Pre-Professional Student Ambassador

Giselle Bertin

Giselle is a fourth-year student from Lawrenceville double majoring in political science and international affairs with minors in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State and Korean Language and Culture. She plans to use her political science and international affairs degree to become an attorney in the intentional sector. On campus, Giselle is the vice president of A Pinch and a Dash , on the SPIASU planning committee, and on the social media committee for PoliTalk Society. Outside of school, Giselle is exploring trial law preparation through an internship with Georgia’s Public Defender’s Council. She also volunteers as a campaign assistant for LaKeisha Gantt, a mayoral candidate for Athens. As a PPSA, Giselle looks forward to sharing her experience and helping guide other students on their pre-law journey!

John Hana

John is an honors finance and real estate double-major with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. He is a Lenoard Leadership Scholar through the Institute for Leadership Advancement and is also pursuing a certificate in legal studies at Terry. John is the president of the Corporate Pre-Law Society, a member of the Student Alumni Council and the Honors Student Council, the treasurer of Orthodox Christian Campus Ministries and the Real Estate Society, and an Honors Ambassador. He loves getting involved all around campus, meeting new people and building relationships. John strives to leave a major impact on the University of Georgia. John has always had a passion for corporate law and looks to make his mark on UGA by empowering his peers to achieve their future career goals within Terry and the UGA Law School.

Gracie Helou

Gracie is a third-year student from Brentwood, Tennessee, double-majoring in psychology and public relations with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. She hopes to attend law school to specialize in sports law. On campus, Gracie is involved with University Judiciary, serving as a justice. She is also involved with Extra Special People, Kappa Alpha Pi pre-law fraternity, Undergraduates at Law, Girls Club, and Greek life. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys hiking, listening to music, and spending time with friends. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Gracie hopes to encourage both incoming and current pre-law students to take every opportunity and challenge themselves. She looks forward to sharing her interests and help other students to pursue careers in law.

Shivani Kapadia

Shivani is a fourth-year student from Donalsonville majoring in political science with minors in criminal justice, sociology, and Law, Justice, and the State. On campus, Shivani serves as a senator for the Student Government Association,  brief writer and oral advocate for UGA’s Undergraduate Moot Court team, a SPIA student ambassador, a staff writer for the Georgia Political Review, and a classroom AV/audio support student assistant. Off campus, she interned with the Office of the Public Defender for the Pataula circuit and currently works as a runner for a law firm in Athens. In her free time, she enjoys contributing to the community as a service ambassador for ServeUGA, spending time with friends and family, and reading. After graduation, Shivani plans to attend law school to practice criminal law. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, she hopes to push others to be the best versions of themselves and help them reach their goals.

Ava von Kutzleben

Ava is from Atlanta and is a rising third-year on the pre-law track, double-majoring in neuroscience and psychology and minoring in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. After graduation, she hopes to work in medical malpractice or corporate medical law. Outside of academics, she serves on UGA Miracle’s leadership board as production assistant chair, is an ambassador for Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, and is involved with American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics, Alpha Chi Omega, and Order of Omega. She has been learning German for 10 years and will attend Franklin College of Arts and Sciences’s Microbiology in Munich program this summer. As a PPSA, Ava is excited to support pre-law students and encourage others to combine it with their passions, showing there’s no single path and the best ones often mix interests and challenge you along the way.

Nicolas Ricco

Nicolas is a second-year student from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, majoring in English with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. He is the vice president of the American Society of Law, Medicine, & Ethics, and part of UGA’s pre-law fraternity, Phi Alpha Delta. His experience with the Pre-Professional Advising Office dates back to his first semester at UGA, when he completed their Legal Disparities and Service certificate. In his free time, Nicolas enjoys playing sports like soccer, tennis, and basketball; reading; and watching Netflix. After graduation, he plans to attend law school and practice as a corporate litigator. Nicolas looks forward to offering guidance and support to students on the pre-law path through the PPAO.

Aarya Shah 

Aarya is a fourth-year honors student from Suwanee, triple-majoring in criminal justice, sociology, and political science with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. On campus, she serves as a justice for the University Judiciary, is a member of the 34th and 35th classes of the Arch Society, and previously volunteered as a shift leader for Campus Kitchens. Off campus, she interned with the Western Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office and served as a legislative fellow with the Spencer Frye Fellowship. After graduation, Aarya plans to attend law school and pursue a career as an attorney. In her free time, she enjoys reading, exercising, and spending time with her friends. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Aarya is excited to support her fellow pre-law students and help them navigate their journey to law school.

