Gateways Program

How did Gateways prepare you for your future?

In addition to providing me with the confidence of knowing I can be successful in the rigorous biomedical sciences curriculum delivered in medical school, Gateways also broadened my perspective and sent me on a new path.

After taking Patient Care and Complex Systems, I realized that medicine and the law are synergistic disciplines that, when paired intentionally, can create lasting change for individuals and patient populations. It was then that I decided to go to law school before attending medical school. Professor Tobin-Tyler, and other professors at Gateways, helped me with every part of the law school application process, not because that is what they signed on for when accepting me, but because that is who they are.

This program helped me develop my critical thinking and interpersonal skills and also gave me meaningful research and clinical experiences that I have touted in myriad professional interviews for both medical school and law school. Furthermore, the Gateways faculty and staff provided me with the support I needed to succeed in the program and achieve my goals even years after I graduated.

What advice do you have for current/future Gateways Master of Medical Sciences students?

Be open-minded, focus on one thing at a time, and use the resources at your disposal.

This program is as much about preparing students for successful medical school applications as it is for professional development generally, so be open and flexible; your goals might evolve. Focus on your courses. It is easy to get overwhelmed by what’s to come. Take it one step at a time. You need to be successful in your classes before you think about outside research, extracurriculars, MCAT prep, etc. Finally, lean on those around you for support. The Gateways faculty and staff do what they do because they truly enjoy helping students achieve their dreams. Ask them for advice, talk to them, and use them. They are rooting for your success.

Any other comments?

Enjoy yourself to the extent that is possible. The ten months will fly by. Explore the city, engage meaningfully with your cohort, and try new things: you never know where you might end up.