Success Stories
Edgar Gonzalez
“The PHAP program was a critical component of my preparation for medical school, not only helping me meet rigorous academic requirements but also equipping me with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a medical environment. The challenging coursework and collaborative nature of PHAP gave me a solid foundation in both academic rigor and teamwork, which has translated seamlessly into my medical school experience. As a result, I now feel more confident in my abilities and better prepared for the demands of medical training!”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA,
Class of 2028
Laura Trenev
“...PHAP played a huge role in helping me achieve my goal of getting into Physician Assistant school. The small class sizes, collaborative environment, and supportive professors made a tremendous difference. The resources afforded to me during my time at PHAP were extremely valuable, such as an open door policy, and exposure to other students who were in the same position as me. PHAP’s rigorous coursework pushed me to think critically about science and healthcare, and gave me an opportunity to demonstrate my academic potential. It was truly a second chance—one that helped me grow into a stronger, more confident student. Most importantly, PHAP prepared me exceptionally well for the rigorous coursework of PA school, giving me the critical thinking skills necessary for success. I am incredibly grateful to PHAP for believing in me and helping me reach my goals. I would enroll in PHAP 1000 times over.”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
Physician Assistant Program, Ursuline College,
Class of 2025
Jessica Marie Amezcua
“PHAP gave me a second chance to pursue my dream of becoming a physician. After struggling academically in college, I was able to refocus, develop stronger study habits, and build better relationships with peers and professors in PHAP who greatly supported me in my journey.”
PHAP 2020 - 2023
University of California, Riverside School of Medicine,
Class of 2028
Anthony Liu
“PHAP provided me with a flexible and engaging learning environment where I could still take classes while working/volunteering. PHAP's close-knit culture also allowed me to really get to know my professors, advisors and peers which helped me stay focused on the material and make lasting friendships along the way. PHAP will always have a special place in my heart.”
PHAP 2019 - 2021
Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine,
Class of 2027
Maite Veronica Garcia
“The PHAP program transformed my approach to learning and revealed the importance of tailoring study strategies across different subjects. PHAP provided a supportive environment where I overcame my fear of asking questions, actively engaging in office hours and lectures, and forming study groups.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
The University of California Davis School of Medicine,
Class of 2027
Angelina Ariana Aviles
“As an academic enhancer, PHAP provided me with opportunities to become a competitive applicant and helped me gain confidence in my academic capabilities. PHAP fostered such a collaborative community, and the faculty were incredibly supportive of my journey and provided invaluable insight and mentorship.”
PHAP 2022 - 2023
The University of California Davis School of Medicine,
Class of 2028
Michelle Ng
“I cannot emphasize how much I appreciate PHAP’s advisors and professors—they have supported me throughout the process of applying both professionally and personally. Beyond having the personalized attention to my application, PHAP gave me the space to grow and re-instilled confidence in pursuing my goals.”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University,
Class of 2028
Amanda Aquilio
“After graduating college with a lower GPA, PHAP gave me the tools to be a successful student. Most importantly, it restored my belief in my capabilities. I wouldn’t have gotten into several dental schools without the program’s guidance and advice.”
PHAP 2022 - 2023
Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, University of the Pacific,
Class of 2027
Agata Kelman
“I was not a pre-med major in college, and came across PHAP on my journey of applying to med school. Not only was I given an opportunity to grow academically, PHAP provided me with the tools to grow as a leader and allowed me to volunteer with the community. Being a PHAPer allowed me to connect with my professors in a small class setting and build my confidence to pursue my dream, all the while surrounded with like-minded individuals! I felt supported and seen during my time there.”
PHAP 2021 - 2023
Western University College of Osteopathic Medicine, and MBA candidate at Claremont Graduate University,
Class of 2028
Christopher Hanze
“I started post-baccalaureate classes at CSUEB following an unsuccessful application cycle. PHAP seminars opened my eyes to resources and critical information that helped me better organize my medical school applications. Additionally, I bolstered my academic resume by maintaining a high Post-baccalaureate GPA, and I regularly met with advisors and staff mentors that gave me excellent feedback on my application. I thank the program for helping me mature as an applicant and reinforce my commitment to the field of medicine.”
PHAP 2022 - 2023
University of Arizona College of Medicine- Tucson,
Class of 2028
Lisa Collins
“PHAP gave me the chance I needed to fulfill my dreams of attending medical school. PHAP's excellent faculty thoroughly prepared me for the rigors of medical school and I use the knowledge and study skills I gained everyday.”
