Alina Syros, Current MD Candidate
BU Majors & Graduation Dates:
BS in Human Physiology (2018); Masters in Public Health (2019)
Current School and Year:
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, MS3
Preferred Pronouns:
she/her
Hometown:
Sarasota, FL
What school are you attending and what you are studying? Why did you choose to apply to this school? What do you think makes your school unique?
I am currently an MD candidate at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine (UMMSM). I chose to apply to UMMSM for medical school because of the accelerated NextGenMD curriculum, diverse patient population, Ryder Trauma Center, Department of Community Service (DOCS) and the tight-knit student body. The curriculum at UMMSM is unique, as we begin clerkships in our second year instead of the third year of medical school. This allows us more time for research, electives, and clinical encounters.
Is there a specialization and/or specific population you are interested in? Why? How did you get into it and/or learn more about it?
I am interested in orthopaedic surgery. I was first introduced to orthopaedics when I shadowed a BU MED alumni my sophomore year of undergrad. Post-grad I worked in the department of orthopaedics at Massachusetts General Hospital and since beginning medical school I have been involved in orthopaedics research and the Orthopaedic Student Interest Group (OSIG).
I love the field because of the drastic improvement in both patients’ quality of life and mobility. I also enjoy the hands-on procedures and manual labor unique to the field.
Did you take any gap years?
During college, I was in the Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation BS/MPH program. After graduating with my BS in Human Physiology (2018) I completed my Masters in Public Health (2019) focused in Epidemiology/Biostatistics and sub-concentrated in Infectious Disease. Prior to matriculating into medical school, I worked at Massachusetts General Hospital as a Clinical Coordinator in the Department of Orthopaedics.
What was your favorite BU course and why?
My favorite BU course was Gross Human Anatomy with Dr. Schotland. I loved the rigor of the course and the in-person lab component. The course was very helpful in preparing me for medical school. Additionally, Dr. Schotland is an incredible professor and truly passionate about teaching anatomy.
Were you involved in any clubs/groups at BU?
AEPHI Sorority, Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-Med Honor Society, intramural basketball, Love Your Melon
Have you always known you wanted to be a doctor? What/who has been your biggest inspiration?
I always had an idea that I was interested in pursuing something in STEM, but during my time at BU I realized my interest in physiology and medicine. BU provided me with the foundation and confidence that I needed to pursue my goal of becoming a doctor. My biggest inspiration throughout this journey has been my older brother Dimitri, who has always motivated me and encouraged me throughout the process. Through his example, I learned that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
What resource at BU did you find most helpful or want to spotlight that others might not know about?
1 on-1 peer tutoring in Baystate (I used this for organic chemistry, cell bio, and systems physiology). All of the upperclassmen that helped me were incredible, this is a resource that I wish I had found earlier.
What are your hobbies/What do you like to do for fun outside of the classroom?
Outside of the classroom, I love to hang out with my family and friends, try new foods, explore the city, play basketball and watch Netflix.
Are there any tips/advice you would like to share with current pre-health students?
The most important resource I had throughout my pre-med years was my support system. Though things can be discouraging at times and overwhelming, having a strong support system will always keep you grounded and motivated. I’m grateful for all my Sargent (2018) friends who were on this journey with me. It makes it a lot easier when you have classmates/friends going through the same thing as you throughout the pre-med process, MCAT and application cycle. My best advice is to work hard to get the grades and apply as early as possible in the application cycle.