Lillian Huang, M.S. ‘21, SOM Class of 2026, Finds Purpose Through Patient Care and Research

What inspired you to pursue your degree?

My inspiration began in high school, when I volunteered at a hospital and found myself drawn to conversations with patients and their loved ones. I often stayed late because I appreciated hearing their stories of healing and resilience. This early exposure led me to the premed track and later work as a scribe, consultant, and project manager. Collectively, these experiences connected patient care with a broader understanding of health care systems, solidifying my decision to pursue medicine and help others.

What type of research have you been involved in during your time at NYMC?

I’m fortunate to have engaged in various research projects at New York Medical College (NYMC). During my first-year summer, I joined the Neuroscience Summer Research Program. I also collaborate with Wilbert S. Aronow, M.D., professor of medicine, and William H. Frishman, M.D., chair emeritus and professor of medicine and pharmacology, on cardiology research. Additionally, I contributed to projects about academic burnout and resilience, wellness on campus, and medical student success, some of which were accepted to be presented at the Association of American Medical Colleges and Gold Humanism Honor Society conferences. Finally, this past year, I joined classmates as a Building the Next Generation of Academic Physicians writing fellow, building on my artificial intelligence research with Mill Etienne, M.D. ‘02, M.P.H., vice chancellor, associate dean for student affairs, and professor of neurology and of medicine.  

What has helped motivate you along your educational journey? Have you encountered any challenges along the way?

Having a growth mindset. Medicine is a long and challenging journey, and imposter syndrome can be hard to shake. Over time, I’ve learned to consciously shift that perspective, focusing more on potential and possibility. This outlook has been especially important during personal challenges in medical school, during which I’ve also been fortunate to lean on my mentors and loved ones.

After you graduate, what is your dream career?

I see myself as a leader in academic medicine or health care operations, building on my background in consulting, student government, and health policy. I believe effective systems-level leadership starts at the bedside, grounded in patient careso improvements are informed by real clinical experience. Thus, I’m very excited to train at Boston Medical Center, an institution known for its diversity, innovation, and longstanding commitment to caring for underserved communities.

What made you choose NYMC?

I chose NYMC because of its ambition and commitment to student success. I embraced this as a graduate student here,impressed by how closely faculty and administration worked with students during the pandemic to support our learning and growth. Since then, I’ve seen this commitment reflected in our redesigned preclinical curriculum, expanded clinical affiliates, and wide range of research opportunities and student initiatives.

What has been your favorite aspect of being an NYMC student?

The people! Our medical school classes are large, with more than 200 students per class, and sharing campus with Graduate School of Biomedical Science, School of Health Sciences and Practice. and Touro College of Dental Medicinemakes it easy to constantly meet new people, perspectives, and ideas. I also really value how accessible faculty and leadership are here. Their commitment to engagement is something I’ve seen firsthand in monthly Student Senate meetings, where they are deeply invested in community needs. Overall, I’ve made lifelong friends, mentors, and memories at NYMC!

What faculty member has had the greatest influence on you here?

Juan Cosico, M.D., associate program director and hospitalist of internal medicine from NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan. He was my internal medicine sub-internship attending and often wove his teaching with storytelling and reflections from his own training. Moreover, he always emphasized a broader definition of care, one that extends beyond clinical excellence to include the “small things,” like patients’ grooming, hobbies, and how they spend long hospital days. Dr. Cosico’s compassion shapes the kind of physician I hope to become.    

What advice would you give to incoming students?

First, congratulations and welcome to NYMC! My advice is to try everything. Go on as many side quests as you can, because there is so much to do here. We have more than 100 student clubs—swing by a couple of events! You’ll meet so many faculty—ask them what brought them to NYMC or if they have any projects for you to join. Volunteer more—see what the local community is like. In medicine, our own lived experiences help us better understand and care for the experiences of others.

Outside of your studies, what are your hobbies or interests?

I enjoy language learning and writing. Both let me step into new worlds, whether exploring new ideas or better understanding how others express themselves. They also connect naturally with my part-time job, where I help international students apply to higher education.

Are you a part of any student organizations or interest groups? If so, which ones?

I served on the NYMC SOM Student Senate for all four years of medical school, collaborating with students, faculty, and alumni on initiatives that enrich our community. I also co-founded the STEM Mentorship Club and Clinical Chinese Club. I’ve learned so much about teamwork, mentorship, and diligence through these roles.

What is a fun fact about you?

I type extremely quickly at more than 150 words per minute—it’s no surprise I really enjoyed medical scribing!