Claire Whybrew

Claire is a third-year student from Jackson, Tennessee, double-majoring in English and political science with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. On campus, she is a member of Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law and Government Fraternity, Pi Beta Phi sorority, and SPIA Student Union. She has interned in Athens with Downtown Ministries where she interacted with Athens residents through working at a local soup kitchen and pre-K – 5 school. She has also interned for the mayor of her hometown as well as worked as a runner at a local law firm. After graduation from UGA, she plans to attend law school where she will continue to grow her passion for learning about the law. Outside of academics, she enjoys reading, walking with friends, and trying new restaurants around Athens. As a PPSA, she is extremely excited to help students find resources and navigate the pre-law path through guidance and support.

Kaden Bass

Kaden is a second-year pre-medical student from Dacula, majoring in biology with an emphasis in neuroscience and minoring in biomedical physiology. After graduating he plans to attend medical school and ultimately become a physician. He is a peer tutor in various subjects through the Office for Student Success and Achievement, volunteers with Extra Special People, and the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia. Kaden participated in  “UGA in Rome,” a study abroad program through Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. Outside of academics, Kaden enjoys playing pickleball, line dancing, and trying new restaurants. He is extremely excited to help fellow students navigate their pre-professional journeys and cannot wait to share his experiences!

Lillian Cook

Lillian is a third-year pre-medical student from Athens, majoring in genetics and minoring in Spanish. After completing undergrad, she plans to attend medical school and specialize in pediatrics. On campus, Lillian is involved with the Institute for Leadership Advancement, and serves as an advisor/advocate for University Judiciary, as well as an undergrad research assistant in plant biology. Off campus, she volunteers at Extra Special People, Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital, and is a caregiver for local Athens families. During her free time, Lillian enjoys grabbing coffee with friends, trying new restaurants, reading, traveling with friends, and running. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Lillian is looking forward to connecting with other students and serving as a resource for any questions or concerns they might have throughout their time here at UGA.

Rob Fuss

Rob is a fourth-year pre-medical student from Sandy Springs, pursuing his bachelor of science in biology and psychology. On campus, Rob actively participates in UGA Miracle on the hospital relations branch, Extra Special People, and Young Life Capernaum. He also conducts research exploring caregiver emotions around hearing loss. Rob works at Prime Time Pediatrics in Athens and at Peachtree Orthopedics Clinic back at home in Sandy Springs and surrounding locations. He loves running, hiking, and pickleball, among other sports in his free time. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Rob is here for you whether you need advice on courses, extracurriculars, or just someone to talk it all through with.

Tanvi Kamat

Tanvi is a fourth year Morehead Honors College student majoring in genetics on the pre-med track. After completing undergrad, she plans to attend medical school and specialize in women’s health. On campus, she was involved in Equal Education for Athens, research, and ArtRx, an art club she founded. In the past, Tanvi has also volunteered at WellStar in Atlanta and the emergency department at St. Mary’s Hospital. She interned as a medical scribe at Lake Country Medical Group. Outside of the classroom, she loves crocheting, baking, and spending time with her friends. Tanvi also enjoys volunteering at The Entangled Cat Cafe, as cats are her favorite animal! As a PPSA, Tanvi is very excited to meet other pre-med students and aid in their journey at UGA!

William Kimbro

William is a fourth-year pre-medical student from Nashville, Georgia, majoring in biological sciences. He plans to attend medical school after graduation and hopes to practice as a physician in a rural community. On campus, William is actively involved in undergraduate research within the UGA Regenerative Bioscience Center, participates in UGA Miracle, and is a member of Phi Gamma Delta. Beyond campus, he volunteers at the University Cancer and Blood Center and works as an EMT with Halifax EMS. In his free time, William enjoys playing golf, running, and spending time with friends and family. As a PPSA, he is excited to support fellow students as they navigate the pre-medical path.

