Steven's Path: From College to Med School

Hello! My name is Steven Nelson. I’m a senior at Swarthmore College, majoring in Psychology with double minors in Black Studies and Biology, on the pre-med track. I’m excited to share that I’m on track to matriculate into the University of Rochester Medical School in August 2026.

I’m humbly asking for assistance to help fund my final year of undergraduate education at Swarthmore.

Throughout college, I’ve dedicated myself not only to my studies but also to my campus community. I serve as a Biology and Chemistry Teaching Assistant and mentor fellow students pursuing pre-med and STEM paths. Outside of academics, I’m active in the volleyball club, connecting with alumni, and advocate for awareness about the unique challenges faced by students of color in higher education.

Research has been a passion of mine since freshman year, when I joined an EEG lab studying brain waves to better understand depression and improve early diagnosis. During my undergraduate summers, I was fortunate to conduct research at Johns Hopkins University’s PCCM (Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine) Program and participate in Howard University’s SHPEP (Summer Health Professions Education Program).

As a first-generation, low-income student, I’ve faced significant obstacles on my journey. I’ve worked multiple campus jobs to support myself and have often had my intelligence questioned, sometimes experiencing microaggressions that made me feel out of place. Yet, my desire to serve others and create compassionate spaces keeps me moving forward.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to pursue higher education and would deeply appreciate any support you can offer. Thank you so much for reading my story and for any help you’re able to give.

Take care,

Steven Nelson