Biomedical Graduate Student Ambassadors

Maddi Bibby
Madeleine.Bibby@wfusm.edu

Program:  Molecular Medicine and Translational Science PhD

Hometown: Seattle, WA

Undergraduate School: Washington State University

Why Wake? I went to a giant undergraduate institution with 30,000 other students and I realized after graduating that there are so many small universities with really unique offerings for students in the graduate space. Wake Forest provided the small school platform and personalized learning environment that I sought, but also has the resources equivalent to a big university. Simultaneously, the community within the graduate program is massive and enthusiastic, which makes it really easy to find a home here. 

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Tanglewood Park

Kolton Collett
Kolton.Collett@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS

Hometown: Adams, TN

Undergraduate School: Tennessee Tech University

Why Wake? While at Tennessee Tech, my experiences helped shape my passion for medicine. When I toured Wake Forest, I immediately knew I would have the tools and support needed to continue my journey toward becoming a physician. Beyond the vibrant downtown, my wife and I both fell in love with Winston-Salem, which made our decision to move here an easy one. From the very beginning, I felt a true sense of compassion and community within this program—something I believe is uniquely Wake. In addition, the wide range of opportunities to gain experience in healthcare and related fields makes this program an ideal place to grow both academically and personally.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Trade Street (Vibrant Art District)

Morgan Peters
Morgan.Peters@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS

Hometown: Little Rock, AR

Undergraduate School: North Carolina A&T State University

Why Wake? I was really drawn to Wake Forest because of the biomedical sciences curriculum, especially the capstone class. The idea of doing a self-led research project sounded like a great way to dive deeper into a topic I care about and get more hands-on experience before medical school. When I interviewed, the faculty I spoke with were welcoming and easy to talk to. From that first conversation, I felt like Wake was a place where I’d be supported and challenged in the best way.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Salem Park

Stephen Slovensky
Stephen.Slovensky@wfusm.edu

Program: Medical Physics PhD

Hometown: Garden City, NY

Undergraduate School: SUNY Maritime College

Why Wake? The faculty in our program are absolutely incredible! Everyone in our department also works in the clinic, so what you are being taught in class will directly apply to the field. The program is very small, so classes are pretty intimate, and you get a lot of attention both in class and in clinic. Reach out to me if you have any questions!

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Tanglewood Park Golf Course or Pilot Mountain (My Picture!)

Reese Perini
Reese.Perini@wfusm.edu

Program: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology PhD 

Hometown: Greensboro, NC

Undergraduate School: UNC Chapel Hill

Why Wake?  I chose Wake Forest’s MCB program for the opportunity to work with faculty on cutting-edge biomedical research, and to join the close-knit scientific community that Wake fosters. The small program and class sizes make it easy to build strong connections with professors and peers, and the collaborative lab environment has made me feel very supported. My graduate experience at Wake has been better than I could have imagined, and I am very thankful for all of the amazing scientists I get to work with every day!

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Reynolda Gardens and Chad’s Chai Tea House

Holdyn Ferguson
Holdyn.Ferguson@advocatehealth.org

Program: Biomedical Science MS 

Hometown: Fort Mill, SC

Undergraduate School: Winthrop University

Why Wake?  After finishing my undergraduate degree, I spent several years working at Atrium, which gave me a clear sense of how I wanted to grow and prepare for medical school. Continuing my education at Wake Forest felt like the natural next step, and it has provided me not only with a robust academic foundation, but also with an incredible community that has truly become a home away from home.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Quarry Park

Hozayfa Omer
Hozayfa.Omer@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS 

Hometown: Athens, GA

Undergraduate School: Wake Forest University

Why Wake?  After attending Wake Forest for my undergraduate degree, I knew it would be difficult to not return for my next step in my journey to becoming a physician. I have witnessed the community's evolution and its significant role in shaping my academic and personal development. The unparalleled encouragement I have received from peers and faculty has consistently pushed me to strive for excellence. Wake Forest excels at fostering a supportive environment where students are empowered to achieve their goals.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Cin Cin Burger Bar