Katie LeMaster 

Katie is a fourth-year biology major with minors in chemistry and general business from Grayson. After graduating from UGA, she plans to take a gap year before attending medical school to pursue her dream of becoming a physician. On campus, Katie previously conducted undergraduate research in cellular biology and currently serves as the president of the Medical Business Association. She has also participated in the Health in South Africa winter break program and the Cortona Science and Art History Maymester through UGA study abroad. Outside of campus, Katie volunteers as a patient advocate and liaison at Mercy Health Center, where she enjoys supporting and connecting with patients. When she’s not studying, you can find her reading, spending time with friends and family, scrolling through Pinterest, playing tennis, or trying new crafts. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Katie is excited to support other students on their pre-med journeys by connecting them with resources and sharing her own experiences.

Turner MacInnis

Turner is a fourth-year pre-medical student from Marietta, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology. On campus, Turner is an active member of Alpha Epsilon Pi, and Phi Delta Epsilon, serves as a Peer Learning Assistant, and conducts infectious disease research in the Brindley Lab. Outside of academics, he volunteers at Piedmont Athens Regional and at the Winship Cancer Institute in Atlanta. Turner also works as a CNA for Holbrook Enriched Living in Woodstock. He enjoys running, lifting weights, thrifting, collecting physical media, and camping with friends. Turner is a transfer student who started at UGA during the spring semester of his sophomore year. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Turner will support you whether you need advice on curriculum and navigating the pre-medical journey, or just a peer to speak with who understands. He is excited to connect with and help students make the most of their time.

Saumya Palipudi

Saumya is a third-year student majoring in neuroscience and minoring in public health on the pre-med track. After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician. On campus, Saumya is involved in CURO undergraduate research within the Department of Kinesiology’s Integrative Cardiovascular Physiology Lab. She volunteers at Piedmont Athens Regional hospital and serves as a volunteer peer mentor for the Destination Dawgs peer mentoring program. In addition, she works as a desk assistant for University Housing at UGA. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys working out at the gym, singing, playing the violin, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. She is looking forward to connecting with other pre-med students, sharing resources and opportunities, giving advice regarding the pre-med journey at UGA, and also building friendships and socializing with others. Feel free to reach out!

Jacob Sillyman

Jacob is a second-year student from LaGrange, majoring in biology on the pre-med track. After completing his undergraduate degree, he plans to attend medical school and specialize in orthopedic surgery. On campus, Jacob serves as a resident assistant, is on the executive board for the UGA American Red Cross chapter, and is a member of UGA Médecins Sans Frontières. He also works as an undergraduate research assistant in the Ye Research Lab, where he investigates molecular mechanisms linking genetic variants to metabolic traits and disease risk. Off campus, Jacob volunteers with Family Hospice, the UGA Fresh Express Food Pantry, and previously volunteered with the WellStar West Georgia Medical Center Volunteen Program, primarily in the surgery department. He also gained hands-on patient care experience as a patient transporter at WellStar, devoting over 500 hours to patient care. In his free time, he loves playing golf and enjoys connecting with his residents and hanging with friends. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Jacob is excited to support fellow pre-med students and share the experiences and resources that have shaped his own journey at UGA. Go Dawgs!

Mariana Vega Aranda

Mariana is a third-year pre-med student originally from Mexico, now living in Georgia, pursuing a major in regenerative bioscience, a minor in biomedical physiology, and a certificate in informatics. She is on the pre-med track with interests in pediatrics and surgery, while remaining open to exploring other specialties. On campus, she is involved in the Latino Medical Student Association PLUS and works as an undergraduate research assistant. Off campus, Mariana volunteers at Mercy Health Center, the University Cancer & Blood Center, Oasis Tutoring, and Casa de Amistad. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, being with loved ones, listening to music, going to the gym, and watching thrillers. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Mariana hopes to be a welcoming resource for other students by helping them feel supported, seen, and confident as they navigate their own pre-health journeys. You belong here!

Nicole Zhang 

Nicole is a fourth-year biomedical physiology major with a minor in sociology. Upon graduating UGA, she plans to take a gap year prior to attending medical school. On campus, she is involved with IMPACT service trips, Biomedical Physiology Undergraduate Society (BIPH) and Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s (YMAA). She is also involved in research focusing on Parkinson’s disease, as well as a peer learning assistant for VPHY 3108. In her free time, she likes to explore new places, watch the latest films, and practice photography. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Nicole is excited to be the upperclassman mentor students can come to for advice and guidance, or for a supportive friend to talk to!

