First-year Medical Student Specializing in Genetics and Molecular Bio

Spencer F.

I’m currently a medical student at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, but my background is in Cell and Molecular Biology. I graduated summa cum laude from Northeastern University with a 3.96 GPA and scored a 519 on the MCAT. Before medical school, I spent a year working full-time in biotech, which, combined with earlier research roles, adds up to over 3,000 hours of research experience. I’ve also logged more than 1,000 hours in clinical settings. Having seen how biology shows up both at the bench and with patients has shaped how I think about teaching.

I’ve been teaching and tutoring for several years in different settings. While at Northeastern, I was selected to instruct a genetics and molecular biology lab, where I worked with undergraduate students, mostly ages 18–22. I helped students learn how to use gene databases, think through experiments, and actually understand the mechanisms behind what they were studying. Alongside that role, I’ve done a lot of one-on-one tutoring, which has taught me quickly that no two students struggle in the same way. Some need things broken down step by step, others need to see the big picture first.

When I tutor, I try to focus less on memorization and more on helping students understand why things work the way they do. That approach is what helped me get through demanding science courses and what I still rely on in medical school. I also spend time helping students figure out how to study more effectively and sustainably, especially if they’re feeling overwhelmed. My goal is to create a low-stress, supportive space where students can ask questions freely and build confidence along with understanding.