Ashley Roes, Current MD Candidate
BU Major & Graduation Date:
Neurobiology, 2022
Current School and Year:
M1 at UMass Chan Medical School
Preferred Pronouns:
she/her/her’s
Hometown:
Long Island, NY
What school are you attending and what you are studying? Why did you choose to apply to this school? What do you think makes your school unique?
I am attending UMass Chan Medical School for my medical degree. I chose to apply to this school given its strong focus on outreach to the Worcester and greater Massachusetts community, as well as its emphasis on research to advance care for all. UMass Chan stands out among other programs for its strong sense of community and student support! Faculty and administration want their students to succeed not only academically, but also personally.
Is there a specialization and/or specific population you are interested in? Why? How did you get into it and/or learn more about it?
I am particularly interested in serving underserved populations, as I am passionate about healthcare advocacy and bridging the gap of care for those who are uninsured or underinsured. At this time, I am very interested in OBGYN and pediatric surgery, given both specialties’ opportunities for procedural work and longitudinal relationships with patients.
What are one or two of your favorite experiences/activities and why?
I really enjoyed volunteering with “Hear Your Song” during undergrad and my gap years. Hear Your Song is a non-profit organization that seeks to empower children and teens with complex health needs and serious illness through collaborative songwriting. Writing songs with the participants in the program allowed me to combine my passions for music and medicine!
Did you take a gap years?
I took 2 gap years and spent my time as a medical assistant in both OBGYN and Dermatology. Taking these 2 years was the best decision, as it helped reaffirm my decision to go into medicine. Not only did I learn a great deal of clinical skills, but I also learned how to interact with patients in a culturally competent and trauma-informed way.
What was your favorite BU course and why?
My favorite BU course was Neurobiology of Disease taught by Dr. Pastorino. During this course, we learned so much about the pathologies of various neurodegenerative disorders, how they impact patients and their families, and all the research that has gone into creating therapies to treat these devastating illnesses. Dr. Pastorino is an incredible professor and mentor who is so passionate about the work she does!
Were you involved in any clubs/groups at BU?
I was heavily involved in BU: On Broadway during my time at BU. This student group gave me the opportunity to express myself creatively through choreography and participation in the shows each semester. I was honored to have choreographed our production of “Chicago,” and my favorite role that I played was “Bebe” in “A Chorus Line.”
Have you always known you wanted to be a doctor? What/who has been your biggest inspiration?
Since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a doctor. I have always loved science and helping others. As I matured and continued to take classes/seek out opportunities in the field, my love for medicine became even more apparent and transformed into a strong passion to help underserved populations. My mom has always been my biggest inspiration and biggest supporter. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today!
What resources at BU did you find most helpful or want to spotlight that others might not know about?
I really loved being a tutor for the ERC and seeking help from fellow tutors for my own academic struggles! Learning from and teaching your peers is such an amazing way to learn and form community.
What are your hobbies/What do you like to do for fun outside of the classroom?
I really enjoy singing, dancing, reading, and running!
Are there any tips/advice you would like to share with current pre-health students?
To current pre-health students: Don’t give up on your dream when things get tough, and really search for your “Why medicine!” Medical school is incredibly rewarding, but also incredibly challenging. Stay determined and true to yourself!