Chloe Elleman ('21) | President

Hometown: Milford, Ohio

About Me: When I was choosing a college major, I knew that I wanted to go into medicine, but I did not want to go down the traditional route of a biology degree, and no other majors suited my interests. When I found the Medical Sciences major at UC, I knew that it was the perfect fit for me. As a current MedSci student, I can say that the volunteer, research, shadowing, and educational opportunities along with the close-knit cohort of students and faculty have far exceeded my expectations. Especially because I am interested in pediatric medicine, MedSci’s connection with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital has done wonders in helping me pursue my career goals. I am so grateful for all of the support that the Medical Sciences Program provides to prepare students for medical school and beyond.

Fun Fact: In addition to my love of the medical field, I really enjoy learning about history. I am a member of the UC Hepcats swing dance club and know how to play the colonial fife.

Sydney Bevelhimer ('22) | Vice President 

Hometown: Zionsville, Indiana

About Me: I chose the Medical Sciences program because I know that it will prepare me well for medical school. This program allows us to have classes taught by med school faculty as undergraduates, and offers a unique opportunity for research, shadowing, volunteering, and mentorship. I also fell in love with the cooperative and supportive nature of this program which I couldn't find anywhere else!

Fun Fact: I have a dog who is a Saint Berdoodle, which is a Saint Bernard Poodle Mix

Anna Vogel ('22) | Recruitment Chair 

Hometown: Ann Abor, Michigan 

About Me: What stood out to me when choosing Medical Sciences was the extensive opportunities students received, like the unique classes we take in the UC’s medical school that are taught by med school professors, the experiential learning opportunities, like shadowing, volunteering, and research, and how prepared students are for going into medical school. Being part of MedSci, I’ve experienced all those as well as the amazing community within this program; I feel supported by my peers, Advisors, professors, and everybody in MedSci.

Fun Fact: I’ve donated my hair three times to organizations that make wigs for cancer patients!

Fatima Khan ('22) | Treasurer 

Hometown: Mason, Ohio

About Me: Hi! My name is Fatima Khan and I am a second-year medical sciences major. I've lived in Cincinnati all my life, I'm a huge star wars fan and I love dogs!

Fun Fact: I've gotten stitches on my earlobe.

Annie Emmert ('22) | Secretary

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

About Me: Hi! My name is Annie Emmert and I am a Medical Sciences major from Cincinnati, Ohio. When I began college, I had no idea what career path I wanted to follow. My passion for helping others ultimately led me to switch my major between my second and third year of college to pursue a Pre-Med track as a Medical Sciences major. I strongly believe that the Medical Sciences program offers students unique opportunities such as participating in research at world-class facilities, shadowing medical professionals from dozens of specialties, receiving guidance from upperclassmen and faculty mentors, and taking classes taught by University of Cincinnati Medical School faculty. The nurturing environment fostered by the Medical Sciences faculty, staff, and students makes this major very special. I feel so blessed to be a Medical Sciences student and I could not be happier with my decision!

Fun Fact: I love mints and I love chocolate, but I cannot stand the taste of chocolate mint ice cream—even from Graeter’s!

Ronak Shah ('21) 

Hometown: Edison, New Jersey

About me: Hi! My name is Ronak Shah and I'm a Medical Sciences major from Edison, New Jersey. I've wanted to be a physician for basically my entire life so this program is exactly what I had been looking for all throughout high school. Outside of my future goals, I love being adventurous and trying new things which is why I've taken such classes as astronomy and yoga. I'm also a really active individual, considering I've played basketball, and sports as a whole, for as long as I can remember. In my free time, I also really enjoy reading and watching TV. My favorite book is The Da Vinci Code and my favorite TV show is White Collar. You can also often catch me in movie theaters with friends watching any Marvel or DC movie that is out at the time. 

Fun Fact: My parents put me in a dance class when I was five years old and I have loved dancing ever since. 

Scott Vennemeyer ('21)

Hometown: Mason,Ohio

About Me: When I first started my college search, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go into computer science or medicine, but I knew UC had amazing programs for both! When I first heard a presentation about the Medical Sciences program, however, I was hooked! Now, as a student here, every one of my peers supports one another and we work together, utilizing all of the world class resources afforded to us through this amazing program. With abundant opportunities for learning both in and outside of the classroom, the Medical Sciences program is truly special!

Fun Fact: I have a twin brother who also attends UC (we look nothing alike though, so you won’t see a carbon copy of me walking around campus). I’m also a saxophone player and I play at parties and events around the Cincinnati area!

Logan Lake ('21)

Hometown: Harrison, OH

About Me: I chose Medical Sciences because I feel like there is no other major or program that better prepares students for medical school, as well as for a career and life in medicine. There are virtually unlimited opportunities to shadow local physicians, to work in a lab doing hands on research, and to make connections with renowned faculty. The curriculum is also unique in that it allows students to take classes on medical campus that are very advanced and apply directly to the knowledge necessary to succeed in med school. The community and extensive support system MedSci has in place basically makes success imminent.

