From First-generation College Student to MD and Research Fellow at Harvard and Yale: Meet Dr. Taylor, MD!

In a previous blog post titled Why Choose Another Degree, I shared that many of the accomplished individuals offering mentorship through Another Degree didn’t begin in elite schools or follow a straight path to graduate school greatness. This wasn't by design, but it wasn't unexpected. As I said then, "These are mentors who have navigated uncertainty, unfamiliar spaces, non‑linear paths, and steep learning curves." They’ve made hidden curriculums visible, and they’re the guides you want on your side.

Dr. Taylor, MD, MHS offers mentorship through Another Degree for graduate and medical school admissions consulting, research, and career coaching.

That’s certainly true for Dr. Taylor, who went from first-generation college student to MD and MHS, whose journey from metro Detroit and Central Michigan University includes a wealth of public health and biomedical sciences research, fellowships at Harvard Medical School and Yale School of Public Health, and leadership roles in curriculum design and professional development. She brings this breadth of experience to mentees seeking support for medical school admissions and residency applications; graduate school admissions consulting, including academic master's and PhD programs; research and dissertation coaching; along with life coaching and career counseling for graduate and professional school students.

In this interview, as a part of our Meet the Mentors blog series, Dr. Taylor reflects on her educational journey, the relationships that shaped her, and the positive ripple effects mentorship can have on communities.

Dr. Taylor's schedule is limited, but you can book a session with her soon, or join the waitlist to be notified when new dates become available. Learn more about Dr. Taylor through her biography page.

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Q1: Did you always know post-graduate studies and your career path were in your future - or did your path unfold differently?

Dr. Taylor: I knew from early on that I wanted to pursue post-graduate studies, but I imagined it would be a much more linear journey. The twists and turns along the way taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of trusting the process. Each experience, even those that felt like delays or redirections, played a valuable role in shaping where I am today.

Q2: What’s something you loved about your graduate school experience? 

Dr. Taylor: Something I loved most about my professional school experience was the people I met. I was surrounded by passionate, kind and driven individuals who inspired me and became close friends, mentors, and colleagues.

Q3: What’s one insight or piece of advice you wish you had before starting grad school?

Dr. Taylor: One piece of advice I’d give to anyone starting grad school is to slow down and be present. It’s easy to focus on the next exam, rotation, or milestone, but the memories and lessons that stay with you come from being fully engaged in the moment.

Q4: What are you working on right now that excites you - whether in research, work, or creative projects? 

Dr. Taylor: I am excited to focus on my role as a mentor with Another Degree and helping students navigate their paths to graduate and professional programs. I find it incredibly rewarding to support others in reaching their goals and to create spaces where they feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Q5: What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of that wouldn’t show up on your resume or CV? 

Dr. Taylor: I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built throughout my academic and professional journey. These connections with mentors, peers, and mentees have been incredibly meaningful, offering support, inspiration, and collaboration.

Q6: What do you hope mentees take away from working with you?

Dr. Taylor: I hope mentees take away a sense of confidence, clarity, and purpose. I want them to feel supported in navigating challenges, empowered to pursue their goals, and inspired to create opportunities not just for themselves, but for others as well.

Q7: What’s a book, podcast, or resource you often recommend to mentees? 

Dr. Taylor: I often recommend When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. It’s an honest, beautifully written reflection on purpose, empathy, and the human side of medicine that I think every future clinician should read.

Q8: What changes do you hope to see in graduate and professional education over the next decade? 

Dr. Taylor: I hope to see graduate and professional education become more accessible to students from all backgrounds. This includes expanding financial support, mentorship opportunities, and resources to ensure that everyone has the guidance and tools they need to succeed. Making education more inclusive not only benefits individual students but also strengthens the communities and fields they go on to serve.

Q9: What’s your favorite way to relax or recharge?

Dr. Taylor: My favorite way to relax is spending time with family and friends, whether we’re sharing a meal, exploring a new city, or simply unwinding together. I also love reading, traveling and watching romantic comedies.

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Is Dr. Taylor the right mentor for your academic or professional journey? Request to book below!

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