Madeline Abbott

Madeline is a third-year student from Peachtree City, majoring in psychology with a focus on neuroscience and minoring in biology. After graduating from UGA, she plans to attend an anesthesiologist assistant program to earn her master’s degree and pursue her career in the field. On campus, she is a part of UGA miracle, the Pre-AA club, and Alpha Phi. Off campus, she volunteers at Affinity Hospice and works as a patient care technician at Piedmont Athens Regional hospital. She loves running, traveling, and spending time with friends in her free time. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Madeline is excited to support students who also share a passion for the pre-AA path as they pursue their goals in healthcare.

Esha Mehta 

Esha is a fourth-year student from Lilburn, majoring in biology with a minor in chemistry. After graduating from UGA, she hopes to attend an anesthesiologist assistant program to receive her master’s degree and pursue her career. On campus, she holds a leadership position in the organization Equal Education for Athens and is a member of the Office of Instruction Student Advisory Board. Off campus, she volunteers at local Athens-Clarke County elementary schools with the Coaching4Success program and works as a student intern at Atlas Spine and Balance. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Esha hopes to provide students with the same help and support that she received from the Pre-Professional Advising Office when she was an underclassman!

Sophia Stonebrook

Sophia is a fourth-year student from Alpharetta, majoring in biomedical physiology. On campus, she is involved in Campus Girl Scouts, the Pre-Anesthesiologist Assistant Association, Sigma Kappa sorority, and UGA Rural Health Initiative. She also serves as a student panelist for UGA’s Office of Academic Honesty. Off campus, she works as a medical assistant at an internal medicine office in Watkinsville, where she can continue developing valuable patient care and clinical skills. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Sophia hopes to support other pre-AA students as they navigate the pre-AA track, from exploring the profession to preparing their application!

Anna Ale

Anna is a third-year student from Dacula in the Morehead Honors College, majoring in biology with a minor in general business on the pre-dental track. On campus, she serves on the executive board of the African Student Union, is an Experience UGA Ambassador, and is a member of UGA’s Institute for Leadership Advancement (ILA) Fellows Program. Outside of academics, Anna enjoys sewing, going on walks, playing the flute, and spending time with her friends. After graduation, she plans to attend dental school and pursue a career in dentistry. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Anna is excited to connect with other pre-dental students, share helpful resources, and offer guidance through her own experiences as they navigate their journeys toward achieving their goals.

Sweeya Boorla

Sweeya is a fourth-year student from Johns Creek majoring in cellular biology. After graduating, she plans to attend dental school. On campus, Sweeya serves as Director of Internal Communications and Director of Advisory Board for UGA Red Cross, Pre-Dental Affairs Chair for Dental Minority Dawgs, and an organic chemistry learning assistant (CLA). She has conducted research for three years on the role of complex glycans in pathogenicity, presenting her findings at CURO. Off campus, Sweeya works as a part-time dental assistant and volunteers with Campus Kitchen and the University Cancer Blood Center. She was also a member of a competitive dance team. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Sweeya looks forward to guiding pre-dental students through the challenges and rewards of the pathway.

LaDaniel Daley

LaDaniel is a fourth-year student from Macon, majoring in biology. After obtaining his undergraduate degree, he plans to attend dental school. On campus, LaDaniel is External President of the Dental Minority Dawgs. He is also a Georgia Commitment Scholar Ambassador and the founder of Campus Elves. LaDaniel is a proud member of the Pre-Dental Society and serves as a chemistry learning assistant (CLA). Off campus, LaDaniel likes to volunteer/assist at Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry and Davis Dental Care. LaDaniel went to Guatemala through UGA VAW in December 2024 for a dental internship. He studied abroad in Costa Rica for Spanish, Italy through the Science & Art History program, and Belize through the Health in Belize Summer collaboration between the OGE and PPAO. As the PPSA pre-health co-leader, LaDaniel is excited to continue working alongside his peers and offer guidance to students, helping them stay on track to successfully matriculate into professional schools.