Fun Fact: One time I was on a Chilito kick and ate 13 in 4 days. If you don’t know what a chilito is I suggest you drive on over to Skyline and find out!

Rahul Patel ('21)

Hometown: West Chester, Ohio

About Me: Hi! My name is Rahul Patel and I am a Senior in the Medical Sciences major. I basically grew up around Cincinnati and have always loved the rich culture of the it. One of the big reasons I chose MedSci is due its unique culture but also because of its deep commitment towards its students. It provides numerous opportunities for innovative research, shadowing, and volunteering. Another amazing aspect of MedSci is that the faculty and advisors  are always open to talk with you and are 100% dedicated to their students. My goal for as long as I can remember is becoming a physician and Medical Sciences has helped me pave the path towards it. 

Fun Fact: I love watching movies/TV and have watched the entire Game of Thrones series three times. I also enjoy hiking and have seen a Himalayan sunrise.

Michael Smith ('22) 

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio 

About Me: Hi! My name is Michael Masuck, and I am a third year Medical Sciences student at the University of Cincinnati. I chose to join the Medical Sciences because of the resources provided to their students. I have wanted to be a physician since I was 12 years old, and when I heard about the Medical Sciences program I become very excited and interested about what the program offered to its students. With opportunities such as shadowing in surgery, to research positions in virtually any department imaginable, to classes that incorporate study abroad experiences, the Medical Sciences program has been tailored to provide students with opportunities to help students to create competitive applications for Medical School. My goal is to become a physician, specifically an orthopedic surgeon, and as a result chose to attend the University of Cincinnati Medical Sciences program.

Fun Fact: I am an avid outdoorsman! I typically spend my time outside of classes and studying doing activities such as skiing, wakeboarding, hiking and trail running. After I graduate from UC I plan to road trip across the United States before medical school.

Kate Juliani ('22)

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

About Me: I decided to join the Medical Sciences program due to the unique nature of the major and the incredible opportunities it has to offer. UC's emphasis on experiential learning is my favorite thing about the university! The mentorship I have received has really helped shape my values and strengths as a person, and the community is extremely supportive of one another. I am majoring in Medical Sciences and minoring in psychology, hoping to one day be a pediatric physician. Outside of MedSci, I am a ROAR Tour guide and involved in Greek Life!

Fun Fact: I thought the mannequins in DAAP were real people and asked one of them how to get to my chemistry lecture.

Ahmed Ashraf ('22)

Hometown: Mason, Ohio 

About Me: I chose the Medical Sciences program with the goal of becoming a future physician, and know that the opportunities available through MedSci are unparalleled by any other program. Through the MedSci mentoring program I have received abundant guidance, not only from upperclassmen, but from first-year medical students who understand the challenges undergrad can offer.

Fun Fact: With my cousins, I drove 8 hours from San Diego to Yosemite National Park, hiked for 8 hours, and then drove back, all in the span of 1 day. Our entire trip was planned the night prior.

Morgan Dent ('22)

Hometown: Walton, Kentucky

About Me: I chose Medical Sciences because I wanted the structure of a rigorous, competitive program to help prepare me for my future career in healthcare. In my time at UC, I have found that MedSci is much more than academics. The experiential learning opportunities here can't be beat! The faculty, mentors, and Advisors have been immensely helpful with navigating college life in and out of the classroom, whether it is for shadowing, research, or something completely unrelated to medicine. I also love having a community of supportive, passionate peers who support me!

Fun Fact: I have made a list of 100 restaurants in Cincinnati I want to visit before I graduate (it's so hard on my wallet and my waistline. but definitely worth it).

Eva Hanson  ('22)

Hometown: Bellbrook, Ohio

About Me: As the first MedSci student from Bellbrook, I didn't know much going into the program. I didn't have anyone that I could ask about the major. However, I have found it to be an incredibly welcoming community filled with friendly individuals. By becoming a member of the ambassador program, I hope to give others what I didn't have; that is, someone to talk to about what MedSci is all about, about its collaborative atmosphere, the course load, and the amazing opportunities it extends. I love MedSci, and I couldn't imagine majoring in anything else. Go UC!

Fun Fact: Iam a huge cinephile, and my favorite movies are How to Train Your Dragon (I definitely didn't go to an early showing of the third one), The Shawshank Redemption, and In Bruges.

Emma Baah-Binney ('23)

Hometown: Mason, Ohio

About me: I am a second-year Medical Sciences student and what I love most about MedSci is the fact that the faculty and staff is always there ready to help us in everything we aspire to do. I love the community that comes with being a MedSci student as we all work together and tackle our classes together. I am a ROAR Guide, a Midwest Dhamaka Liaison and I also do a lot of Volunteer work with Crossroad Health Center and Medical Volunteers of UC. I love hanging out with friends and doing various activities outside of studies and classes. I appreciate all that MedSci has to offer as I feel prepared for what I plan to do in the future.

