EMSAP Students - Class of 2030

Hi! My name is Shrinidhi Abbagoni, and I’m from Suwanee, Georgia. I graduated from Lambert High School and was part of its Medical Sciences Academy. During high school, I explored my interests in leadership and service by serving as president of the UNICEF Club, helping establish an American Heart Association club on campus, and participating in HOSA and the American Red Cross Committee. Outside of school, I was a student leader and veteran mentor with Youth Leadership Forsyth. I also interned with the nonprofit Next Generation Focus (NGF), where I promoted wellness and social-emotional learning for underserved students. Along the way, I became a certified phlebotomy technician and interned at my local hospital during my senior year. These experiences strengthened my passion for healthcare and serving others.

I am drawn to EMSAP because of UAB’s strong presence in the South, as well as its mentorship and early exposure to medicine. At UAB, I plan to major in Cancer Biology in the Personalized Honors Program. I’m excited to experience all that EMSAP and UAB have to offer and cannot wait to be part of such a supportive community. Go Blazers!

Hi! My name is Aanya Aligireddy, and I’m from Cumming, Georgia. I recently graduated from Forsyth Central High School's STEM Academy, where I completed the Biotechnology & Computer Science pathways and earned certifications in Biotechnology and as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Throughout high school, I explored my passion for healthcare through volunteering at Emory Hospital, interning in pediatric dentistry, general dentistry, and orthodontics, and conducting hands-on biotechnology lab work involving molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, and genetic engineering techniques. I also served as President of Key Club, VP of Marketing of Science Olympiad, and an officer in the National Honor Society. In addition, I was recognized as a National Merit Finalist and earned top placements in HOSA research poster and TSA biotechnology competitions.

Outside of school, I worked as an instructor at Mathnasium and participated in the Harvard Undergraduate Microbiology Society. In my free time, I enjoy listening to true crime podcasts, trying new coffee shops with friends, and photography. My experiences in dentistry and healthcare inspired my interest in pursuing a career in dental medicine and deepened my passion for patient care. At UAB, I plan to major in Immunology and continue pursuing research, service, and community involvement through EDSAP's supportive community of motivated students and dedicated mentors. Go Blazers!

Hello! My name is Jatin Banna and I’m from Montgomery, Alabama. I recently graduated from Loveless Academic Magnet Program (LAMP) High School, where I was co-founder of the Research Club, co-chair for Debate, and on Student Council. Outside of school, I was deeply involved in volunteering for our local cancer center and hospice organization. I also did research at AUM and ASU on microbial interactions with cancer cells. At UAB, I’m majoring in Cancer Biology to continue my goal of becoming an oncologist. I also plan to continue volunteering and researching at UAB throughout my four years. I am confident that UAB will be a great place for me to grow as both a person and a student to help my future patients. Go Blazers!

Hi! My name is Laura Bukelis, and I graduated from Vestavia Hills High School. I plan to major in Cancer Biology through the Personalized Honors Path and pursue a Master’s in Public Health. In high school, alongside participating in various clubs and organizations, I served as a treasurer for peer tutoring, a student committee member for the cultural festival, I Am Vestavia, and competed in Clinical Science in HOSA.

Outside of school, I had the opportunity to research the complexities of glioblastoma development at UAB. I presented preliminary findings on the impact of short chain fatty acids on glioblastoma tumor activation and immune cell composition. I also gained hands-on experience in a hospital setting through UAB’s Teen Volunteer Program. I strengthened my passion for medicine through shadowing opportunities in Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, and Primary Care. I am so grateful to be a part of the EMSAP community where support, rigor, and opportunity will help shape me to become a future physician. Go Blazers!

Hi my name is Danielle George and I attended the Alabama School of Fine Arts! My activities during high school included leading our chapter of Girls Who Code, partaking in the International Science & Engineering Fair, leading a mental health and substance abuse prevention program, volunteering at UAB hospital in the Gynecologic Oncology unit, competing in several mathematical modeling competitions (M3C & HIMCM), and being part of the Global Health Leadership Conference at John’s Hopkins University. At UAB, I’m planning to major in Cancer Biology, and I’m part of the University Honors Program. I’m really excited for UAB EMSAP because I can continue my research, and meet people from around the world who are also passionate about serving communities through medical discovery.

