Maggie McMahon, MBS22
What is it like to be a student in the MBS program? Maggie McMahon, MBS22, answers questions about her experience.
Why did you choose to pursue this degree?
"I decided to pursue my MS in Biomedical Sciences (MBS) because I wanted to prove to myself and to future admissions committees that I could handle the rigorous coursework of the first year of medical school. At MBS, I could take classes identical to the M1s at Tufts University School of Medicine and demonstrate that I could excel at these courses. Having now successfully gone through the application cycle for medical school, I know how valuable my recommendations and transcripts were from this program and I can say that is was successful in preparing me for medical school."
What was your experience in the program like?
"I cannot speak highly enough of my time in the MBS program. I was a part of the class that had their entire first year online, and even still, I felt there was such a strong community fostered by the MBS faculty and staff. It was evident from the start of the program that every professor was there because they were passionate about teaching and they wanted to help students as much as possible. This attitude permeated student life as well; all of my classmates constantly shared study materials and answered each other's questions. In MBS, there is a conscious effort to dispel the usual competitiveness of pre-med and to genuinely create an environment where everyone works together."
What is your favorite aspect about the program?
"When I came to MBS, I was really focused on getting the best grades possible and excelling academically. What I was surprised by, and what ultimately became my favorite part of my experience was all of the extra curricular and outside activities that I was able to get involved in through Tufts. In particular, I got involved in the Sharewood Project, Tufts' free student-run clinic. At Sharewood, I volunteered with the dermatology team and also became a Certified Application Counselor to sign up uninsured patients for Medicare/Medicaid. Getting to know other students through this activity, as well as grounding my academics in more patient-focused learning was a great way to get involved. It was a great way to gain leadership skills and I would recommended Sharewood to anyone who is looking for more clinical experiences working with underserved populations."
What is your proudest personal accomplishment while at Tufts?
"In MBS, every class in your first year has a second-year MBS student as a Teaching Assistant (TA) that leads review and tutoring sessions. During my second year, while completing research for my thesis, I also became the physiology TA. I had found the TAs for my classes so helpful, and I thought it was a great way to pay it forward. While it was a lot of work, I was really proud of those small moments when I could see that a student finally had that "A-ha!" moment after I had been tutoring them."
What do you wish to accomplish upon graduation?
"Upon graduation from MBS this spring, I will be attending Tufts University School of Medicine for medical school. I am so excited to continue my medical education at an institution that has already taught me so much!"
What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?
"Tufts is such a great place to learn and grow, both as a student and as a person. Courses are challenging, but you will always be supported by professors, advisors, and your fellow students. At Tufts, you should never be shy to ask a question because everyone is there to help you! Take advantage of the community here and give back to it in whatever ways you can, because coming to Tufts is such an amazing and unique experience. If you are someone who thrives in a collaborative and welcoming environment, then Tufts is the place for you."
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