PHAP 2019 - 2022
Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine,
Class of 2028
Anthony Cajigal
“PHAP was an incredible experience for which I will always be grateful. The connections I made, from faculty to fellow students, made the journey enjoyable. The science courses were excellent preparation for the DAT and for dental school.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
Roseman University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine,
Class of 2027
Lauren Paguirigan
“PHAP provided the opportunity for me to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to social justice and community service. Not only was I accepted into 4 of the 6 physical therapy schools I applied to, but I selected my #1 school of choice!”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
Columbia University, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program,
Class of 2025
Jesse Maynard
“Small class sizes made for a great interactive learning environment. Professors were excellent, respectful and made themselves available outside of class whenever needed. The intensive science-only curriculum was a great intro to how Med-School curriculums are formatted.”
PHAP 2018 - 2019
Howard University College Of Medicine,
Class of 2028
Kathryn Carbajal-Everts
“PHAP gave me the opportunity to prove that I am capable of succeeding in upper division science courses. I learned how to improve my study techniques while in this program and have successfully brought those techniques to medical school. Not only am I handling the material in medical school, but I thrive in classes like Biochemistry where PHAP ensured I have a deep understanding of the material. I cannot say thanks to PHAP enough for providing students with great support from professors and tutors. Would not be where I am today without the help of PHAP!”
PHAP 2017 - 2018
Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine-NY,
Class of 2028
Reina Karaki
“I am honored to have been part of the PHAP program. This experience provided me with numerous opportunities, from engaging in outreach events and student organizations to being part of a supportive academic environment. I made full use of the extensive resources available to enhance my dental school application. In addition to developing strong study habits, PHAP offered invaluable support through mock interviews and letters of recommendation, which I believe played a crucial role in my acceptance into dental school. Overall, this program strengthened every aspect of my application and provided all the support I needed to succeed.”
PHAP 2022 - 2023
California Northstate University College of Dental Medicine,
Class of 2028
Bogdan D. Popa
“As an academic enhancer, PHAP allowed me to hone my study skills, collaborate with peers, and succeed in a rigorous academic environment. With what I learned from PHAP, I know that I am well prepared for the challenges of medical school!”
PHAP 2021 - 2022
Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University,
Class of 2028
John Layton
PHAP 2021 - 2022
Stanford University School of Medicine,
Class of 2028
Phat Duong
“I became a better student during my time in PHAP and developed the study habits and skills needed to succeed in medical school. I left PHAP with more confidence and feeling like I could take on anything medical school has to offer.”
PHAP 2022 - 2023
New York Institute of Technology School of Osteopathic Medicine-Arkansas
(NYITCOM-Arkansas)
Class of 2027
Dylan Wong
“Attending PHAP allowed myself to further grow as a student while being surrounded and motivated by other students who were equally ambitious and dedicated to their pursuits in healthcare. With professors who were mindful of our goals to become physicians, PAs, dentists, and other healthcare professionals, we were encouraged and challenged to apply core concepts of our classes to our interests and desired fields.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine,
Class of 2027
Hilda N. Espinoza
“The advisors and professors at PHAP are genuinely invested in supporting students in their academics and professional applications. PHAP provides students with the collaborative environment needed to succeed as future health professionals and I am so grateful to have been part of the community.”
PHAP 2021 - 2022
Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University,
Class of 2027
Jared Peter C Sarinas
“As an academic enhancer student, PHAP helped me take upper-division science courses which not only improved my GPA but allowed me to study effectively for the MCAT and also served as the basis for my success in rigorous medical school courses.”
PHAP 2019 2020
Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine,
Class of 2027
Alexander Dao
"PHAP gave me the opportunity to finish my prerequisites and also prove I was academically prepared for medical school. I also received excellent counseling and beneficial opportunities that strengthened my resume. PHAP was invaluable in helping me achieve my goal of getting into medical school.”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
Michigan State University College of Human Medicine,
Class of 2027
Graschelle Hipolito
“PHAP equipped me with tools to refine my approach to academics and craft my own objectives for improvement. My PHAP advisors, professors, and peers showed me oceans of support, empowerment, and a sense of self-confidence that was not only uniquely defining, but also undoubtedly pivotal in my journey into medicine.”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine,
Class of 2027
Hadiss Jamal
“The PHAP program was one of the greatest experiences in my life. I came into the program after having completed my Bachelors Degree at UC Berkeley and did not have a competitive GPA to apply to medical school. The professors and faculty at PHAP gave me confidence that there was still hope to make my dream come true.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine,
Class of 2027
Diana Duque
“PHAP gave me a second chance to prove my academic caliber to both the medical schools I applied to, and to myself. The unwavering support I received from my PHAP advisors, professors, and faculty was vital in helping me achieve my dreams.”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
Wayne State University School of Medicine,
Class of 2027
Isaac Avila-Vargas
“PHAP represented an incredible opportunity to not give up on my dream of becoming a physician. As a first generation college student from an underserved/underrepresented community, it was often challenging to envision myself in a position to become a medical professional. After much consideration, applying to and being accepted into PHAP was a commitment to actualizing my vision. As a non-science major, PHAP allowed me to finish my Pre-Med prerequisites and enhanced my learning of how to study for science specific courses. Aside from practicing new study strategies, I was able to surround myself with a very supportive community of students and staff who shared my interest in the medical professions. Serving as the PHAP Student Association Vice President also allowed me to engage with students on a larger scale and practice the leadership and teamwork skills that I will use during my lifelong career as a physician.”
