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Samantha Tamayo

2x

Finalist

Bio

As a student with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, I am driven by service, community, and improving access to healthcare. My academic and personal experiences have shaped a strong passion for science, education, and meaningful service, continually guiding my purpose toward advocating for those most in need. As a bilingual English–Spanish speaker, I hope to help bridge language barriers and better serve diverse and underserved populations through compassionate, patient-centered care. I believe in a healthcare system grounded in compassion, accessibility, and human dignity, and I am committed to advancing that vision through clinical care and advocacy. I approach challenges with resilience and a focus on meaningful outcomes, which has guided my academic path and continued growth. As a Doctor of Optometry student, I aspire not only to provide high-quality patient care, but also to help advance the future of optometry through leadership, education, and service. My ultimate goal is to become a mentor in the field and follow the example of leaders who advocate for public health, expand access to care, and organize impactful medical mission trips.

Education

University of the Incarnate Word

Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
2025 - 2029
  • Majors:
    • Optometry
  • GPA:
    3.5

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Bachelor's degree program
2020 - 2023
  • Majors:
    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
  • GPA:
    3.5

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Optometry

    • Dream career goals:

      Doctor

    • Research Assistant

      The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
      2023 – 20252 years

    Research

    • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other

      The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley — Research Assistant
      2024 – 2025
    • Chemistry

      The Unversity of Texas Rio Grande Valley — Research Assistant
      2023 – 2024

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Pre-Optometry Society — President/Historian
      2022 – 2023
    • Volunteering

      Worlwide As One — English-Spanish Translator
      2024 – 2024

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Entrepreneurship