Mwanday Yamegni

Hello everyone! My name is Mwanday Yamegni (she/her), and I was born in San Francisco, California, and raised in San Ramon, California. I will be graduating from Loyola Marymount University (LMU) in the spring of 2025 with a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry, and I plan to pursue a pre-medical path.

In my free time, I enjoy singing, dancing, watching TV, and playing video games.

At LMU, I worked as a research assistant in a biochemistry research lab, where I studied the genetic structure of the gag-pro frameshift site of the Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1. I had the opportunity to present my findings at both the LMU undergraduate research symposium and the National Conference on Undergraduate Research. I also served as a teaching assistant for general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry courses.

Outside of my academic work, I was the Director of Special Projects for the Gryphon Circle Service Organization, where I planned events for children in the LMU community to help them envision themselves on a college campus. Additionally, I volunteered at Cedars-Sinai’s Urgent Care Center, where I provided patient support and assisted with cleaning patient rooms after use.

Through the COMET Fellowship, I hope to gain further experience in patient care and learn from both healthcare professionals and peers.

Izabella Hernandez

My name is Izabella Hernandez and I am from El Paso, Texas. I graduated this spring from Arizona State University with a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. For the first two years of undergrad I attended the University of Texas at Austin and in 2020 I got a job at Starbucks that afforded me the benefit of paying for the rest of my Bachelor’s degree through an initiative called the Starbucks College Achievement Plan through ASU Online. Aside from lessening the financial burden for me, this opportunity gave a unique undergraduate experience where I had the flexibility to nurture my passions, grow in my leadership skills, and refine my capacity to be disciplined and self-driven.

I plan to pursue a career in Medicine with the hopes of one day becoming either an OBGYN or a Pediatrician. My long standing passion to chase after my dream of becoming a physician is one that I have had since I was a little girl. I have always had a passion for learning, caring for others, and consider it the greatest joy to follow a path that will saturate my mind with knowledge that I’ll be able to one day use to give back to someone in need. As the first person in my family to be pursuing this career path, there are a great deal of things I have had to learn about the process, the profession itself, and above all fall in love with the long journey that lies ahead. As an incoming COMET fellow I’m incredibly excited for all the people I will meet, the lessons I will learn, and the opportunities that will be available to me which I know will inspire me to be a great physician in the future. I am especially excited to get more involved in any research opportunities, become more familiar with the role of a physcian, and work hand in hand to help facilitate the deliverance of outstanding patient care in my role as a scribe.

Outside of my studies I love long distance running, spending time with my dogs, and cooking!

I just ran in my first half marathon in February and hope to do at least one more this year before running in the Austin marathon next year. Another fun fact about me is that I actually held the title of Miss El Paso USA in 2023 and really grew to love modeling and the community work that doing a beauty pageant gave me the opportunity to be involved in. Overall I can’t wait to experience life in California, meet all of my peers, and continue to foster my love for medicine.

Sandra Khalaf

Hey! My name is Sandra Khalaf and I’m currently an undergraduate at San Jose State University majoring in Biology with a concentration in Systems Physiology and minors in Chemistry and Psychology. I’m excited to graduate in May with my B.S. degree and start my journey of preparing to apply for medical school, and the COMET fellowship is a step in the right direction to help me achieve my goal!

I was born in Laguna Hills, CA, but I was raised in Amman, Jordan; when I was a few months old, my parents decided to move back home and hence I attended elementary through high school there. After graduation, my family and I moved back to California in 2020, mainly to pursue a good education.

During my time at SJSU, I joined a research lab aimed to examine the effects of stress physiology on maternal lizards and their offspring. I also participated in one of many projects conducted for that lab, where I composed and presented a poster focusing on the effects of maternal glucocorticoids on hatchling morphology. Furthermore, I volunteered at Regional Medical Center, where I had the chance to experience what it’s like to be in a hospital environment, which made me even more excited to pursue medicine and become a doctor; I had some very brief chances to shadow an orthopedic PA and I really enjoyed it. Hence, I am very excited to be a part of the COMET fellowship!

Ruslan Daudov

Hi! My name is Ruslan Daudov (he/him), but most people call me Rus. I was born and raised in Kharkiv, Ukraine, and moved to New York City with my family when I was 14. I finished high school in NYC before we moved to Los Angeles, where I now live in the San Fernando Valley.