Hello! My name is Neil Govin, and I’m from Atlanta, Georgia, where I attended The Westminster Schools. Throughout high school, I was a varsity soccer player for four years, a vice president in Student Government, a leader in our school’s South Asian Affinity Group, a sports editor for our school newspaper, and a lead Admissions Ambassador. Outside of school, I tutored Latino elementary school students, played academy soccer, and volunteered with VITAS Hospice Care Center.

One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had that shaped my desire to become a physician was traveling to Cajolá, Guatemala with the Global Public Service Academies. There, I was able to provide oral health education, conduct vision screenings, and take basic vitals in underserved communities. Seeing how even small interventions could greatly change the course of someone’s life strengthened and solidified my commitment to serving others through medicine. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing soccer and spikeball, trying new restaurants, and watching Liverpool FC with my family.

Hi! My name is Adi Gowda, and I am from Huntsville. I graduated from Randolph School, where I played Varsity Tennis. I founded the school’s HOSA chapter and also founded and edited the monthly newsletter Randolph Medical Rounds. Throughout high school, I was actively involved in honor societies, Computer Club, Spanish Club, YLC, and served as a Randolph Ambassador. As a research intern at UAB, I conducted and presented research on the effects of chlorine gas exposure. Shadowing physicians and earning an EMT certification gave me valuable first hand clinical experience which deepened my passion for medicine.

Outside of school, I volunteered extensively as a medical assistant and Spanish translator at local free clinics. Witnessing disparities in healthcare inspired me to found DonateUrMeds, a nonprofit organization that redistributes unused medications to free clinics which not only helped my community but also benefitted the environment by reducing pharmaceutical waste. For this work and my community service, I received several local and national honors, including the Mayor’s Teen of the Year Award and Community Service Award of the Year.

At UAB,I plan to major in Neuroscience and continue learning Spanish. Having spent several summers in the Research Programs conducted at UAB, I am aware of the cutting edge research that is being conducted and am excited to be a part of it. I look forward to being a part of the close knit EMSAP family and becoming a well rounded human being as well as a compassionate physician.

Hi! My name is Hasini Grandhi, and I’m from Hoover, Alabama. I graduated from Hoover High, where I was vice president and co-founder of Hoover’s National Science Bowl Team, a member of the Math Team, the Hoover Quiz Bowl A-Team, the IB program, and a DECA Hospitality Officer and ICDC Finalist. I volunteered often at the Shelby Baptist Orlando Health Cath Lab, McWane Science Center, helping to run math and quiz bowl tournaments, and as a Red Cross Junior Blood Drive Ambassador. I have assisted with research on brain activity during different social cues, such as reading and language comprehension. I’ve also worked as a tutor and as a Carnatic music teacher. In my free time, I love to read and write stories, try new foods, and watch cheesy movies. My interest in medicine primarily came to be thanks to my various experiences shadowing cardiologists and internists.

I plan to major in Genetics and Genomic Sciences, and minor in business, and eventually get an MBA. I look forward to joining EMSAP because of the strong community and challenge through academic rigor that is offered in a program like this. Gooo Blazers!

Hello, my name is Rishi and I attended St. Luke’s Episcopal School in Mobile, AL. In High School I participated in varsity soccer for 5 years, as well as cross country for 3 years serving as captain for both. I participated in a wide array of activities including Hi-Q, Omega Lamplighters, Theater, and our Chapel Band. I founded a chapter of the American Heart Association's Heart Club to conduct healthcare centered community outreach and service, and I was able to get 1/3rd of our high school student body to join the club. I volunteered with my local infirmary, in a cancer research lab, for the Red Shoe Krewe, and several other outreach and leadership programs throughout my time in high school. In pursuit of becoming a physician I spent lots of time in the summer shadowing many kinds of specialties and completed all four years of my school's biomedical sciences program.

