroad in Cuba and studied sustainability and economic transition. She enjoys exercising, time with friends, and shopping. She is honored and excited to help other students chase their dreams!
Elizabeth is a third-year student from Milltown, NJ. She is an exercise and sport science major on the pre-PT track. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she hopes to attend graduate school and then become a pediatric physical therapist. She has previously shadowed a pediatric physical therapist and loves the idea of working with babies and children. She is a part of UGA’s Rho Tau Pre-Physical Therapy Club. She also spends some of her time volunteering at UGA’s Food Pantry and taking part in service events for her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, where she also helps with the fight against food insecurity. In addition to these activities, Elizabeth loves running, going on walks with her friends, and reading. She is very excited to meet other students on the pre-PT track, help answer any questions they may have and provide them tips and advice about the pre-PT journey!
Finley is a third-year student from Marietta pursuing a major in exercise and sport science and a minor in general business. After graduation, she has plans of attending a doctoral program in physical therapy and further specializing in sports. On campus, she is involved in Rho Tau Pre-PT Club, Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, and Exercise is Medicine Club as the director of communications. Finley also volunteers at the UGA Campus Kitchen and Arbor Terrace assisted living community through UGA SOUL. In her free time she enjoys working out and going on walks down Milledge Avenue with her friends. Finley has shadowed in multiple PT settings and currently works as a physical therapy aide, which has provided her with valuable insight into a field she is so passionate about! As a PPSA, Finley hopes to provide aspiring PT students with valuable resources and give them support and encouragement throughout their pre-professional journey.
Emily is a fourth-year undergraduate student from Evans majoring in exercise and sports science and minoring in personal health and well-being. She currently serves as the co-president of Rho Tau Pre-PT Club and is also involved in Alpha Epsilon Delta, Undergraduate Pediatric Society, and Exercise is Medicine. Emily has also gained valuable experience through volunteer opportunities with St. Mary’s Outpatient Rehabilitation, Athens Neuro and Balance Rehabilitation, and UGA’s Health Disparities and Equity Service Program. Off campus, you can find her working as a PT technician, coaching with Girls on the Run, or volunteering as a Campus Kitchen shift leader. In her free time, she also enjoys attending concerts with friends, reading, and watching movies. Emily looks forward to supporting the academic and professional pursuits of UGA pre-PT students and is thrilled to work with peers that share her enthusiasm for physical activity and wellness!
Erin is a third-year exercise and sport science student from Milton. Following graduation, she plans to attend physician associate graduate school. On campus, she works at the UGA Visitors Center as a university tour guide, is involved with the Pre-PA Association at UGA, the UGA Mentor Program, the Red Cross Club, and has held multiple leadership positions in her Panhellenic sorority. She also volunteers locally with the Thomas Lay After School Program. Shadowing various medical professionals has furthered her passion for the fields of medicine and healthcare and has given her a holistic perspective on being a pre-health student. She hopes to share her passion with other students and help guide them in achieving their pre-professional goals. As a PPSA, Erin is extremely excited to serve fellow pre-PA students, connect them with resources and support on campus, and be a friend for others to rely on!
Samantha is a third-year student from Cincinnati, Ohio, majoring in nutritional sciences. After receiving her undergraduate degree, Samantha plans to attend physician associate graduate school. On campus, she is involved with UGA Miracle which serves children and families at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and holds a position in her Panhellenic sorority. She interns at the Urgent Care of Oconee during the school year and works at a family practice office in her hometown. Through interning and shadowing, she enjoys working with others, especially pediatrics. As a PPSA, she is excited to engage with her peers, learn from new perspectives, and share resources to facilitate their pathway at UGA.
Sara is a fourth-year public health major with an emphasis in health promotion from Marietta. After graduating from UGA, she intends to apply to PA school, after working as an MA in her gap year to gain clinical experience. She transferred from Georgia College and State University to UGA during her sophomore year. She enjoys volunteering and working with underserved communities. On campus, she is a part of the Pre-PA Association at UGA and the Red Cross Club. Sara is currently taking an MA certification course to build her skills and gain patient experience. She is excited to work with other pre-PA students by helping them explore their interests in healthcare, build connections, and find resources to succeed.
Jaclyn is a third-year student from Carmel, New York. She recently got into Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine! She has a passion for animals, specifically equine and livestock, and is eager to share this passion. On campus, she is involved in the Pre-Vet Club, Sigma Alpha (the professional agriculture sorority), Club IHSA Equestrian Team, and the Dairy Science Club. She is also involved in undergraduate research and has worked on projects with dairy calves as well as swine! As a PPSA, Jaclyn strives to increase awareness for the PPAO so students can utilize this wonderful resource and know they are not alone on the difficult career path they choose.
