Nikhil Sharma, Class of 2024
HOMETOWN:
Haverford, PA
UNDERGRADUATE INSTITUTION:
Fairleigh Dickinson University; Geisinger Commonwealth SOM; BS in Business (Marketing); MS in Biomedical Sciences
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO ATTEND PITT MEDICINE:
I chose Pitt Med for the cohesive, diverse, and truly amazing student body and faculty members.
DESCRIBE YOUR LIFE AS A MEDICAL STUDENT AT PITT MED:
I love my life here at Pitt. There is a very uncompetitive environment, where everyone wants you to do your best and just learn medicine, new research, and explore your own personal interests. Generally, I study for about 6-7 hours a day, I do about an hour or so of research, and then I go workout or relax with friends. During exam weeks, it's a little more studying, but overall I get to do a little bit of everything I want during the week!
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE PITT MEDICINE COMMUNITY:
The Pitt Med community is full of super welcoming, extremely cohesive, and truly inspiring individuals.
WHAT STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN:
Neuroscience AOC, Birmingham Clinical student volunteer, Pitt Med Buddies, and a few intramural sports teams
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WITH YOUR SPARE TIME:
I love to work out, spend time with my friends, and watch lots of movies.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING TO PITT MEDICINE:
Pick a theme for your application and really show how you demonstrate that theme through your experiences and characteristics. Also, always be true to yourself.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING IN THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH:
The restaurant/bar scene here is really fun! Also, I love that Pittsburgh has lots of outdoor places to visit (for hiking, playing sports, and just city exploring)!
WHAT DID YOU (OR ARE YOU PLANNING TO) DO DURING THE SUMMER AFTER YOUR FIRST YEAR OF MEDICAL SCHOOL:
I'm working on several neurosurgical projects, taking the anatomy mini-elective, and traveling to see friends and family.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COURSE AT PITT MEDICINE:
Has to be a tie between neuroscience and anatomy. Both professors were super knowledgeable and made the material very fun and interesting!
ANY FINAL ADVICE FOR ACCEPTED STUDENTS:
Go to the school that makes you feel at home and the most supported. Medical school is tough. There are a lot of stressors but academically, financially, and maybe even socially. You need a strong support system and a faculty base that has your best interests in mind. Pick the school where you feel most supported.