Keller Gammons
Keller.Gammons@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS 

Hometown: Los Altos, California 

Undergraduate School: Lafayette College (PA)

Why Wake?  The BMSC program was perfect for me. It offered a unique opportunity to gain further experience in research, in the clinic, and learn more from terrific medical school faculty to expand my knowledge and be better prepared for medical school. The students at the medical school and in the biomedical graduate programs create the perfect environment to flourish and promote working together and finding solutions to major issues in the healthcare field.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Barcelona Burger

Jordis Blackburn
jordis.blackburn@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Engineering PhD

Hometown: Maryville, TN

Undergraduate School: University of Tennessee

Why Wake? Following my undergraduate career at Tennessee, I knew that I wanted to continue my passion for research in the regenerative medicine field. After attending the BMES conference and visiting the Wake Forest table, I learned about the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) and knew this was the place I wanted to be. I have been extremely impressed by the collaborative approach that WFIRM takes because it allows me to interact with many different people outside of my research focus. I have also enjoyed the city of Winston-Salem because of the hiking nearby, the Saturday farmer’s market, and the many events around town.

Bailey Brennen
bailey.brennen@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Engineering PhD

Hometown: New Hartford, NY

Undergraduate School: Clarkson University

Why Wake? Having previously spent a summer at the Wake Forest Institute of Regenerative Medicine, I was captivated by the cutting-edge research and the collaborative environment. The intersection among researchers, faculty, and students allowed for a dynamic environment where ideas seamlessly intersect, fostering innovative approaches to scientific inquiry. The unique blend of pioneering research and a collaborative community solidified Wake Forest as my top choice for graduate school.

Kelly Contino
kelly.contino@wfusm.edu

Program:Cancer Biology PhD Program (Previously BMSC)

Hometown:Cary, NC

Undergraduate School:Penn State University

Why Wake? As much as I loved undergrad at Penn State, I knew I wanted to come back to the Carolinas (if possible) for graduate school. At the time I wasn’t sure if I wanted to pursue a PhD or medical school, and Wake’s Biomedical Research program was the perfect option for me to explore both interests. I ended up loving my lab and research so much that I ultimately decided to stay to pursue my PhD.

Emily McEwan, MBChB
emily.mcewan@wfusm.edu

Program: Translational & Health System Science

Hometown: London, England

Undergraduate School: University of St Andrews

Why Wake? The encouraging culture at Wake and the small community feel drew me to the graduate school. As a physician looking for experience in medical research, the THSS program was the perfect fit. The THSS program equips you with skills in implementation science, organizational change and leadership development, and provides great opportunities for networking and cultivating your research interests. 

Favorite Spot in Winston: Salem Lake and Remedy Coffee House

Molly Shirley
molly.shirley@wfusm.edu

Program: Translational Biotechnology MS

Hometown: Raleigh, NC

Undergraduate School: Radboud University (Netherlands)

Why Wake? After living in Europe for 6 years, I wanted to come back to the US for graduate school. I was immediately intrigued by Wake Forest due to the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine. No other institute has the same facilities, resources, or passion for regenerative medicine. Once I found the Translational Biotechnology program, I felt like it was made exactly for me. The program's focus aligns with all of my interests and is preparing me for a career in industry.

Favorite Spot in Winston: East of Texas

Kamryn Bush
kamryn.bush@wfusm.edu

Program: Genetic Counseling MS

Hometown: Glen Gardner, NJ

Undergraduate School: Rutgers University

Why Wake? I was initially drawn to Wake by its geographic location, strong emphasis on bioethics and mentorship, and the opportunities it offers as a world-class institution. I loved how Winston-Salem was described to me as a "city with a small-town feel." The warmth and accessibility of the faculty, along with the inclusive atmosphere of the Wake community, convinced me that this was the place I wanted to be!

