Connect with a Current Undergrad

Hi there! I'm Alvina Li, a sophomore diving into the world of public health here at UB. This year, I’m going to apply to the Occupational Therapy program here at UB. Beyond my love for OT, I'm deeply passionate about public health, especially where it intersects with health equity and public policy. As a first-generation college student from an immigrant family, I've experienced firsthand the challenges of advocating for oneself and others. In my downtime, you'll find me hitting the gym, playing badminton, singing and hanging out with friends. Despite being relatively new to the UB community, I already feel deeply connected to the school and its people. UB's focus on research has allowed me to explore my interests, like my recent stint in Dr. Miles's Environment Justice Team, where I honed my research skills and gained confidence. Now, I'm thrilled to serve as your public health ambassador this year. Whether you need advice, support, or just someone to chat with, I'm here for you. Can't wait to bump into you on campus and have a chat soon!

Hi! I'm Nathalie, and I'm currently a senior in the Honors College studying public health. I decided to major in public health back in 2021 on a whim, and grew to love the field and everything it entails. So far I've learned so much about what health looks like in different communities and the factors that contribute, especially appreciating the strengths in each of those communities! I plan on applying to the 3+2 MPH program by the end of the school year in hopes of being able to expand my knowledge and passion for the field. I've grown to have a great interest in harm reduction and the importance it plays in community health and have planned to take classes in the fall about the topic.

Outside of academics, I love to spend time with friends and my cat and explore new places in Buffalo since I'm from New York City. I'm here as a resource and to help with any questions or concerns you may have about the school of public health, UB, or life in general!

Hi, I'm Fatima! I am a senior in the honors college majoring in public health with minors in biological sciences and English. I'm incredibly passionate about public health, with specific interests in women's health, sexual and domestic violence prevention, reproductive justice, and storytelling. My plan is to pursue an MD/MPH and build a career that combines both medicine and public health. Outside of schoolwork, I am a research assistant at the Maternal and Child Health Lab, researching the effects of pulse consumption on pregnancy and child outcomes. In addition, I am the vice president of Islamic Relief Buffalo, vice president of the Medicine through Literature Book Club, and editor-in-chief of Her Campus Buffalo. I also volunteer my time at Justice for Migrant Families through the phone line, and at the YWCA of Niagara Frontier as a volunteer advocate.

If you ever have any questions regarding resources and opportunities in relation to the Public Health program at UB, please let me know, as I'd be happy to help!

Hello! My name is Matthew, and I am currently a junior in the Exercise Science program at UB with a pre-health professions concentration. After graduation I plan to pursue an MD or DO, with my current medicinal interests lying in orthopedics and anesthesia.

I originally entered the program under the pre-physical therapy track, but after my first year—and gaining a deeper understanding of how versatile an exercise science degree can be—I shifted to the pre-health track to align better with my long-term goals.

I strongly believe that every student should be aware of the opportunities available for their personal and professional growth, and I am very passionate about helping others explore their paths. That can involve career planning, academic development, or finding meaningful experiences; whatever it is, I am always happy to share what I’ve learned and provide insight with topics that I can. Please shoot me an email or a message on Linkedin if you have anything you would like to talk about, I would love to help!

Hi, my name is Caleigh and I’m from Buffalo, N.Y.! I am currently a senior majoring in exercise science with a pre-health concentration and a nutrition minor! I transferred to UB as a biology major during the spring semester of my freshman year. After hearing about all of the different courses and opportunities the exercise science department had to offer, I changed my major, and I could not be happier that I did. My passion for health and fitness made the switch very easy! The courses offered by the exercise science department align very well with my goals, are always so interesting and taught by very passionate professors. I now serve as a teaching assistant for ES 207 Human Form and Function 1, which has given me an even greater appreciation for the program and its supportive faculty. After I graduate, my plan is to attend medical school and specialize in orthopedic surgery. I’ve wanted to be a physician ever since I was a little girl. I grew up going into the hospital with my mom, who is an NP and the unit manager of the Burn Intensive Care Unit at ECMC. 

Alongside my academics, I am an undergraduate research assistant for Dr. Panayotis Thanos at the Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, the treasurer for Alpha Epsilon Delta, a pre-health honors society, and a big sister for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie, Niagara, and the Southern Tier. I enjoy going to the gym and spending time with my family, friends and cats! I would love to help you navigate through your journey at UB, so please reach out if you have any questions, are looking for advice, or just want to chat about the department and its courses!