PHAP 2019-2021
University of California, San Francisco - School of Medicine,
Class of 2027
Fatimatou Saka
"Rigorous PHAP classes expanded my medical knowledge and refined my study habits. I am thankful for the invaluable guidance provided by PHAP professors/advisors, ensuring I stay on course to achieve my goal of entering medical school.”
PHAP 2020-2021
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, College of Medicine,
Class of 2027
Feng Ming Li
“The PHAP program helped me achieve my dream of getting into medical school by becoming more academically competent. As a non-traditional medical student, being surrounded by like-minded individuals and having a supportive faculty made the medical school application process less daunting.”
PHAP 2019-2020
Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine,
Class of 2026
Miguel Barranco-Origel
“PHAP exceeded all my expectations! Dr. Wambuguh and the rest of the faculty genuinely care about their students, and they understand this is students' second chance to prove themselves. I am truly grateful for PHAP and cannot thank them enough for helping me pursue my dream of medical school.”
PHAP 2020-2021
The University of California Davis School of Medicine,
Class of 2026
John Petrucci
“PHAP fosters a learning environment rooted in collaboration, critical thinking, and accountability. Being immersed in this culture pushes you to excel inside and out of the classroom; to become a strong academic candidate and well-rounded applicant for medical school. I am confident in saying that I would not be where I am today without PHAP.”
PHAP 2019-2020
Western University College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest,
Class of 2026
Joshua Lee
“The PHAP program helped me transition to a post-baccalaureate path, allowing me to focus on my premed career. Their expertise on students from nontraditional backgrounds gave me both the community and resources I needed to succeed.”
PHAP 2018-2019
Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University,
Class of 2026
Samer Michmali
“This unique program has so much to offer if you are willing to explore it all. It has helped me learn better study habits, be more efficient with time management, and network with many professionals that have been a huge part of my success. I am thankful for the wonderful staff and would highly recommend PHAP to anyone that is thinking of applying to a professional program. Although nothing can fully prepare you for what you'll experience in a professional program, the knowledge and relationships you will acquire from PHAP will help you in every step of the process.”
PHAP 2017 - 2018
Arthur A. Dugoni- School of Dentistry, University of Pacific,
Class of 2026
Michelle Nguyen
“I owe much of my success to matriculating into dental school to PHAP. I cannot express how immensely grateful I am for the vast amount of opportunities and the generous guidance I received from professors and peers that helped me to where I am today.”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
The University of California
San Francisco School of Dentistry
Class of 2026
Kimberly Nguyen
"I can’t thank PHAP enough for helping me achieve my goal of getting into dental school. The rigorous classwork allowed me to improve my study habits and mentally prepared me for school. Additionally, the mentorship and guidance I receive from my advisors throughout this challenging process was amazing."
PHAP 2019 -2020
Western University College of Dental Medicine,
Class of 2026
Analuisa DeAlba
“PHAP without a doubt helped me improve my GPA and MCAT. PHAP is a community of amazing faculty and students who encourage each other to strive for their goals. I will always remember PHAP as the place in which my dreams came into fruition!”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
Touro University Nevada
College of Osteopathic Medicine
Class of 2026
Nelson Wong
“PHAP provided me with a second chance at pursuing my dream profession. I was able to strength myself as an applicant and grow as an individual during my time in PHAP. I can gratefully say it has better prepared me for dental school.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
University of Washington
School of Dentistry
Class of 2026
Gerin Albeda
“PHAP was the turning point in my academic career. I continued to evolve as a student, preparing me for the future. The support I received from the faculty allowed me to see my potential and ultimately help me get into dental school.”
PHAP 2017 - 2019
Western University of Health Sciences
College of Dental Medicine
Class of 2026
Luciano Jimenez
“I am deeply fond and indebted to the PHAP program. Not only did it help me to get into dental school but also prepared me well for the future curriculum. I loved the collaborative environment, the teachers, my classmates, and the mentors I found there. All of them helped me realize my dream. PHAP is a truly special place.”