Fun Fact: I was born in Ghana, Africa but sadly I can only speak English.

Nadia Alam ('23)

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

About Me: As a Cincinnati native, the Medical Sciences program struck my interest early on. Through a combination of faculty mentorship, advising, and peer support networks, the program encourages students to excel in service in the community, leadership activities on campus, and critical thinking in the classroom. These invaluable resources provided by Medical Sciences staff and students have shaped my experience in the program, and continue to motivate me professionally, personally, and academically. Above all, our community of supporting peers makes each challenge exciting!

Fun Fact: As a commuter, I am known to have an eclectic collection of items in my car including an entire shoe closet, several wardrobe changes, and dozens of granola bars!

John Burwinkel ('23)

Hometown: Kirtland, Ohio 

About Me: Hello! I am a first-year medical sciences student. I chose this particular major because I have always been curious about how the basic sciences re intertwined with health and medicine. A major in a single science would not dive into this kind of relationship. Medical Sciences also provides a great sense of community with a vast network of support ranging from peer mentors all the way to personal meetings with the program director. Outside of studying, I love to stay active in various extracurriculars. You can find me playing frisbee in Nippert Stadium or cheering on the Bearcats during athletic events. Go Bearcats!

Fun Fact: I have not missed a single home football game since being admitted, and I plan to keep the streak alive for the entirety of my time at UC.

Karishma Ponkshe ('23)

Hometown: Mason, Ohio

About me: Hi! My name is Karishma Ponkshe and I'm a current first year in Medical Sciences from Mason, Ohio. I love to watch TV; some of my favorite shows include White Collar, Psych, and Lucifer. I also love to play tennis, bike, and dance in my free time!  was always interested in the healthcare field. I love the Med Sci community and mentorship. This program does an amazing job providing you with opportunities, research, and internships!

Fun Fact: I've recently turned vegan! I also love documentaries and conspiracy theories.

Megha Mohanakrishnan (’23)

Hometown: San Jose, California

About Me: Hi! My name is Megha Mohanakrishnan, and I am excited to be majoring in Medical Sciences at the University of Cincinnati. As an out-of-state student, I had first applied to the major as a prerequisite for the Connections Dual Admissions Program. Once I came to UC, however, I discovered that Medical Sciences has so much more to offer. From the mentors at various stages of their medical careers to the opportunity to take courses taught by the College of Medicine professors, I am grateful for the resources that I've gained through the program. The perks of Medical Sciences definitely make up for my move from sunny California! Outside of academics, I love watching movies, trying new foods, and volunteering my time to the local community.

Fun Fact: I collect key chains as souvenirs from the different places I have traveled to. I currently have about 30 key chains so far and I hope to grow my collection through future adventures!

Noor Amir ('23)

Hometown: Mason, Ohio 

About me: Hello! My name is Noor Amir and I’m a first year student in the Medical Sciences program. I chose to major in Medical Sciences because the program is an incredibly unique experience to be in a community that is invested in my development not only as a pre-med student, but as a person. Being a part of a community where I have mentors, advisors and fellow students following this path with me has been the best source of guidance and motivation one can have on the pre-med track. Choosing to dedicate your life to medicine at this age at times can be daunting. However, the Medical Sciences program has instilled hope and wisdom in me to continue this passion and truly feel that I have a support system along the way! 

Fun Fact: I got voted best dressed in high school even though we wore uniform! 

Sophia Le ('23)

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

About Me: Hi, my name is Sophia Le, and I am studying Medical Sciences at the University of Cincinnati. Besides majoring in Medical Sciences, I am pursuing a Spanish minor. I am also involved in Student Alumni Council and Students Consulting for Nonprofit Organizations. Outside of classes, I enjoy watching and playing sports, reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. In the future, I hope to attend medical school and become a practicing physician. I have been interested in medicine since I was young and have found the perfect fit here in MedSci. 

Fun Fact: LeBron James once waved to me.

Nicholas Shaw ('23)

Hometown: Xenia, Ohio

About Me: Hi! My name is Nick Shaw, and I am a Medical Sciences student. In addition to majoring in Medical Sciences, I am pursuing a certificate in Bioethics. As for my future plans, I am interested in going to graduate school to work toward a Ph.D. in Regeneration and Stem Cell Biology. Ideally, I would become a professor at an academic institution after I eventually graduate. Outside of classes, I am involved with research at Cincinnati Children’s and ROAR Guides. When I am not participating in these more structured activities, I can be found hiking, rock climbing, running, or eating Skyline.

Fun Fact: I am training to run a half-marathon!