Simran Patel

Pre-medical student from Vicksburg, MS

Why did you decide to pursue this health profession? From a young age, I’ve always had an interest in science and wanted to apply that to a viable career later on. Medicine seemed like the best option as it has many specialities to explore and allows physicians to do research as well if they wish too.

Major: Biology

Why did you choose this major? I’m majoring in biology because I had a great experience with dissecting and doing experiments in my 9th grade bio class. The time I spent in that class just stuck with me and I really couldn’t imagine myself majoring in anything else!

How has HPAO helped you on your pre-health journey? It had definitely kept me on track with everything from classes to my well-being as a whole. They’ve opened a lot of doors for me by informing me about research, shadowing, and volunteering opportunities. Also, I wouldn’t have know about the many student organizations catered towards health professions without visiting HPAO.

What is your most memorable HPAO experience? Mississippi Day for sure! It was great to see the entire community come out along with prospective students and visit our booth to get to learn more about HPAO. The conversations I had that day were a major part of making it memorable along with how many people got excited about the bone pens!

What are your career goals? I plan on taking a gap year and pursuing a masters before I attend medical school. As far as specialities I’d like to work within later on, psychiatry or pathology interest me the most.

What are you the happiest doing? Taking a walk, watching a movie, or working out

What is your favorite study spot? Honor College or Lamar Hall

What is your favorite meal in Oxford? Veggie Tacos from the Taco Shop or a Gyro from Opa