Alex Kim

Rice University

Passionate About:

Hello! My name is Alex Kim, and I am currently a sophomore at Rice University, pursuing a B.A. in Cognitive Sciences with a specialization in Neuroscience. As a pre-medical student, my academic focus lies in exploring the intricate connections between the mind, brain function, and cognitive processes, with a growing interest in how these areas relate to disease and medical applications.

Currently, I am conducting research at the Ma Lab within the Bioscience Research Collaborative (BRC), where I focus on glycoRNA’s role in disease identification and treatment. This work has strengthened my proficiency in complex lab techniques, including cell culture, RNA extraction, and Western/Northern blotting, while also honing my abilities in data analysis and scientific communication through active journal club participation. I am passionate about sharing knowledge, supporting new team members, and fostering a collaborative research environment.

I am involved in several campus organizations, including the Rice PreMed Society and the Omega Psi Cognitive Science Honors Society. I hold leadership roles as Vice President and Director of Operations for Rice SPLASH, an educational outreach initiative that engages young learners, and I am a Co-Event Planner for Omega Psi. Outside of academics and research, I volunteer with Music MDs, perform for hospital patients and nursing home residents, and participate in the Alzheimer’s Buddies program. I am passionate about global health, and I will be interning in Guatemala next summer through Rice’s VAW Medical Program to gain hands-on experience in patient care. I am also going to take UNIV 250 to become a Rice Health Advisor for Lovett College, and I am going to take EMSP 281 to earn my EMT certification!

Feel free to contact me at ak205@rice.edu!

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$

400

Fundraised

1

Initiatives

Highlighted Initiative

Rice University Medical Internship to Guatemala, May 2025



Alex's Message

I want to thank you for your contribution to my Medical Outreach trip to Guatemala in May 2025. By setting up mobile clinics and having easy access to essential medications and supplies during our trip, we hope to alleviate the suffering many endure in poorer areas. Every donation gets us one step closer to making this kind of difference in the community, and I truly appreciate your generosity.

Founded in 2011, the VAW Medical Outreach program was initiated in Guatemala with fifteen student interns. During the first trip alone, the students were able to help over 500 patients who otherwise would not have been able to receive medical treatment. Since its origin, VAW has expanded to include over 700 student interns annually and has provided services in Guatemala, Albania, the Dominican Republic, Panama, and Guatemala, treating well over 30,000 individuals. The considerable impact this organization makes would not be feasible without the kindness of donors like you.

The growth and impact this organization has on people worldwide would be impossible without donations from fundraising. I thank you for your support and hope you continue supporting VAW in our endeavor to positively impact our world, one patient at a time.

Sincerely,

Alex Kim
VAW Global Health Alliances Rice Chapter

Volunteer Activity Description

Join the Rice University chapter as they lead a Medical Outreach Internship to Guatemala this upcoming Summer! interns will work in mobile medical clinics, where they will have the opportunity to intake patients, conduct public health surveys, take vitals, shadow local physicians, work in the pharmacy, teach education classes, and much more! If you’re interested in joining, contact us for more information!

VAW Global at Rice University will be opening up mobile medical clinics for local communities during their time in Guatemala.

One of the most exciting and important parts of interning with VAW Global is bringing medication to the less fortunate. In 2023, VAW Global treated over 17,500 patients and we aspire to treat over 20,000 in 2024! One of the things that make our mobile clinics unique is that we not only triage and diagnose patients, but also provide them with the basic medications needed. Fundraising for medications is a huge part of creating a successful mobile clinic to help the local communities with effective care.

**Note: airfare is not included

16% Complete (success)
$400.00

of $2,395.00

in donations needed to reach the Initiative Goal


141

Days

To reach Initiative Goal

100% Complete (success)
25

of 18

volunteers needed to reach the Initiative Goal


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Joshua Thompson donated $30.0000 to Alex 34 days ago
Tori Xiao donated $60.0000 to Alex 43 days ago
Andrew Seo donated $50.0000 to Alex 61 days ago
Andrea D donated $10.0000 to Alex 62 days ago
Lingling Yan donated $30.0000 to Alex 62 days ago
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Date Initiative Name Donation Progress
May 15 Rice University Medical Internship to Guatemala, May 2025
16% Complete