I earned my Associate’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Santa Monica College and am currently completing my Bachelor’s in Biology at California State University, Northridge, where I will graduate in May 2025. I’ve been conducting research in Dr. Escorcia’s lab, where we study pathogenic mutations in the MAF1 protein and its non-canonical role in regulating RNA Polymerase II and lipid metabolism under stress conditions.

My interest in medicine began with a fascination for the complexity and beauty of human physiology, and it deepened as I found purpose in helping others and embracing the challenges of the field. I’ve volunteered in a neurosurgical ICU and shadowed oral and maxillofacial surgeons, which strengthened my passion for surgery and oncological treatment. 

Through the COMET program, I hope to gain early exposure to the clinical environment, learn from experienced physicians, and deepen my understanding of patient care and healthcare systems. Outside of medicine, I’m passionate about art history, working out, rock climbing, hiking, music, and reading—especially nonfiction and historical works.

I’m incredibly excited to be part of the COMET 2025–2026 cohort and look forward to learning and growing alongside such a driven and inspiring community!

Nicole Klein

Hello! My name is Nicole Klein, and I recently graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, where I pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Molecular & Cell Biology and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. My commitment to medicine is fueled by a deep curiosity about human disease and a desire to provide compassionate patient care.

My healthcare journey began at the UCSF Down Syndrome Clinic, where I witnessed the resilience of families navigating genetic disorders. This experience motivated me to complete an EMT course and work as a medical scribe at Brighter Beginnings. In these roles, I learned the intricacies of clinical documentation and effective provider-patient communication, which strengthened my ability to engage with patients meaningfully.

Research has also been a significant part of my path. At the UT Health Center Children’s Cancer Research Institute, I studied novel therapies for pediatric glioblastoma, inspired by my cousin's childhood battle with a brain tumor. This experience heightened my awareness of the urgent need for better treatments for brain cancers. Additionally, my time at the Technical University of Munich, where I engineered CAR-T cells, solidified my fascination with immunotherapy and the intersection of medicine and innovation.

Additionally, I value my time as a research technician at the Knight Lab at UCSF, where I conducted experiments focused on gene expression and appetite regulation. This role allowed me to apply my academic knowledge to real-world research, further deepening my understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying human health and disease.

The COMET Fellowship presents an exceptional opportunity for me to enhance my clinical skills while integrating my research background with direct patient interactions. I look forward to learning from esteemed physicians and collaborating with fellow COMET scribes, growing into a more empathetic and informed future physician-scientist.

Maya Hart

My name is Maya Hart, and I am excited to be returning to the Bay Area, where I grew up, and to join COMET. I have spent the last four years studying at Wellesley College and abroad at the Universidad de Córdoba, Spain and will graduate this May with a double bachelor’s degree in Biology and Spanish. Throughout my undergraduate career, I have dedicated much time to research. This year, I also completed an honors thesis in Spanish. In addition to my academic pursuits, I was an integral four year member and co-captain of the Wellesley swim team. In my free time, I like to travel and spend time being active outdoors exploring, hiking, swimming, running with my dog or scuba diving!

I am returning to Stanford after participating in the summer of 2023 as a member of Stanford's Clinical Summer Internship (CSI), where I explored a range of medical specialties. Then, in 2024, I returned as an Assistant Program Manager, where I collaborated with graduate and medical students to help oversee the program. That same year, I interned at a private physical therapy practice, where I gained hands-on clinical experience, communication and clinical

note-taking skills, and utilized my Spanish fluency. These experiences, combined with personal influences have all fueled my passion for medicine.

The COMET Fellowship offers invaluable exposure to many of my interests and I can’t wait to further immerse myself in clinical medicine and learn what it takes to be a great physician!

Marilyn Chow

Hello! My name is Marilyn. I’m from the Bay Area but spent most of childhood growing up in the green forests of Portland, OR. I graduated from UC Davis last spring with a Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology.

My interest in medicine began with my appreciation for human anatomy, after taking a foundational human gross anatomy course during undergrad and spending hours in the lab working with cadavers. However, it was from witnessing my mother’s battle with stage four colon cancer that I developed a determination to provide holistic, empathetic care for patients and their families. I’ve also spent a year working as a Registered Behavior Technician in Applied Behavior Analysis therapy with young children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disorders. From my time spent working in ABA, I’ve developed a patience and a passion for working with children and families in a team-based setting.

