For my third gap year, I wanted a program that would give me an experience I couldn't have anywhere else. Through PACaRI, I learned about the operating room environment, saw once-in-a-lifetime procedures performed by world-renowned physicians, and cultivated a deeper understanding of what it means to be a physician-scientist. I was able to work on two different research projects, which will be submitted for publication, and to present my work at a national conference. Our cohort also heard from current medical students and were given individualized advice and guidance on how to craft the best medical school application. I truly believe this experience made me not only a better medical school applicant, but also a better future physician.
Katherine Doucet, PACaRI 2025.Tufts School of Medicine. MD Candidate, Tufts Medical School (class of 2029)
I came into PACaRI with 0 research hours. I have learned how to formally write a research paper, use different hospital and national databases, and analyze data for a manuscript. All of these experiences have provided me with a deep understanding and appreciation for research in the medical field. I now have more than 1,000 hours in research, which I could not have been able to obtain without the program.
Jennyfer Vallejo, PACaRI 2025, Boston University
PACaRI was an incredible internship and the experience feels unmatched. From getting to see complex cases in the ORs to really understanding how anesthesia equipment & anesthesia work, it really paints a picture most people wouldn’t think of when they consider an OR. The anesthesia techs are amazing people and this wouldn’t be the same without them. I’ll hold on to this experience dearly and never forget how much I was able to do here.
Bhavya Salhi, PACaRI Summer 2025, University of Connecticut
Through PACaRI, I had the opportunity to observe complex surgeries, speak with inspiring anesthesiologists, and learn from a variety of workshops. I am deeply grateful for the chance to experience things I never imagined possible during my undergraduate years. This internship gave me greater confidence in my career path and reminded me why I am passionate about medicine.
Tina Wu, PACaRI Summer 2025, Case Western Reserve University
"This role was very exciting, as it allowed me to combine my interests in hands-on technology with clinical care. It was a rewarding experience to work in a fast-paced setting just like the ones I hope to contribute to in the future as a physician."
— Lucy Zhao, PACaRI 2022, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. MD Candidate, Harvard Medical School (Class of 2028)
"The experience showed me what it means to be a physician and how to navigate very delicate and intimate conversations between patients and their families."
— Zain Chaudry, PACaRI 2017. Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont (MD). Anesthesiology Resident, BIDMC (Class of 2028)
“I gained a lot of invaluable experience here: interacting with patients about research, shadowing anesthesiologists and surgeons in the OR, listening engaging lectures from Grand Rounds and intern meetings, and getting the chance to write a manuscript.”
— Hugh Burke, PACaRI 2019, MD Candidate, University of Minnesota Medical School (class of 2025)
“In my work here, I have acquired research skills that will be invaluable not only in medical school but also in my career as a physician.”
— Daniel Snyder, PACaRI 2017. Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sina (MD). Internal Medicine Resident - New York Presbyterian-Columbia University Irving Medical Center
“Thanks to the internship, I am confident that I will be able to bond both my passion for research with my passion for becoming a clinician.”
— Avi Purohit, PACaRI 2016. Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (MD). Pediatrician, Purohit Pediatric Clinic
“My time [in PACaRI] helped shape my career and opened the doors for many opportunities during my time as an undergrad and in preparing for graduate study.”
— Emily Greenwald, PACaRI 2015. PhD Candidate at Stanford University School of Medicine