Student Testimonials

"I chose to join UCI LEAD-ABC because I wanted to be a part of a program that supported my medical and professional goals. As an African American woman, I wanted to restore the trust lost between healthcare and my community. I wanted to be the voice of the members of my community who have felt unheard or forgotten. UCI’s PRIME LEAD-ABC program continues to give us the tools and opportunities to make this difference, fostering an environment that allows us to be the best possible advocate for our most vulnerable patients." -Gabrielle Baker, MS2, UC Irvine School of Medicine

"Growing up, I never saw doctors who looked like me, and it wasn’t until undergrad that I finally met one. Before then, my idea of what a doctor could look like felt really constricted. I still remember the day a doctor asked my mom about her diet and actually worked her Nigerian cultural food into her care plan — that moment really stuck with me. I joined PRIME LEAD-ABC because I want to be that kind of doctor — one who gets it — and share what I learn with others who might not be ABC but still need to learn how to care for us. And honestly, LEAD-ABC is a family, and I knew I wanted to be part of it." -Mary Aina, MS2, UC Irvine School of Medicine

"I chose to join UCI’s PRIME LEAD-ABC program because it offered the opportunity to grow alongside a cohort of peers who were equally passionate, creative, and committed to addressing health disparities in the African, Black and Caribbean (ABC) community. I knew LEAD-ABC would help shape me into the kind of physician who not only understands the science of medicine but also the cultural and structural factors impacting health. I was especially inspired by our directors, Dr. Candice Taylor Lucas and Dr. Carol Major, who have been exceptional role models in showing how this vision can be turned into action." -Olamide Sonuga, MS4, UC Irvine School of Medicine

"I chose to join UCI PRIME LEAD-ABC because the mission aligns with my desire to plant roots in my community for young aspiring physicians to learn and grow from. I find passion in empowering others to pursue their dreams through adversity, and likewise, I want to provide this same leadership in the clinical setting. Ensuring that underrepresented community members have access to health education and resources through initiatives that I help start and grow." -Jordan Zonner, MS3, UC Irvine School of Medicine

"I chose to join UCI PRIME LEAD-ABC because its mission aligns with my goals and passions for both my medical school journey and my future career as a physician. The program's initiative to address health disparities and improve health equity in underserved communities is something I was eager to be involved in. UCI PRIME LEAD-ABC provides the mentorship, community and leadership development that will help me grow into a future physician who can serve patients while advancing equity in medicine." -Jalynn Waites, MS3, UC Irvine School of Medicine

"I chose to join UCI's PRIME LEAD-ABC because I wanted to grow with like-minded individuals in a community focused on academic and leadership excellence. I had the privilege of being seen by an African American primary caregiver, and he truly bridged a gap in accessibility that inspired me. By joining UCI’s PRIME LEAD-ABC program, I hope to take advantage of the opportunities, networks and experiences that will help cultivate me into a physician that future families like mine can begin to trust." -Davion Pendleton, MS1, UC Irvine School of Medicine

"I chose PRIME LEAD-ABC because I wanted to be part of a program that not only fosters community and friendship but also provides the resources, mentorship, and support needed to help students thrive and reach their career goals." -Marisa Nwoke, MS3, UC Irvine School of Medicine