Some of my passions outside of medicine include dancing, playing the guitar, ukulele, and piano, visiting new coffee shops and bookstores, and reading. Dance has always been an integral part of my life. I started training in classical ballet at a young age and during my undergraduate career I was the director of the Davis Ballet Company. My newest and most recent hobbies include rock climbing, crocheting, and learning new languages!

I’m thrilled and grateful to be a COMET fellow in the summer cohort of 2025 and I am looking forward to making meaningful contributions in the healthcare field and the Stanford community before applying to physician assistant programs next spring!

Laila Ward 

Hi. My name is Laila Ward, and I am from Pasadena, California. I graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.S. in Human Biology and a minor in Law and Social Justice. I am deeply passionate about advancing health equity and advocating for underrepresented communities, with a particular interest in how legal frameworks can be leveraged to promote justice and accessibility within healthcare systems. 

Throughout college, I volunteered in the Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine Departments at Huntington Hospital, gaining valuable exposure to frontline patient care. Last summer, I interned with the American Cancer Society, where I conducted research on breast-to-brain cancer metastasis. My work focused on visualizing early tumor-neuron microenvironment interactions and observing the epithelial to mesenchymal morphological progression following the co-culture of neurons with E0771, a luminal B cancer subtype. I also participated in the Bridge the Gap Summer Research Program, where I engaged in clinical research within the pediatric orthopedic department at Children’s Hospital in LA, investigating recurrence patterns associated with the clubfoot deformity. 

At USC, I worked in the Sports Nutrition department for USC Athletics, a role that allowed me to merge my interests in sports medicine, health and wellness, and perfecting my smoothie-making skills. In my free time, I enjoy working out, going on runs, and trying new workout classes. I also love acai bowls and matcha. 

I am truly honored to join the COMET Class of 2025-2026! I look forward to deepening my understanding of advanced healthcare terminology while gaining hands-on research exposure and unique clinical experiences shadowing alongside healthcare providers in diverse clinical settings. This program aligns with my aspirations in medicine, allowing me to connect with other inspiring physicians, broaden my knowledge, and contribute to bridging communication barriers in healthcare to make it more inclusive.

Kimberly Luna

Hi, my name is Kimberly Luna (she/her/ella), and I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention with a minor in Health Care Studies at the University of Southern California.
Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the challenges my family faced in accessing quality health care, particularly within underserved and Spanish-speaking communities. These early experiences, combined with my academic background, fueled my passion for medicine and strengthened my commitment to addressing health disparities. I am especially passionate about serving Spanish-speaking populations, where language barriers often create significant obstacles to receiving effective, compassionate care. I hope to one day bridge these gaps as a bilingual physician who can advocate for patients and build trust through shared language and cultural understanding.
During college, I worked in a cardiovascular research lab through USC’s CIRM-funded COMPASS program, where I deepened my appreciation for the biological sciences, research, and health care administration. I also volunteered at a local hospital, gaining valuable exposure to patient care and the daily operations of a clinical setting. These experiences have reinforced my desire to pursue a career where I can blend clinical excellence with community advocacy. Outside of academics and clinical work, I enjoy building puzzles, crocheting, visiting cafes, going for walks, and spending time with family and friends. These activities help me maintain balance and stay grounded.
I look forward to gaining more exposure to the medical field through the COMET Fellowship and am excited to take this next step on my journey to medical school.

Kelly Alejandra Castillo

Hello! My name is Kelly Alejandra Castillo. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, and recently graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor of Arts in General Biology. As a proud first-generation student from a Salvadorian household, my journey into medicine has been deeply personal and purpose-driven.

My passion for medicine truly began during my junior year of college, though I've always known I wanted to work in the medical field. It was during the COVID-19 pandemic, while working as a behavioral interventionist with special needs children, that everything clicked. The love, resilience, and gratitude those children showed reminded me of the power of presence and advocacy. They may not know it, but they inspired my path - they are the reason I am here today. I now aspire to become a Pediatric Surgeon. I want to be a source of hope and stability for children who may feel like they don't have someone in their corner. Whether it's through future conversations, meaningful connections, or life-changing surgeries, I'm committed to being that one person who takes a chance on them, because every child deserves that.

As I write this for the Stanford COMET Fellowship, I'm filled with excitement for the opportunities ahead and the skills I'll gain through this incredible experience!

Con gran orgullo lo hago para mi mamá y mi papá.

Kayla MacLennan

Hi! My name’s Kayla MacLennan (Rubens) and I’m originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I previously studied at the University of Michigan where I graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa in applied mathematics, then stayed for a two-year “victory lap” to complete my Masters of Science in Information in user experience design and information analysis.

