“Even though UCSF was my first choice for medical school, the decision to come here was a difficult one. I was raised in an Iranian-American, Jewish community and grew up attending all-girl Orthodox schools.
“Becoming more aware and appreciative of the beauty in nature has been one of my favorite things about moving to California. On every trip I tell myself I'm going to get outside more.
"The foggy summer in the Sunset was a difficult transition for me at first. I felt completely overwhelmed adjusting to the city and academics. It wasn't long before the fog cleared, and I met and fell in love with my boyfriend Prince.
“In addition to the challenge of learning how to teach, I went through an identity crisis. I had to go from being a carefree college student to a responsible role model, and I was woefully unprepared.
I think it can be hard to strike a balance between being ambitious in one's chosen profession, while also being cognizant of tending to other areas of life.
"It all started 10 years ago. I was a dental tech, but had to stop when I got into a car accident. I started making jewelry during my time on disability and I made so much I didn't know what to do with it.
