What factors made you choose Harvard’s Premedical Program (PMP) over other options?
I chose Harvard’s Premedical Program because it offered the most flexible structure, which was critical for me as a nontraditional student balancing full-time work, premed coursework, and MCAT preparation. The program’s organized approach made the daunting process of switching careers feel manageable.
Where were you in your academic or professional journey before applying to the premedical program?
Before applying to the PMP, I was working as a registered nurse. While I loved patient care, I wrestled with whether to pursue nurse practitioner school or medical school. Ultimately, I chose medicine, though it felt intimidating to start this late in my career. At Harvard, I found many peers on similar paths, and the community gave me confidence that I was not alone in making this transition.
How has your Harvard Extension School (HES) experience helped you throughout your career journey?
The PMP provided invaluable structure and guidance during a challenging period of balancing work and medical school preparation. The faculty were consistently supportive, and Dr. Ryan Lee, in particular, played a crucial role in interview preparation. His mentorship and detailed feedback on mock interviews helped me approach medical school interviews with confidence and clarity.
What did you learn about your own capabilities through the rigor of your coursework? Were there any moments in particular that pushed you to grow?
I learned that I am capable of much more than I believed. I had struggled with general chemistry during undergrad, so I was intimidated to retake it. But my professors in the PMP fostered a patient, supportive environment that transformed my experience. Their reminder that “chemistry is trying” encouraged me to embrace mistakes as part of the process. That mindset helped me persist and grow — not just in chemistry, but across all challenges.
What resources did you find the most valuable during your time in the program?
The most valuable resources were the structured committee letter process and the mentorship of Dr. Ryan Lee, particularly during interview season. Having my materials prepared early through the sponsorship application gave me a significant advantage when applying to medical schools.
Was there a turning point or moment during your experience at HES that changed how you see yourself or your future?
A turning point came after completing my first semester of chemistry. I realized that my past struggles did not reflect my abilities, but rather the environment in which I was learning. With the right encouragement and teaching method, I could succeed. That shift in perspective gave me confidence not just in academics, but in my ability to reach my long-term goal of becoming a physician.
How did the PMP help you in your medical career?
The rigorous coursework, especially in chemistry and organic chemistry, prepared me exceptionally well for the MCAT and gave me a strong foundation for medical school. Beyond academics, the PMP also instilled habits of discipline and perseverance that continue to guide me in my medical training.
What was the expectation you had of Harvard? How did it live up? How did it differ?
I expected Harvard to be filled with brilliant students and faculty, which was certainly true. However, what surprised me was how accessible the content felt. The faculty broke material down into clear, digestible pieces, making even the most challenging subjects approachable for nontraditional students like me.
What advice would you give to someone considering the PMP?
I would highly recommend the PMP. The program fosters a collaborative, supportive culture that contrasts with the often cutthroat reputation of premed environments. As a nontraditional student, I faced many challenges, but the faculty, TAs, and peers I met in the PMP made this journey possible. The friendships and mentorships I gained remain some of the most valuable parts of my experience.
Describe your Extension experience in one word.
Grateful.