I then spent ten years in Silicon Valley as a principal data scientist with a focus on consumer products, establishing best practices around understanding subscription-based services. Along the way I’ve launched at least three major streaming services, accidentally ended up on an HBO documentary, and completed due diligence on some of the larger acquisitions in the entertainment and tech space. I’ve absolutely loved my career in tech but knew I wanted to pivot after spending five years volunteering with Achieve Tahoe (achievetahoe.org), an adaptive sports school catering to students of all ages and manner of both cognitive and physical disabilities. As a member of both the disability and neurodiversity communities myself, I’m additionally motivated to challenge norms that restrict healthcare access to marginalized groups across my newfound home in northern California.

I’m now officially an nontraditional premed student looking to apply to MD programs in 2027. I’m enrolled in the Post-Baccalaureate Health Professions Program at the University of California, Berkeley and I also study biomedical data science at Stanford CGOE. I’ve worked as a certified nurse assistant in long-term (memory) care in rural California for the last six months which has humbled me, helped me to develop bedside manner, and reassured me that I adore working with — and for — my patients.

I am really thrilled and also honored to join the academic community at Stanford! My journey back to the field of medicine has been in no way traditional, but I hope to be able to share my  mathematical expertise and life experience to this problem space!

Julian Ramprashad

Hello! My name is Julian, and I grew up in the Bay Area. In Spring 2025 I will be graduating from Brown University with a B.S. in Biology (Immunology). For fun I enjoy playing flute and piano, reading historical fiction, and hiking the hills near my home.

I’ve wanted to go into medicine from a young age, and I’m especially interested in the constant battle between germs and our immune systems. Much of my time during college was spent doing research on how powerful immune cells called cytotoxic T cells form memory after an infection and then wait in different parts of the body to defend against new infections. During undergrad I also had the privilege of volunteering to connect primary care patients with resources for housing, food, and utilities, through which I learned about the socioeconomic factors that can affect patients’ health and access to medical care. I also enjoyed visiting hospital patients on Sundays to keep them company and to help out with any problems they were having. All of these experiences have made me excited to pursue a career in medicine and research where I can holistically help patients with their health concerns while making discoveries to advance medical knowledge and treatments.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a 2025-2026 COMET fellow. I’m looking forward to supporting the care team and learning from providers and peers to expand my perspective of medicine and patient care.

Jocelyn Leon

Hello! My name is Jocelyn Leon, and I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I am a recent graduate of the University of Southern California (USC), with a degree in Health and Human Sciences and a minor in Public Health, on the pre-medical track. I am passionate about the intersection of science, empathy, and patient care, and I am committed to pursuing a career in medicine to positively impact individual lives and underserved communities.

My journey is deeply rooted in the desire to understand how social determinants of health affect well-being. At USC, I have explored medicine through clinical work, research, and community engagement. I currently intern at Cedars-Sinai’s Emergency Department as a Tender Loving Care intern, where I support geriatric patients by offering comfort and companionship during their ED visits. I also volunteered at Vida Mobile Free Clinic, gaining hands-on clinical skills like suturing and vitals intake, while educating Spanish-speaking patients on how to advocate for their healthcare.

As a Community Health Organizer for the USC Office of Health Promotion Strategy, I have conducted qualitative research and led outreach efforts across campus, collaborating with cross-departmental committees to address student wellness and promote inclusive health policies. Additionally, I led independent research on acculturative stress and mental health in Mexican American adults, which I presented at both USC and national conferences.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and exploring different coffee shops. I am excited to continue learning and connecting through the COMET Fellowship Program!

Emily Bortree

I’m Emily Bortree, from San Diego, CA, and I attended Loyola Marymount University where I received a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Biochemistry. I was involved in biochemical research and studied the function of Aim32 in the mitochondria of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Then I participated in ecological research for my senior thesis project using cell phone mobility data to understand how Los Angeles people utilize ecosystem services from public parks. I volunteered in a service organization called Espérer, which focused on environmental justice and human trafficking awareness. I taught students as a General Biology Lab Teaching Assistant foundational biology lab techniques, statistical analysis, and practical experimental design and execution. I led Tri-Beta, the campus honors society for biological sciences, and was involved in Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit honors society, and Sigma Xi, the national scientific honors society. I volunteered with care teams at UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center in the postpartum, radiology, and labor and delivery departments.