Diya Garrepally

Diya is a third-year student from Marietta, majoring in regenerative bioscience. She plans to attend dental school after graduating in spring 2028. On campus, Diya is involved with the executive board for Pre-Dental Society, The Backpack Project of Athens, and research. In her free time, she loves to try new Athens restaurants, play the cello, and bake with friends. Diya is so excited to get to know and guide other students pursuing dentistry!

Sarah Haddock

Sarah is a third-year biology major from Peachtree City, pursuing minors in general business and chemistry. She is actively involved on campus as a member of the executive boards for the Pre-Dental Society and Crafted for Care. Passionate about service and community outreach, Sarah volunteers with the Athens Humane Society and recently expanded her global perspective through a dental mission trip to Panama with the UGA Dental Brigades in December 2025. Through these experiences, she continues to grow her interest in dentistry and patient care. In her free time, Sarah enjoys cooking, practicing Pilates, and crafting. She is excited to serve as a PPSA and looks forward to helping guide younger students as they navigate their journeys to dental school!

Ethan Ko

Ethan is a fourth-year biomedical physiology major with minors in gerontology and biology. He plans to attend dental school after graduation. On campus, Ethan serves as the vice president of the Korean Undergraduate Student Association, a chemistry learning assistant CLA), and is an active member of the Pre-Dental Society. Off campus, he works as a dental assistant, volunteers as a shift leader for Campus Kitchen, and has participated in dental and medical mission trips to the Dominican Republic and Mexico. In his free time Ethan loves to rock climb, is an avid snowboarder, and an aspiring cook. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, he hopes to support and give tips to students as they begin their professional journey.

Deveny Gilmore

Deveny is a third year genetics major with a human services minor with a focus in genetic counseling. She is a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority and the GENES club. Deveny is currently an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Li Yang’s plant pathology lab where she performs several duties including genotyping, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Additionally, Deveny led a science communication project with the College of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and presented her findings to the CURO symposium. She has several resources and pieces of insight for pre-genetic counseling students and is a resource for academic assistance, course planning, questions about grad school, research opportunity search, and future career questions.

Ava Marcus

Ava is a third-year student from Chicago, majoring in psychology with an emphasis in neuroscience and minoring in genetics and nutritional sciences. Following graduation, she plans to obtain a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling and work in neurogenetics. Ava serves as the vice president of GENES, conducts research with Dr. Emily Noble in the Nutritional Neuroscience Lab, volunteers as a literacy mentor with Books for Keeps, and is a school lesson leader for the Lunchbox Garden Project. She loves backpacking new countries, hiking, and weightlifting in her free time. Ava is excited to be a knowledgeable resource for pre-genetic counseling students and further promote the career path alongside a community of other student ambassadors!

Maddie Anderson

Maddie is a second-year student from Fayetteville, currently majoring in Human Development and Family Science on the pre-nursing track. Following graduation, she plans to attend a Master of Science in Nursing program to become a travel nurse practitioner. On campus, Maddie volunteers at various after-school programs, including ASMP volunteering at Fowler Drive Elementary School and Thomas Lay After School Program. She is also a Service Ambassador for ServeUGA and the volunteer coordinator for Pre-Nursing Society. Over the summer, Maddie studied abroad in Belize with the Pre-Professional Advising Office. In her free time, Maddie loves to cook/bake, strength train, make origami, and go to concerts or listen to music. She hopes to share her values of helping others with aspiring nurses and educate people about resources that will benefit their career journey.

Zaya Roberson

Zaya is a fourth year student from Athens majoring in Human Development and Family Science on the pre-nursing track and minoring in Behavioral Health. She has earned a certificate in Health Disparities & Equity. After graduating from UGA, Zaya plans to attend a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program to become a travel nurse practitioner. On campus, she serves as the volunteer coordinator for the Pre-Nursing Society, is an Experience UGA Ambassador, a member of the Student Alumni Council, and a Public Service and Outreach (PSO) Scholar. She volunteers with Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital, Innovative Healthcare Institute, Clarke County Mentor Program, and the Barnett Shoals Special Education Program. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and trying new restaurants. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Zaya is most excited to help grow and support the pre-nursing community.