Favorite Spot in Winston: Salem Lake and Cugino Forno

Grace Ward
olivia.g.ward@wfusm.edu

Program: Medical Physics MS

Hometown: Franklin, TN

Undergraduate School: Vanderbilt University

Why Wake? I chose Wake’s MedPhys program because I felt welcomed by the professors & felt that they would be as invested in my success as I am. Wake also has more emphasis on clinical time during your second year, allowing students to get exposure to different clinical workflows (IMRT, SRS, Brachytherapy, Gamma Knife, and more). Furthermore, I felt as though this program was geared toward helping their students pass ABR Part One before applying for residency. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about the program!

Favorite Spot in Winston: Dough-Joe’s

Khushbu Patel
khushbu.a.patel@wfusm.edu

Program: Cancer Biology PhD

Hometown: Orangeburg, SC

Undergraduate School: College of Charleston

Why Wake? I chose Wake for its supportive and collaborative environment. When I interviewed, I instantly felt at home—everyone genuinely wanted the best for me. It was clear that the mentors prioritized teaching and helping students grow without making them feel inadequate, and I was right. Wake fosters an open-door culture, providing endless opportunities for learning, mentorship, and professional development. Plus, I love the city of Winston-Salem—it has everything you need, from great coffee shops to peaceful nature spots, all in a quiet and welcoming atmosphere.

Favorite Spot in Winston: Louie & Honey

Jenna Ollodart
jenna.ollodart@wfusm.edu

Program: Cancer Biology PhD

Hometown: Wallingford, CT

Undergraduate School: University of Connecticut (UConn)

Why Wake? I was initially drawn to Wake Forest because of its PhD program in Cancer Biology, which aligned with my academic goals. Coming from the Northeast my whole life, I wanted to experience something new (and warmer). After completing my master’s in the BMR program at Wake, I knew that I wanted to continue my journey here and apply to the PhD program with the same mentor. The supportive, student-focused atmosphere was a key factor in my decision. The faculty and staff genuinely care about the students and are always receptive to fresh ideas and perspectives, ensuring a rewarding educational and research experience.

Favorite Spot in Winston: Stuart & Emma Thomas Memorial Trail and Melrose Coffee

Kara Rollins 
kara.rollins@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Research MS

Hometown: Caroline County, VA

Undergraduate School: Old Dominion University

Why Wake? After graduating with an undergraduate degree, I knew I wanted to pursue a graduate degree in research, specifically cancer biology research. Wake Forest University School of Medicine had everything I wanted in a school from a strong foundation in research as a university to the Comprehensive Cancer Center. In addition, I have never seen such a supportive faculty and staff at a university. All though I enjoyed my time at Old Dominion University, there’s a personable touch about Wake. Everyone is very kind and genuinely wants to see you succeed. The community at Wake and in Winston-Salem is one I have never experienced but love.

Favorite Spot in Winston: My favorite spot in Winston-Salem would have to be the Dabble Art Bar. There you can come in and do whatever crafts you want that they provide materials for and clean up when you are done. I am a crafty girl so this place is a dream!

Noelle Nicol
noelle.nicol@wfusm.edu

Program: Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology PhD

Hometown: Fontana, CA

Undergraduate School: Johns Hopkins University

Why Wake? Worked in Winston-Salem for one summer and fell in love with being here. Winston-Salem is such a good mid-sized city for me and I loved the community feeling of the grad school. I have always felt included, supported, and that the people here know me personally.

Favorite Spot in Winston: Dough Joes or Hanging Rock

Sasha Lyubovskaya
Aleksandra.lyubovskaya@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Research MS 

Hometown: Burke, VA

Undergraduate School: Virginia Tech 

Why Wake? My biggest goal is for the research I do to be impactful, improve science, and to help people. The program directors at Wake said that my schooling and research will do just that. Although the BMR program is only two years long, it was great to hear that what I do in lab could further science. Hearing faculty passionately talk about their research and what their students are achieving really solidified my decision in joining the BMR program at Wake Forest. 

Favorite Spot in Winston: First Hand Climbing gym