Nora Gibson

UConn School of Medicine

I was born in Santa Monica, California in 1990, and I moved to Hamden, Connecticut in 1995. I lived in Hamden until I was twelve, then moved to Trumbull. I attended American University where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Spanish Language in 2012. In college, I worked for the Latin American Youth Center (LAYC) in Washington, D.C., an organization dedicated to providing education and resources to Latino children and families. I taught reading and math skills to middle-school-aged children who were struggling academically. These students lived in environments hampered by drugs and violence, which contributed to their academic difficulties. From this experience, I gained a greater understanding of the struggles marginalized groups often face. My experience at the LAYC encouraged me to study abroad to improve my Spanish. I studied in Madrid, Spain, where I volunteered at an elementary school teaching English. My language skills have since proved an invaluable resource in connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.

I chose to apply to the Urban Service Track because I feel that community outreach is one of the most important responsibilities I have as a future physician. Urban areas are vitally important in bringing people together to generate new ideas and to celebrate diverse cultures. I hope to reach out to underserved people in urban areas to ensure that they receive the high level of care they deserve.