Hi, I'm Jaime! I am currently a junior from Rochester, N.Y., in the Exercise Science program with a concentration in pre-health, and am also a student of the Honors College. Following my time at UB, I have a goal of attending physician assistant school to become a surgical PA. I initially enrolled into UB with a concentration in pre-physical therapy, however, I was intrigued with how broad the specialties are within the physician assistant field, which ultimately guided my decision to make the switch. As of now, I am most interested in specializing in orthopedic surgery for my potential future career as a PA. I have always had a fascination with the human body and am passionate about building positive relationships and strong connections with future patients and their families in order to benefit their overall health and wellbeing. 

I had the opportunity this past summer to spend a few weeks in Costa Rica to study public health. During that time, I toured and volunteered in public and private hospitals/clinics to compare and contrast the public health system in Costa Rica to the U.S. Gaining perspective on health care from another country was an incredibly impactful experience. 

Outside of academics, I am a member of Alpha Gamma Delta and enjoy spending time with family and friends, and prioritizing staying active! 

Hi! My name is Rachel, and I'm entering my final year in the Exercise Science program, with a concentration in pre-physical therapy. I am from Elmira, N.Y.  I started my college journey at Corning Community College; there I was able to stay close to home and take my prerequisites while also saving some money. After earning my associate's degree I transferred to UB! I started at UB as a pharmacy major; however, I didn’t exactly feel confident in my decision. I struggled with the courses and connecting with the program. After my first semester at UB, I switched into the Exercise Science program, and I am extremely happy with my decision. I love helping others and feel that the information I learn in my courses allows me to better myself! My passion for understanding how the human body works and helping people achieve their fitness and health goals led me to switch to this major. The hands-on learning experiences and the supportive faculty at UB have been instrumental in my academic journey. After graduation, I plan to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, and I would love to work in the sports medicine environment!

I am extremely excited to be an advocate for this program, as I feel that the coursework, faculty and, most importantly, the community of students are what make this major so fulfilling and fun. Outside of class, I enjoy going to the gym, going on walks, playing softball with the club team at UB and finding new food places in Buffalo! I understand the struggles of finding your place here at UB and am happy to give insight into my own journey in hopes of helping you find your place here. Also, I do have a position in admissions here at UB. I’m more than happy to talk about any questions regarding the school, program, campus life, or having an on-campus job. If you're considering the exercise science program, or need advice on balancing academics and extracurricular activities, please feel free to reach out. I'd love to help you make the most of your UB experience.

Feel free to reach out to me on Unibuddy through admissions! UB Ambassadors | Undergraduate Admissions | University at Buffalo

Hi, everyone! My name is Philip Oreste, and I am so excited to represent the Exercise Science program and the School of Public Health and Health Professions as an ambassador this year! I am a 4th-year student, studying exercise science with a concentration in pre-physical therapy. I am also double minoring in psychology and counseling. I look forward to working with prospective students as well as those who are interested in UB’s Exercise Science program. Feel free to reach out to me over email and/or Instagram. I’ll be more than happy to answer any questions and take care of any concerns you may have! I’m a big New York Giants and New York Yankees fan!

Hey everyone! My name is Madison, and I am a junior majoring in exercise science with a concentration of pre-physical therapy with a minor in psychology. I am a first-generation college student and also a Daniel Acker Scholar. Being part of the ES program here at UB has given me the opportunity to learn in a hands-on and supportive environment. The professors, coursework and other ES students have all helped shape and support my passion and goals.

In the future, I plan to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy with the aim of advocating for individuals in underserved communities who may not have access to quality care. I’m especially motivated to help bridge the gap in areas affected by poverty where rehabilitation services are limited. This past summer, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a local rehabilitation center in my hometown, where I worked alongside a physical therapist. That experience was incredibly meaningful as it gave me firsthand insight into patient care, communication and the importance of building trust with those you're helping. Seeing how impactful care can be when it's available motivated me even more to become an advocate for those who might not receive the support they need.

Outside of academics, I love going on walks and hikes, spending time with friends, and exploring new places. I’m also incredibly excited to be serving as an ES Ambassador this year! If you ever need advice, support, or just someone to talk to please don’t hesitate to reach out. If you see me around campus, feel free to say hi, I’d love to connect!

Hi, I’m Nina! I am currently a senior in the Exercise Science program and plan to pursue a doctor of chiropractic (DC) degree after my time here at UB. I love the idea of helping people using a holistic approach and promoting long-term health and wellness. UB has a great selection of courses that not only prepare you for your future career but also help you achieve your own health and wellness goals. Outside of academics I enjoy hiking, going to the beach, and hanging out with friends and family. I have experience dorming, commuting, living off campus and working while in school so feel free to reach out if you have questions regarding the Exercise Science program or college in general!