Samantha Wynne

Samantha is a third-year student from Marietta,  majoring in public health with an emphasis in health services. After graduation, she plans to attend a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) program and specialize in either women’s health or pediatrics. She currently works as a patient care technician, helping provide both clinical and daily care while gaining valuable hands-on experience. On campus, she enjoys playing intramural volleyball and is involved in the Pre-Nursing Club and the American Medical Student Association (AMSA). She is also a volunteer at St. Mary’s Hospital in the emergency department. One of her most eye opening moments was shadowing at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta on the blood disorders unit and seeing how the healthcare teams compassionately worked to make children feel as comfortable as possible during difficult treatments. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Samantha looks forward to connecting with students and helping them explore opportunities at UGA.

Anna Franklin

A senior from Milton, Anna is majoring in psychology and plans to attend graduate school to pursue a doctorate in occupational therapy. She is passionate about helping others through healthcare and is dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of the occupational therapy profession. On campus and in the community, she volunteers with Butterfly Dream Farms, where she has gained valuable experience working with individuals of diverse abilities and backgrounds. In addition, she works as a rehabilitation aide at Athens Orthopedic Clinic, which has further strengthened her passion for occupational therapy and patient care. Through her experiences, she hopes to support and guide other students by helping them better understand the impact of occupational therapy and encouraging them in their own pre-professional journeys.

Vivian Youngblood

Vivian is a third-year pre-occupational therapy student majoring in psychology with an emphasis in neuroscience and a minor in French. She hopes to obtain her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy after completing undergrad at UGA. In addition to academics, Vivian is involved in Greek Life, volunteering at ESP Athens, intramural pickleball, and is a PLA for Anatomy and Physiology. She also works part time as a rehab therapy technician at Encompass Health Rehab. With a love for working with people while also being involved in healthcare, Vivian found that a career in OT seemed like the best fit for her, and she hopes that this role will allow her to help other students make the best career decision for themselves.

Kimberly Pham

Kimberly is a fourth-year student from Dunwoody majoring in biological sciences and minoring in Horticulture. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she plans to attend optometry school. She is currently the president of the UGA Pre-Optometry Club and has been a PPSA for three years. Kimberly developed a strong interest in optometry through extensive clinical, shadowing, and leadership experiences. She also gained a global perspective on healthcare through study abroad programs in Cuba and South Africa and studied in Vietnam last summer. Through her involvement on campus and in clinical settings, Kimberly is passionate about supporting others and helping students navigate their paths toward careers in optometry. She is honored and excited to help other students chase their dreams!

Natalie Thompson

Natalie is a third year from Dunwoody majoring in biology and minoring in cognitive science with an emphasis in neuroscience! She plans to attend optometry school after UGA. Natalie is currently the social media chair for the UGA Pre-Optometry Club. She spent this summer working as an optometric technician at her local optometry office and studying microbiology abroad in Munich, Germany. She has been interested in optometry ever since she found out about her low risk for glaucoma and wants to make patients feel cared for the way that she was. In her free time, she enjoys running, watching TV shows/movies, hanging out with friends, and traveling! Natalie can’t wait to tell more students about the Pre-Optometry path!

Michelle Tran

Michelle is a junior majoring in management information systems on the Pre-Optometry track. She has gained valuable experience shadowing both corporate and private optometry practices and hopes to combine her business background with her passion for eye care by opening her own practice one day. On campus, Michelle is involved in the UGA Pre-Optometry Club, works as a student assistant for the UGA Finance Communications team, and participates in the UGA Mentor Program. In her free time, she enjoys trying new restaurants, volunteering, practicing yoga, and baking. Her favorite volunteer experience in Athens is teaching students at Winterville Elementary School about the importance of nutrition. Michelle hopes to specialize in pediatric optometry in the future.

Riya Patel  

Riya is a fourth-year student from Milledgeville. She is double majoring in cellular biology and biomedical physiology with a minor in chemistry. She is on the pre-PT track and is applying to DPT programs this cycle! On campus, Riya works as a chemistry learning assistant, conducts research at the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, and serves as the treasurer and development coordinator for Camp Kesem, a non-profit organization supporting children whose parents have been impacted by cancer. Off campus, Riya volunteers with St. Mary’s Hospital, Campus Kitchens, Books for Keeps, and works as a PT Aide in an Athens clinic. Riya also served as a 2024 Dawg Camp Discovery counselor helping incoming freshmen transition to UGA. In her free time, she enjoys working out, shopping, and finding new coffee shops in Athens! As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Riya is eager to support other pre-PT students as they pursue their goals.

