UHP

Nura Salem

Avery Cook-Porter

My UHP experience in five words

Challenging, eye-opening, supportive, creative, meaningful

Why UHP is for me

UHP is for me because it lets me explore what I’m passionate about in a deeper and more intentional way. It’s not just about getting good grades. It’s about growing as a person, leader, and future healthcare professional. I also love how flexible it is because I’ve been able to connect my interests in medicine, public health, and community work through honors experiences that actually matter to me. UHP gives me space to reflect, try new things, and connect with people who also care about making a difference.

The honors experience that made the biggest impact on me

I'd say that the pre-approved experience with the biggest impact on me was my study abroad in Lisbon through the Atlantis program. I got to shadow doctors at one of Portugal’s biggest hospitals and learn how their healthcare system works, and I also got the opportunity to gain more exposure to Portuguese culture and customs. It really opened my eyes to how the environment, policy, and culture of an area affect health. That trip made me think differently about the kind of doctor I want to be by pushing me to care more about health equity and to bring what I learned back to my community.

If I could go back in time and give myself one piece of advice

Don’t be afraid to speak up or try something new, everyone’s figuring it out just like you are. You belong here, and you have something valuable to offer.

What I'm most looking forward to this year

I’m really excited to get more involved on campus and connect with other UHP students. I’m also looking forward to doing more with my research and growing through new experiences and leadership roles.