Lastly, I shadowed at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center watching vascular, cardiothoracic, and tumor removal procedures, and observing in their clinics, which confirmed my desire to pursue medicine. Harbor-UCLA was my first experience with medical practice and the doctors inspired me with kind care and detailed surgical techniques. I enjoy going to the gym and beach, reading novels, hiking, playing piano and singing, and snowboarding. I am excited to join the Stanford COMET program 2025-2026. My skills in medical documentation, patient care, and communication will be improved, promoting long-lasting relationships with providers.

Deanna Orta

Hello!

I’m Deanna Orta, and I was born and raised in the Bay Area. I attended the University of San Diego on a pre-medical track where I earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Biology. During my time at USD, I was a member of the women’s club volleyball team where I also served as finance manager. I also participated in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers as Secretary, where I learned how to uplift the Hispanic community at USD and helped further their professional development.

My passion for medicine started at a very young age when I was diagnosed with congenital pulmonary valve stenosis at birth. Going in and out of cardiology offices allowed me the opportunity to discover my deep, personal desire to help others who, like me, have faced the challenges of living with a heart condition. At 15 I knew I wanted to comit to turning my experiences into purpose with the goal of guiding others through their own health journeys. While at USD I volunteered at a local elementary school with a STEM-focused curriculum, to help students explore science through hands-on projects and personal experiences, hoping to ignite their curiosity for the field at a young age, like I was.

I am beyond excited and grateful to be a Stanford COMET fellow of 2025-26. I believe that my involvement in the program will greatly assist me in furthering my medical career goals. I am ecstatic to work alongside both my medical scribe peers and the medical professionals I will come into contact with. Receiving mentoring from them is an opportunity I am ready to make the most of.

Lauren Fitzsimmons

Hello! My name is Lauren Fitzsimmons, and I am from Milwaukee, WI! I attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where I studied biomedical engineering. I am an avid runner, so my college years were filled with many runs and races with the Wisconsin Track Club, which I had the privilege of serving as president for one year. I also love the outdoors-- hiking, biking, swimming-- you name it, if it's outside, I’m there!

My pursuit of medicine began as a passion for biomedical innovation. Through participating in biomechanics research on Division 1 athletes at UW, I saw the importance of evidence-based technology on patient outcomes. Then, while working alongside surgeons and engineers, I helped develop a novel orthopedic instrument, which opened my eyes to the possibilities of cross-disciplinary medical innovation. These experiences solidified my commitment to a career where I can blend technology and clinical skills to ensure the highest quality of patient care.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in the COMET program this year. I cannot think of a better way to spend my gap year than by surrounding myself with the best physicians in the world! As a COMET fellow, I’m excited to gain immersive clinical experience that will deepen my understanding of patient care and lay a strong foundation for a career in medicine.

Oriel Zagazeta

My name is Oriel Zagazeta and I’m from Morgan Hill, California. I graduated from Santa Clara University with a B.S. in Biology and a Minor in Biotechnology. In my free time I enjoy playing guitar, being outside in nature, and doing karate with my younger brother.

During my undergraduate career I really enjoyed conducting Molecular Biology research in the Islas Lab at SCU, where I studied Coronavirus proteins. My project involved the cloning, expression, and purification of the SARS-CoV-2 Replication/Transcription Complex through the use of E. coli vectors. This project aimed to test an anti-COVID drug which targets a central protein in this complex on a drug-protein interaction level and observe the effects of genetic mutations on the drug’s efficacy. During my junior year I was part of the Healthcare Ethics Internship through SCU’s Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, where I developed strong ethical frameworks to discuss relevant bioethics topics. I also really enjoyed being a Teaching Assistant for multiple laboratory classes within the biology department such as Molecular Biology and Anatomy. I’m very grateful for the opportunity I had to help others on their educational journeys.

I am very excited to join the COMET Fellowship this year and I am looking forward to gaining valuable experience that I can apply to my future career in medicine.

Briana Valencia

My name is Briana Valencia. I’m from Stockton, California and I attended UC Merced when I earned my B.S in Molecular and Cell Biology. During my undergraduate degree, I volunteered to partake in Vernal Pool research where I helped collect data out in the fields behind the university.

