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When Aryan arrived at the �鶹��ý, like many first-year students, he faced the challenge of adjusting to a completely new environment. However, instead of navigating it alone, Aryan quickly found purpose and belonging through the�� — a place where his passions for leadership, mentorship, and science came together.

A Foundation of Purpose and Belonging

Aryan, now a first-year medical student, once wore many hats on campus. As a�� and teaching assistant for Organic Chemistry, Aryan led office hours and helped teach complex topics to fellow students. "Helping others understand O-Chem not only reinforced my own learning, but it also [allowed me the] chance to give back and support students who may be struggling, just like I once was," Aryan shared.

His passion for helping others didn’t stop in the classroom. As a�� tutor, Aryan supported students from all backgrounds, helping them build confidence and clarity in their writing. “It’s empowering to see someone find their voice, especially when they walk in unsure of their skills,” Aryan explained.

Mentoring and Empowering Others Through Leadership

One of the roles that most shaped Aryan’s college experience was serving as a�� In this leadership position, Aryan guided a small group of first-year Franke Honors students, helping them transition to college life. “Being a PATH mentor gave me a deeper understanding of the Franke Honors College. I got to connect students to opportunities — academic and extracurricular — and show them that everyone’s trying to find their place here, just like they are.”

That sense of belonging is something Aryan emphasizes towards incoming and prospective students, especially those who are first-generation or navigating college independently. “My biggest piece of advice is to not be afraid to seek out community. There are so many ways to find your people — through your major, clubs, hobbies, or even the��. I met some of my closest friends there during my first year.”

Building Community and Preparing for the Future

In addition to his academic support roles, Aryan was deeply involved in both hands-on medical training and the��. Through the �鶹��ý��, he practiced his clinical skills with high-fidelity simulators, which have proven to be an invaluable part of his journey toward a career in medicine. "It makes everything feel more real and reminds me why I’m here," Aryan shared. Simultaneously, his involvement in HEAP — a selective pathway to medical school — was a defining aspect of his Franke Honors College experience. “HEAP took a lot of pressure off. Knowing I was part of a cohort with a shared goal gave me space to grow academically and personally without the added stress of traditional pre-med competition.”

Aryan's story is one of many that can attest to how the Franke Honors College experience is shaped by the people you meet and the opportunities you embrace. “There’s something for everyone in Franke Honors. It’s a place where you can truly make your experience your own — academically, socially, and professionally.”