Author Archives: Cory Van Dyke

The MD program advanced its mission through a year defined by academic accomplishment and community celebration. Each achievement demonstrates the power of collaboration and innovation within the UNC School of Medicine. This year in review highlights how these efforts continue to shape the future of medicine.

The Office of Academic Excellence hosted its second annual Step 1 Workshop to prepare second-year medical students before entering dedicated study period. The event featured presentations by third- and fourth-year medical students who have successfully navigated dedicated and the Step 1 exam.

Nzia Hall (Class of 2026) traveled to Zambia for a four-week rotation and global health experience in neurology alongside Dr. Deanna Saylor. The trip gave Hall renewed confidence as a provider ahead of applying for residency and inspired personal growth.

One of UNC School of Medicine’s most unique features is its Scholarly Concentration Programs (SCP). Four medical students in the Class of 2026 shared their experiences in a scholarly concentration and all the benefits it has provided.

UNC School of Medicine launched a first-of-its-kind, innovative Step 1 review week for its second-year medical students. “Preparing for the USMLE Step 1 exam is one of the greatest challenges our students face on their journey to becoming physicians, and we wanted to reimagine how schools can support students through...

Dr. Alice Chuang, the associate dean for student affairs in the UNC School of Medicine, answered questions about the upcoming White Coat Ceremony, its significance and our community's celebration of this next step in the medical students' journey toward becoming a physician.

What happens when a medical student returns to the hospital that once saved his life? A summer global health rotation brought Jesus Viña Moreno (Class of 2028) back to his childhood hospital in the Dominican Republic, where he gained clinical skills and renewed confidence.

Travis Williams '20 (MD) makes his mark in Western North Carolina, caring for the community at Chatuge Family Practice in Hayesville. "We feel connected to the people and the land," Williams said. "We're investing in the future here."

Danielle Kapustin, class of 2027, will use the grant for her project “Transforming Embryology Education: Innovative Approaches to Interactive Medical Instruction” with the goal of better preparing students for board exams, clinical rotations, and excellent patient care in the area of embryology.

Adie Ramirez partnered with Fundación Para la Salud Integral de Los Guatemaltecos (FunSalud) to address chronic malnutrition in Guatemala. The team's research has led to the improvement of children's health there.