Kimberly Ferrufino '23
BS Biology, BA Psychology
Pronouns: she/her

How did you hear about Stony Brook University?
I chose to study at Stony Brook because it is a research institution, and I knew I wanted to conduct research during my time as an undergrad. I was also excited that they had a hospital connected with them because I intend on pursuing an MD after I graduate and knew there would be great opportunities available for me as an undergrad.

On her major:
I originally chose Biology because I was fascinated with the material I learned in high school from AP Biology and wanted to become more knowledgeable in that area. In sophomore year I took Introduction to Psychology and gained a great curiosity in the field., I knew I wanted to learn more about it and was interested in the upper-division classes that were offered. As a result, I added psychology as my second major and was engaged in all my classes.

Awards & Accolades:
I am proud to have been a recipient of the Paul Licht Teaching Award in Chemistry and the Ana Marie Torres Scholarship for Hispanic/Latino Students. I received the Upstander Award from the University and have been on the Dean's List  each semester. I will also be graduating with Honors Distinction. 

Plans for post-graduation:
I will be continuing to conduct research for cancer prevention here at Stony Brook and plan to work as a Medical Assistant/Scribe during my gap year before applying to medical school. 

Career Aspirations:
I am working towards becoming a physician and would like to be a professor of medicine, as well as be a mentor to those who are on track to becoming a physician, especially to those who identify as underrepresented minorities.

Clubs and organizations:
On campus, I am a student worker in the Cytology Lab of the University's hospital, a research assistant in the Department of Family, Population & Preventative Medicine addressing cancer racial health disparity, and a resident assistant in Roosevelt Community. I am also the vice president of the Minority Association of Pre-Health Students (MAPS), club coordinator for the American Medical Women's Association chapter at SBU, and a member of Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology. 

Advice for potential Seawolves:
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things. A lot of opportunities can come to you just for getting out there and making connections, which is also important. Making connections by networking can open a door to endless possibilities. 

I want to give the biggest thank you to my family and friends for getting me through these last four years with their endless love and support. I also want to thank Urszula Zalewski, Katie Seitz, Professor Maria Nagan, and Ms. Inel Lewis for their support and belief in my ability to make it to where I am now and to continue to do great things in the future.