UCLA MD Graduate - USMLE Step 1, Step 2 and MCAT tutor

Alex V.

I’m currently a PGY1 General Surgery resident at NewYork-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. As a first-generation college student and underrepresented minority (URM), I understand the challenges that come with navigating medical training—from pre-clinical coursework to the USMLE exams.

I scored 258 on the USMLE Step 2, and I’m passionate about helping others succeed on both Step 1 and Step 2. I know how overwhelming studying for these exams can feel, especially when you're trying to balance clinical duties, shelf exams, and figuring out the most effective resources. I’ve worked with several students on high-yield strategies, custom study plans, and breaking down difficult concepts across all systems and disciplines—whether it's mastering pathophysiology, interpreting UWorld questions, or reviewing NBME content.

I’ve also served as a tutor and TA during undergrad at UC San Diego for courses such as Human Physiology, Cell Neurobiology, and Biochemistry. I bring that same passion for teaching and clarity to Step prep. My approach is personalized, supportive, and grounded in real experience with what it takes to perform well.

A little more about me: I grew up in California’s Central Valley in a single-parent household. I took four gap years before medical school, conducting research in virology at UPenn, completing a master’s in clinical research at UCSF, and working in a glial biology lab at Stanford. I took a year off to work at the NIH between my third and fourth of med school where I helped develop a novel dendritic cell vaccine for GBM.

If you're studying for Step 1 or Step 2 and want guidance from someone who has recently succeeded on both exams, I’d love to help you build a focused plan and reach your goals. I have a flexible schedule and can work around yours—feel free to reach out!