I heard about the HPME program through a friend of the family.  I applied to the program as I was excited to learn that I could pursue any major I wanted and still be premed.  At that time I was under the impression that premed students had to be biology majors.

During my undergraduate years, I was involved in a myriad of extracurricular activities and interests, including Northwestern Raas, SEED, and my study abroad experience.  Raas, a traditional Indian dance, has always been a passion of mine.  When I arrived on campus as a freshman and realized there was not a Raas team at NU, I decided to start one.  With the help of some friends, we started a Raas team that quickly became award winning on a national level.  As an environmental science major and avid nature lover, I jumped at any opportunity to be outside.  That is why I became involved with the environmental club SEED, and volunteered for restoration work projects in the local forest preserves.

During the summer of my junior year, I had the opportunity to further pursue my interest in environmental sciences by winning a grant to perform wastewater research in a laboratory in Dresden, Germany.  Living abroad was an incredible experience. It taught me how to adjust to new cultures and lifestyles, and opened my eyes to a variety of student opportunities in the global community.  Going to Dresden sparked my interest in pursing work experiences in other parts of the world. This summer I applied for an international grant through the medical school and will be conducting research in India.  I am exploring ways to incorporate my passion for the environment with my future medical career.  Many aspects of medicine are intimately linked with environmental issues, such as infectious disease and toxicology. I see myself working in a field that combines both areas of interest and expertise. 

HPME gave me the freedom to pursue my interests and explore my options as an undergraduate.  It gave me the security of knowing that I could develop myself and identify my life goals without compromising a position in medical school.