PHAP 2020 - 2021
Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC
Class of 2026
Taylor Hollis
“.. As a career changer in PHAP, I was given the opportunity to receive an in-depth understanding of the foundational sciences that contributed to my success in the program as well as the MCAT, thus making me a top medical school applicant.”
PHAP 2017 - 2019
University of Alabama
Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine
Class of 2026
Juan Jimenez
“PHAP gave me the tools to find the confidence and belief needed to apply for and successfully enter medical school. I’m grateful for the small class size, the dedicated professors, and the supportive student environment for helping me reach my goal!”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Class of 2026
Angela Ling
“PHAP is such an excellent program full of supportive staff and collaborative peers. Through PHAP, I was able to build my own confidence and ensure that I would be able to handle the rigorous course load of medical school. I was also able to interact with professors, who always made sure to keep their doors open and welcoming to students, and build solid relationships with them.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
Des Moines University
College of Osteopathic Medicine
Class of 2026
Aleeza Garcia
“Challenged by so much adversity as a first-generation student and graduating undergrad with sub-par metrics, PHAP saw my potential to be academically successful. With the faculty so approachable and willing to help, I was able to demonstrate straight A’s throughout the program, not only bolstering my GPA for applications but also reassuring my confidence and ability to do well under a rigorous program. As a 1st year medical student, I attribute my smooth academic transition largely through the rigor of PHAP courses.
PHAP 2019 - 2021
Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Class of 2026
Jean-Paul Orogo
“PHAP helped me improve my academic resume; allowed me to balance two clinical-oriented jobs, volunteering, and extracurricular activities; and guided me through the rigorous application process. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the lasting connections and friendships I’ve made in this program!!”
PHAP 2018 - 2019
California Health Sciences University,
College of Osteopathic Medicine
Class of 2026
Reeva Gestre
“..PHAP advisors guided me throughout my time in the program—on what classes to take, when to take the DAT, helping me prepare my personal statement, and much more. Not only did PHAP provide me with a science background that I still utilize in my current didactic courses, I also had the opportunity to join numerous clubs and take on leadership positions that challenged me outside of academia. I am so thankful for all the faculty, advisors, and friends that have helped me on this journey! Without PHAP, I would not be where I am today.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
UCSF School of Dentistry
Class of 2025
Elaine Luu
"During my time at PHAP, I received an overwhelming amount of support from like-minded peers and faculty. The faculty members always made themselves available to guide me through my questions and mentored me through my academic and personal development. Here, I also made life-long friends who share the same vision in our endeavors and we continue to help each other improve today.”
PHAP 2020-2021
UCSF School of Dentistry,
Class of 2025
Marisa Estipona
“In addition to providing support throughout my education and the dental school application process, PHAP rekindled the confidence I needed to achieve my dream of becoming a dentist. The faculty, professors, and school community truly cares for their students and guides them to be the best they can be. My time in PHAP was vital towards my growth as a pre-health student and future health professional and I am proud to be a product of this amazing program.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
College of Dental Medicine
Roseman University of Health Sciences
Class of 2025
Anosh Kermani
“I needed someone to recognize that I was more than a score. These professors generously offered their time to know me on a personal level. Their immense support, guidance, and approbation gave me the confidence to relentlessly pursue my goals.”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Class of 2025
Giselle Castorena Perez
“I always knew I wanted a career in medicine, but as a first-generation student, navigating academics and the application process was challenging. Through PHAP I found the community and the guidance that prepared me for this next chapter of my career.”
PHAP 2018 - 2020
Keck School of Medicine of USC
Class of 2025
Derek Kim
“After graduating with a subpar GPA, I wasn’t sure if I could still pursue a career in healthcare. However, at PHAP I learned the skills to become a successful student and, more importantly, I gained the confidence to pursue my dreams of becoming a PA!”
PHAP 2019 - 2021
Physician Assistant Practice (MS)
Rosalind Franklin University
Class of 2024
Fareen Baloch
“PHAP gave me a second chance to prove myself to dental schools. After completing 5 semesters with a 4.0, I refined my study habits and grew confident in myself and my academic abilities. PHAP wasn't just a program-- it was a family and I couldn't have gotten into dental school without them!”
PHAP 2019 - 2020
The University of the Pacific
Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Class of 2024
Irina Adao
“PHAP indeed helps with the tangible things like GPA and apps, but what I love most is its ability to make students believe that their dreams are still attainable - and that’s largely achieved through their faculty, staff, & students. PHAP taught me to believe again in my capacity as a student, leader, & future physician.”