Lauren West-Livingston, 2012

M.D./Ph.D. Candidate, Wake Forest School of Medicine, The Princeton Review

Professional Background

Professional Background: In addition to working for The Princeton Review currently, I have a long history of tutoring and teaching, including working with America Reads and Counts during college. I have also worked as a research assistant in the Benfey Lab for Molecular Biology, the Rubin Lab for Cognitive Neuroscience, the Emergency Medicine Data Technician Program, Cone Health LeBauer HeartCare, and most recently during my graduate studies with the Center for Teamwork in Research and Interventions to Alleviate Disparities. I have a deep interest and dedication to education and research.

How has being a P&N graduate helped shape your professional success?

Although I was only a minor in psychology, without a doubt the classes I took in P&N and the faculty I worked with left an indelible mark on my path as a physician. I had the opportunity to delve into the scientific basis of issues I'm very passionate about, including mental health, development, and health disparities as they relate to psychology and cognition. My experiences with the P&N program at Duke have inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatry, neurology, or neurosurgery and have given me the introduction and foundation to the fields in which I aspire to practice. Most importantly, the relationships I developed with faculty members while a student and have maintained since graduating still play a large role in my professional success. For example, Dr. Makeba Wilbourn served as a mentor and friend during my time at Duke and is still always available for advice, guidance, and support. I am forever grateful for my experiences and opportunities provided by P&N.

Lauren West-Livingston, 2012