Julia is from New York City and went to Brown University, where she graduated from in 2020. One of Julia's favorite ways to maintain balance and wellness is through physical movement. At Brown, Julia taught 305 Fitness classes (dance fitness classes modeled after a Miami nightclub!) and hopes to bring that to Downstate at some point in the future. For now, she loves finding new parks and routes around the city for running. In her free time, Julia also loves to read, play games (big Catan fan), and of course watch some good TV (just another person who won't stop talking about succession). 

Kiara is from Stockton CA, and moved to NYC in 2020 when she began teaching middle school science with Teach For America. She did her undergraduate studies at UCLA, where serving as a Resident Assistant (R.A) helped her find her passion for community building, peer support, and wellness. Outside of school, she loves making short films, journaling, reading and dog walking. When she really has time on her hands, traveling is the move! Kiara hopes to help foster a supportive community while helping folks prioritize their emotional and physical wellbeing as they pursue their dreams in medical school.

Rahat Elahi is Co Director of Mentor Care. Bio coming soon!

Alana was born and raised in South Florida. She graduated from Northwestern University in 2021, where she studied neuroscience and psychology. Alana is excited to be a part of this year's executive board, where she can contribute to the goals of promoting mental, emotional and physical wellness. She hopes to create a supportive community that fosters a smooth transition into medical school for the incoming class. Alana loves to wakeboard, can knit a scarf, and is an avid Jeopardy fan!

Will is a nontraditional student, a career-changer. He graduated from Brown University in 2014 with a degree in Economics and completed his premedical coursework at Columbia University's Postbac Premed Program for nontraditional students. Will worked at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) and strongly believes that his experience there solidified his decision to pursue medicine as his life's work. During his downtime, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, especially with his recently born niece, Eloise. He also enjoys weightlifting and running and will be participating in the 2023 TCS NYC Marathon as part of MSK's Fred's Team, raising money in support of cancer research.

Jessica is from Long Island and graduated from Cornell University in 2019. She feels very fortunate to be able to stay in New York State and continue her education here at SUNY Downstate. 

"Medical school can be stressful, but I am glad I have found ways to maintain balance. I do this by cooking myself a healthy dinner to allow myself a break between the school day and studying again in the evening. I also try to squeeze in a quick workout most days of the week by doing a Pilates class on the Sculpt Society app. I prioritize taking time on the weekends to see my friends and family."

She loves food and enjoys cooking and baking new recipes in addition to exploring restaurants all over New York City. She is also an avid runner and ran the NYC Half Marathon last year. She hopes to one day train for a full marathon!

Steven is from Fishkill, NY. He graduated from Hofstra university in 2019. Steve believes that medical school can be stressful and busy but he believes that it is important not to lose sight of oneself. 

"It is so important to make time for things that make you happy. I always leave Sundays for myself as a day to decompress and watch football. Staying active is another great way to stay well. Getting in the gym and releasing endorphins is an excellent way to boost mental health, and it's a nice break. Last but certainly not least, friends and family are so important. Making time to hang with friends (both in and out of school) is always a great way to unwind and remember there are other things out there!"

Whenever Steve is feeling overwhelmed, he loves heading to the basketball courts here at Downstate. "It's nice to get active and play pick-up with friends. Also, when the weather is nicer, heading to prospect park for a quick walk is a game changer. Nothing like a bit of sun and fresh air for a quick reset."

Sidd is Upperclassman Liaison. Bio coming soon!