Biomedical Graduate Student Ambassadors

Layah Clinton
Layah.Clinton@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS

Hometown: Waxhaw, NC

Undergraduate School: UNC Chapel Hill

Why Wake? After completing my undergraduate degree, I knew I wanted to pursue a post baccalaureate or master’s program that would strengthen my foundation and make me a more competitive PA school applicant. During my graduate school search, Wake Forest’s Master of Biomedical Science program immediately stood out. Its small cohort and intimate class sizes create an environment where meaningful relationships with professors and peers can truly flourish. From my very first interview, it was clear that the program’s faculty and coordinators are deeply invested in each student’s success. That level of support is rare, and incredibly valuable.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: River Birch Lodge 

Rav Alcid
Rav.Alcid@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS

Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC

Undergraduate School: UNC Chapel Hill

Why Wake? I am drawn to Wake's dedication to integrating innovative research with exemplary patient care. The institution’s academic rigor, combined with my formative experience in the cadaver lab, has solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in medicine. Having spent nearly my entire life in Winston-Salem, I am eager to give back to the community that shaped me into the person I am today.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, Long Branch Trail

Samantha McNabb
Samantha.Mcnabb@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Engineering PhD

Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

Undergraduate School: Clemson University

Why Wake? I had the opportunity to spend a summer at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine during my undergraduate and absolutely fell in love with the laboratories and research being conducted here. The faculty and graduate students were so welcoming and excited to share their knowledge with others that Wake immediately became my top choice for graduate school. The city of Winston-Salem was also a huge draw considering there is something new to checkout every weekend (farmer's markets, pop-up shops, sporting events, and so much more).

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Lot 63

Aidan Byrd
Aidan.Byrd@advocatehealth.org

Program: Biomedical Science MS

Hometown: Moravian Falls, NC

Undergraduate School: UNC Chapel Hill

Why Wake? I was drawn to Wake Forest because of the community. Coming from a large undergraduate institution, I valued the intimacy and connectedness offered by a smaller program. The opportunity to curate your own capstone project and choose a team of experts to work alongside you was also incredibly unique. The BMSC program has been perfect for me!

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Camino Bakery

Fatima Zarate
Fatima.Zarate@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS

Hometown: Thomasville, NC

Undergraduate School: UNC Greensboro

Why Wake? During my senior year at UNCG I felt uneasy about my next steps in my professional career. Even though the program had been mentioned before to me, I had not explored it enough. After visiting the school during their annual Research Day, I realized Wake is where I wanted to be. It gives students the opportunity to grow, explore, and conquer.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Taco Rico! Best tacos ever!

Colby Garner
Colby.Garner@wfusm.edu

Program: Biomedical Science MS

Hometown: Inman, South Carolina

Undergraduate School: Wofford College

Why Wake? : I chose Wake Forest for a number of reasons. The Bowman Gray Center for Medical Education is located in the heart of one of Winston Salem’s fastest growing communities. It sits just outside of the city but has a number of amenities within a short walking distance, offering both accessibility and a welcoming environment. Wake Forest embodies the character, familiarity, and academic excellence that make North Carolina feel like home. After matriculating into the BMSC program, my love for Wake only grew. The faculty, staff, locals, and students make you feel at home no matter the circumstance. After being at Wake for one semester, I cannot see myself at another graduate institution and I am beyond thankful for the opportunities that Wake Forest and Winston Salem have opened up for me.

Favorite Spot in Winston-Salem: Burke Street Pub

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

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

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.

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