From a young age, I knew that medicine was my passion. Growing up as the first-born in a Spanish-speaking household, I quickly learned how to advocate for both myself and my mother. The only time I wasn’t translating was during my office visits. I was fortunate to have a Spanish-speaking pediatrician who took the time to explain my health to my mother and thoughtfully answered all her questions. That early experience with healthcare taught me the comfort and sense of understanding that diversity in medicine can provide. I have continued to

keep that spark alive as I work now as a Certified Medical Assistant for a federal fund clinic that has a large Spanish-speaking patient population. I work towards my goal of being a physician in order to proudly represent the Latinx community and help underrepresented individuals through care and education.

Outside of my aspiring career, I enjoy traveling to different countries, reading books from all kinds of genres (literary fiction, fantasy, science fiction, romance, memoirs, essays, self-help), hiking with my dog, going to concerts, and spending time with my family and friends.

I am very honored to be a part of the COMET class of 2025-2026. I am excited to connect with like-minded individuals that are also building their bright pathway to medical school and with physicians that value patient-care and education. Everything I learn in this program will stay with me as I continue onto my path in medicine and I hope to one day pass on all that I will learn.

Anika Sharma

My name is Anika Sharma, and I hold a degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from UC Davis with a minor in Psychology. My academic and clinical work has centered on the neurobiological basis of psychotic disorders, with a focus on distinguishing affective and

non-affective disorders through clinical and translational research. I’m particularly interested in how these findings can improve patient-centered care, especially in early intervention settings.

Additionally, my experiences in various clinical and research roles have shaped a strong interest in the intersection of medical humanities and healthcare accessibility. I’ve observed how systemic barriers—especially those affecting marginalized populations—can influence diagnostic outcomes in behavioral and psychotic disorders. These insights continue to drive my commitment to advancing equitable, evidence-based care. Looking ahead, I hope to further develop my clinical research skills under the guidance of leading professionals in my intended field, while deepening my understanding of the social and structural factors that shape patient experiences.

Beyond my academic pursuits, I really enjoy watching and analyzing film, discovering new music, and hiking with my Nikon camera. I’ve loved exploring places like Oregon and Lake Tahoe, but nothing compares to the rolling hills of Marin County. I believe my appreciation comes from my hometown in Canada, where I spent much of my time skiing down the Rocky Mountains. Since moving to California, I’ve also gained a scuba diving license and have been diving nearby in Monterey and further away such as Mexico and Thailand.

Danielle Sanchez

Hello! My name is Danielle, and I was born and raised in Burbank, CA. I recently graduated from UC Davis with a B.S. in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, a B.A. in Communications, and a minor in Public Health. Outside academics, I enjoy reading, baking, and making memories with friends and family.

My passion for medicine began early, inspired by my parents who immigrated to the U.S. and pursued careers in healthcare. Growing up, I was constantly inspired by their hard work and fulfillment in serving others—fueling my passion to do the same.

This commitment only grew through my clinical and research experiences. At UC Davis, I interned in the Interventional Radiology Department, volunteered at a maternal psychiatric clinic, and spent a summer as a remote island medicine intern in the Philippines. Whether conducting case management calls, shadowing surgeries, or setting up COVID-19 vaccination sites, these experiences reinforced my commitment to supporting patients in vulnerable moments. I also developed a deep appreciation for the intersection of research and clinical practice as a summer intern in Stanford’s P2RIME Lab, studying genetic mechanisms behind epileptogenesis in children. Witnessing collaboration across specialties to advance patient care was truly inspiring, and I am thrilled to return to Stanford as a 2025–2026 COMET Fellow.

I am eager to bring my passion for patient care, commitment to learning, and diverse experiences to the program. Thank you to the COMET Fellowship for this incredible opportunity—I look forward to making lasting connections and gaining new experiences!

Alex Rayo

Hello! My name is Alex Rayo, and I was born and raised in the beautiful Bay Area. I recently graduated from UCLA with a degree in Physiological Science and Global Health. Alongside my studies, I enjoyed participating in cultural clubs and working as a counselor for other undergraduates.

During my undergraduate career, my goal was to gain exposure to a variety of clinical settings. I spent much of my time volunteering at a street medicine clinic, serving unhoused individuals and connecting them to various social services. I also had the privilege of conducting a research project at the UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center, where I shadowed physicians in many different departments across the hospital.

My ultimate goal is to become a Physician Assistant in the future. I am fascinated by the prospect of delivering compassionate care to a wide range of communities, particularly those that are traditionally underserved. As a first generation student, I resonate greatly with their experiences and hope to work towards the betterment of all populations.

I am incredibly excited to join the COMET Fellowship this year. I look forward to learning from physicians, other medical staff, and other fellows as I embark on my healthcare journey!