I plan to major in Biology, and I am excited to get involved with my local community especially through shadowing in the UAB Health hospital system. I want to get my EMT certification so that I can directly serve my community in that regard and get exposure to real world patient care at the same time. Outside of class I am excited for all the nature that surrounds UAB as well as the active city life that Birmingham presents. I also hope to attend Birmingham Legion games whenever I can. The EMSAP Program excites me because of the mentorship it offers to dive into this field and experience everything I can at UAB.

Hi! My name is Kate Hargrave, and I attended Athens Bible School in Athens, Alabama, where I graduated as valedictorian and was honored to receive Miss ABS while staying involved in leadership, academics, and community service through organizations such as National Beta Club, Athens Mayor’s Youth Commission, Youth Leadership Development Program, and the Athens-Limestone Hospital Ambassadors program. Throughout high school, I pursued opportunities in biotechnology and healthcare through internships with Skyang Bio and the HudsonAlpha Biotech Launch Training Program, where I gained hands-on laboratory experience, designed plasmid vectors, documented experimental procedures, and earned the BACE certification. I was also a frequent volunteer at the Athens Activity Center, assisting senior citizens through recreational activities and daily care. I am actively involved in my church, and in my free time I enjoy playing piano and guitar.

At UAB, I plan to major in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry while pursuing my interest in healthcare and medicine. I am especially excited for EMSAP because it will allow me to build connections with other students, faculty, and mentors early on while being part of a community of students with similar goals.

Hi! My name is Maryam Khan, and I attended LAMP High School in Montgomery, Alabama. In high school, I was involved in many extracurricular activities, including serving as president of my school's speech and debate club and serving as Secretary General of our Model United Nations conference (LIMUN). Additionally, I served in leadership for HOSA, competed in Science Olympiad, and served as the only National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) High School Ambassador in the state of Alabama. I was also a member of several honor societies.

Outside of school, I got involved in volunteering at my local cancer center, where I shadowed oncologists, and attended the GirlUp United Nations Women in Science camp in Kochi, India, my sophomore year. In this opportunity, I was able to serve as 1 of 20 U.S. delegates chosen to attend the overseas STEM program amongst nearly 100 other girls from across the world. I also volunteered and served at many local summer camps in my community. These opportunities, along with many others, allowed me to gain a better understanding of the medical field, as well as the importance of communication and public advocacy in healthcare. In my free time, I enjoy running and binge-watching TV shows. I'm so grateful for this opportunity and excited for what's to come! Go Blazers!

Hi! My name is Rahul Menon, and I’m from Suwanee, Georgia. I attended Lambert High School, where I had the opportunity to serve as the Co-President of the Lambert Student Ambassador Program and Lambert HOSA, the largest HOSA chapter in the world. During my time with the Student Ambassador Program, I led policy change within my county and worked to improve voter registration and turnout efforts. Outside of school, I conducted myeloma research at the Emory Winship Cancer Institute and interned for the Georgia Department of Public Health, focusing on Youth Healthcare Transition efforts. I have also fenced competitively for the last four years. For fun, I love to play basketball and watch the Atlanta Hawks and Falcons. I also love listening to music and hanging out with my dog, Neo.

At UAB, I plan to major in Immunology and minor in Public Health and will be in the Personalized Honors Pathway. I’m excited for the chance to meet new people and learn more about the medical field through EMSAP’s various opportunities. I’m extremely excited to be a part of EMSAP for the next few years and can’t wait for all the experiences ahead!

Hello! My name is Meghana Sappidi, and I am from Franklin, Tennessee. I graduated from Ravenwood High School, where I led a fundraising campaign for Blood Cancer United, won multiple international awards through DECA, and started a community service initiative called Letters for Service—a project that helped students earn volunteer hours by writing letters to residents in local retirement homes.

Throughout high school, I spent time shadowing in local dental and orthodontic offices to learn more about the field and confirm my interest in healthcare. Outside of Ravenwood, I attended the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Integration of Biological and Statistical Sciences at ETSU, where I had the opportunity to participate in research on COVID-19 and experience a college environment. I also learned classical Hindu dance, which has taught me discipline and creativity, and worked as a host at a local Southern restaurant, where I developed strong communication skills and a sense of community.

