Janet Wangoe, MBS25
What inspired you to pursue your degree, and how has your personal journey shaped your career goals?
My ultimate goal is to be a physician. My first attempt to apply to medical school was unsuccessful. One day, I met a Tufts medical student who recommended the MS in Biomedical Sciences (MBS) program. I applied, hoping it would prepare me to be a better student and candidate for medical school. This experience has delivered that and more. I have taken courses and conducted meaningful research while completing my thesis, which has validated my aspirations and journey.
How have your experiences at Tufts prepared you for your future career?
My experience at Tufts has challenged me to grow in all ways. It has prepared me for the rigor of professional education and lifelong learning. More importantly, this experience helped me build confidence in myself, as a student, and in the path I am on. I will always be grateful for this experience and recognize it as the bridge that moved me from dreaming of being a doctor to taking the first step to make that a reality.
If you could go back to before you started at Tufts and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?
Give yourself some grace and enjoy the process. All of the experiences you have, highs and lows, are molding your character and perspective. Nothing is wasted.
What are your aspirations and goals beyond graduation, both personally and professionally?
I hope to become a physician, use my skills and knowledge to heal patients, and contribute to making healthcare more equitable.
How has the Tufts MBS program provided you with the resources and support needed to pursue your academic goals?
This program provided me with wonderful mentors—Dr. Paul Kwan, Dr. Deeb Salem, and Dr. James Baleja—who guided me through the process of applying to and getting accepted into medical school. The Tufts MBS program offers a rigorous and relevant curriculum taught by dedicated professors. The courses intentionally addressed health disparities, a discipline I am passionate about. The program also fostered collaboration among students, empowering us to learn from one another’s diverse life experiences and backgrounds. These resources and support have helped prepare me for my next chapter at Albany Medical College.
Could you speak to a specific feature of the program that had the biggest impact on your education?
The intentional culture of support that the MBS faculty and program cultivate is amazing. It is genuine and organic. I felt that this community wanted me to succeed and walked with me side by side.