Taylor Waits

Taylor is a fourth-year student from Warner Robins. She is a biology and psychology double major and is on the pre-PT track. She plans to apply to PT school during the 2026 cycle. On campus, Taylor has served as a chemistry learning assistant (CL:A), volunteered with the UGA Food Pantry, and been involved with Shop with a Bulldawg as an internal committee member. Off campus, Taylor is a certified trainer and area lead at Chick-fil-A and has volunteered supporting an individual with disabilities in the local community. Taylor has shadowed multiple PT settings including outpatient orthopedics, acute care, pediatrics, neurology, and inpatient rehabilitation. In her free time, she enjoys Pilates, puzzles and spending time with friends and family. She is excited to share her experiences and guide others on their journeys to becoming a physical therapist.

Mackenzie Britt

Mackenzie is a fourth-year pre-physician assistant student from Cumming, pursuing her degree in nutritional sciences. On campus, Mackenzie is a part of the Pre-PA Association, Greek Life, and UGA Volunteers Around the World where she led a medical outreach team to Peru. She also volunteers at University Cancer and Blood Center and the Clarke County Mentor Program. Outside of class, she enjoys cooking, yoga, and hanging out with her friends. As a Pre-Professional Student Ambassador, Mackenzie is excited to support incoming students and help them achieve their goals!

Annie Gjyrezi

Annie is a third-year undergraduate student from Bergen County, New Jersey. She is majoring in biology and plans to attend a physician assistant program after graduation. Annie is involved in the Pre-Physician Assistant Association, Kappa Delta sorority, and the Undergraduate Pediatric Society here at UGA. Additionally, Annie will be participating in epidemiology research in the fall. Annie also works part time as a newborn hearing screen technician at Piedmont Hospital in Athens, and as a barista at Jittery Joe’s coffee shop around campus! Annie is excited for the future experiences through PPSA and cannot wait to connect with others and encourage students on their professional journey!

Eric Smith

Eric is a third-year student from Houston, Texas, majoring in Exercise & Sport Science. Before attending UGA, he played collegiate baseball at Trinity University. After an injury sidelined him during his freshman year, Eric shifted his focus toward healthcare, transferred to UGA, and is now pursuing a career as a physician associate. Eric serves as an undergraduate research assistant in the Human Nutrition Lab and is a member of the Pre-PA Association. He has also gained clinical experience as an athletic training aide with both Trinity University Sports Medicine and the University of Georgia Football Team. Outside of his academic pursuits, Eric is a member of Beta Upsilon Chi, volunteers with Young Life at Jefferson High School, and serves as a Resident Assistant in Vandiver Hall. Eric is excited to meet students considering a career in the health professions and hopes to provide them with support and resources as they embark on their pre-health journey.

Isabella Arnold

Isabella is a fourth-year student from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is an animal biosciences major on the pre-veterinary track, with plans to attend veterinary school after graduation. On campus, Isabella is involved with the Dawgs Raising Dogs club, Pre-Vet club, Rescue Paws, Dairy Science Club, Block and Bridle, and is also a member of the Delta Zeta sorority. She also enjoys volunteering at the local animal shelters and helping animals in need. Over her summers she spends her time as a veterinary assistant at Angel Animal Hospital in Estero, Florida. Her love for veterinary medicine began over her summers working on her beef cattle farm in Pennsylvania. Isabella is extremely excited to be a PPSA and help those who share the same love of veterinary medicine as her.

Makaela Singer

Makaela is a second-year student from Charlotte, NC, majoring in avian biology, biological science, and animal biosciences and minoring in Spanish and biology. After graduation, she plans to go to veterinary school. Her on-campus involvements include, Puppies and Pilates and BOLD Modeling among others. She also likes to volunteer at the humane society and spends her time working as a veterinary assistant. Through shadowing multiple clinics and getting hands-on experience with various animals, Makaela has developed her passion for veterinary medicine. She hopes to help others find various experiences and opportunities, and develop their interest in veterinary medicine all while building relationships with other pre-vet students.