In my free time, I love to paint, make handmade jewelry, and play beach volleyball with my friends. I am so excited to attend UAB and be a part of the EDSAP program. I plan to major in Immunology and earn a Master’s in Healthcare Management. I am looking forward to meeting new people, getting involved on campus, and taking advantage of all the opportunities UAB has to offer. I can’t wait to begin this next chapter. Go Blazers!

Hi!! My name is Vivian Shi and I’m from Vestavia Hills, Alabama. I recently graduated from Vestavia Hills High School and got to be involved in amazing groups! Throughout four years, I co-founded Culture Club and joined colorguard, becoming Head Captain. I competed in Public Forum Debate and became Captain, where our team won five consecutive state championships and I was the 2026 Varsity PF State Champion. I competed at Nationals last summer and am excited to compete this summer as well! I was a Vestavia Ambassador for two years, where I had the honor of serving as Secretary first and then Head Ambassador. I received the Excellent Ambassador Award and was a Miss Vestavia Nominee.

I was a part of National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Rho Kappa, Science National Honor Society, and Speech and Debate Honor Society. Recently, I became a National Merit Finalist and U.S. Presidential Scholar’s Semifinalist. Beyond school, I gained experience in all levels of UAB’s healthcare system. I was a Teen Volunteer for two summers, serving across UAB departments like Dermatology and Neuroscience, and became a Teen Lead last summer. I volunteered in a cancer research lab to study cancer immunology. I had the opportunity to present at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Conference in Chicago as a student member, solidifying my passion for research. I’ve been able to shadow radiation oncologists and ophthalmologists, whose considerate care defines my motivation. I also volunteered as a Radiation Oncology Accelerated Research (ROAR) Gala volunteer for four years, seeing UAB’s community commitment to advancing medicine.

From the time I’ve called Birmingham home, I’ve seen the overwhelmingly positive impact UAB has through its attentive physician care, leading research, and fundraising efforts. The intersection of my passions, from research to patient-care to public health, align with UAB’s holistic care, and I plan to major in Immunology with a minor in Chemistry and pursue a master’s in Public Health. I’m thrilled to be a part of EMSAP to explore medicine through all these lenses. Goooo Blazers!!!

Hello! My name is Ryaan Singh and I am from Vestavia Hills, Alabama. I recently graduated and will be studying neuroscience at UAB. A lot of my time in high school was spent volunteering at various organizations such as our very own Children’s Hospital of Alabama. Additionally, I was a large part of several organizations such as the ambassador program and the math team. I was also a part of scholar’s bowl and science bowl throughout high school. I also shadowed at many departments of UAB’s hospitals and conducted research at Volker Hall. I served as chaplain of multiple organizations where I gave speeches and organized meetings.

Outside of academics, I played high school and club soccer. I also enjoy playing guitar and about every other sport there is. My favorite activity to do with my friends is watching sports events together. I am extremely excited to be a part of UAB’s EMSAP program and study alongside many others who share my passion for medicine!

Hi! My name is Lily Xie, and I am from Vestavia Hills, AL. I attended Vestavia Hills High School, where I was involved with the Math Team for all four years, the Science Olympiad Team as an event coordinator, and multiple academic honor societies. Outside of school, I was president of the Birmingham Branch of the Alliance of Youth Leaders in the United States, a nonprofit service organization, served on the Junior Advisory Board for the nonprofit Hope for Healing Scars, and volunteered at the McWane Science Center. In my free time, I enjoy working and training at my Taekwondo school as a third-degree black belt, lifting at the gym, watching movies with my friends, and trying new coffee shops downtown.

Completing two years of summer research and shadowing multiple doctors in the Kirklin Clinic solidified my interest in medicine and motivated me to apply to EMSAP. I was drawn to EMSAP because of its focus on bioethics and close-knit community. At UAB, I plan to major in Immunology through the Personalized Honors Program and hope to make a lasting impact at UAB through research and service. I am so excited to join this group of like-minded students who are passionate about healthcare, and I can't wait to grow alongside them! Go Blazers!