ӰƵ School of Medicine will celebrate graduating students May 14–18, during commencement week. Extensive training, critical hands-on experience and invaluable mentorship have prepared these students to become leaders and innovators in their chosen healthcare professions where they will improve the health of the communities they serve.
Here are just a few stories from the medical school’s graduating students.
Responses have been lightly edited for style and clarity.
Devin Barzallo - Doctor of Medicine
Why did you choose your area of study?
I was drawn to dermatology because of its impact on patients’ lives, particularly in underserved communities where skin conditions are often overlooked. Dermatologic disease can affect not only physical health but also self-esteem, identity and quality of life. I’ve seen how appropriate care can restore confidence and reduce stigma, especially for patients who face barriers to access.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will be completing my internal medicine preliminary year at Advocate Health in Chicago, followed by dermatology residency training at the University of Michigan!
Why did you choose ӰƵ?
I chose ӰƵ School of Medicine because of its flexible curriculum, supportive learning environment and how happy the students were during interview day!
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
Match Day was my favorite day each year!
What advice do you have for students starting the same program?
Enjoy the process! It’s easy to get caught up in the next exam or rotation, but medical school is such a unique time to soak in knowledge and grow into the kind of physician you want to be.
Jessica Chlebowski - Master of Science in Anesthesia
Why did you choose your area of study?
As I progressed through the pre-med curriculum during undergrad, I was drawn to the way organic chemistry, biochemistry and physiology come together to explain complex processes in the human body. This curiosity naturally led me to an interest in anesthesiology, where the science of pharmacology intersects with hands-on patient care. Choosing a career as an anesthesiologist assistant provides the ideal blend of science and patient care, enabling me to apply my medical knowledge and skills while forming meaningful connections in a clinical environment.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be working for East Carolina Anesthesia Associates at WakeMed in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Why did you choose ӰƵ?
I chose ӰƵ's MSA program because of its strong reputation and long-standing history of excellence. I was especially drawn to the program’s track record of producing well-prepared, highly regarded graduates, and I knew I wanted to be one of them! Another factor that stood out to me was the opportunity to train at various program locations, particularly in the diverse city of Washington, D.C., which offers exceptional clinical training experiences.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
I will always treasure the strong relationships I built during the MSA program. The small class size fostered meaningful connections with our teachers, creating many lighthearted moments during some stressful times. I also enjoyed attending the CWRU Alumni Event at an American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants event, especially watching the senior faculty roast!
What advice do you have for students starting the same program?
My biggest piece of advice is to never give up! You'll learn a tremendous amount in a short period, and while expectations will continue to rise, that's completely normal. Stay focused and take it one step at a time—you'll get through it!
Larissa De Souza - Doctor of Medicine
Why did you choose your area of study?
I was drawn to medicine in part because of the profound impact that a connective tissue disease had on my family, both here and in Brazil. As I progressed through medical school, and especially after completing the dermatology elective last summer at University Hospitals, I witnessed the vital role dermatologists play in managing connective tissue diseases and other systemic illnesses. That experience, along with the mentorship I received within the department, solidified my decision to become a dermatologist committed to bringing specialized care to patients who need it most.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m moving to Miami for an intern year and then heading to St. Louis for a dermatology residency at Wash U!
Why did you choose ӰƵ?
I chose CWRU School of Medicine because it offers the freedom and flexibility to pursue individual passions in medicine. For me, that meant developing leadership and advocacy skills, which led to my election as National President of the Latino Medical Student Association, a non-profit with over 200 chapters and thousands of members nationwide. This was one of the most challenging and rewarding roles I have ever held, and I know it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of CWRU faculty or the opportunities provided by a program that values independence and student leadership.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
My favorite memories are the simple moments I shared with my friends at CWRU. Whether we were studying for hours in the IQ rooms, taking lunch breaks or just laughing together, the joy I found in my friendships here made it feel like home.
What advice do you have for students starting the same program?
During a particularly challenging time, one of my best friends at CWRU, Megan (whom I’m super proud to share matched into Neurosurgery), told me: “We never settle. We never settle in life. We never settle in our relationships. And we never settle in our careers.” Once I accepted that Megan was almost always right, I found the courage to dream big and achieve goals—both professional and personal—that once felt impossible.
Megan Loney - Master of Science in Anesthesia
Why did you choose your area of study?
During my undergraduate studies, I had the privilege of learning from an outstanding toxicology professor who sparked my fascination with pharmacology, specifically the mechanisms by which drugs interact with the human body. While I was confident that I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare, I also valued the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Through shadowing experiences and conversations with anesthesia professionals, I discovered the Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant profession. Pursuing a Master of Science in Anesthesia became the ideal path—allowing me to apply my interests in pharmacology and patient care while working as an integral part of the anesthesia care team.
What are your plans after graduation?
Following graduation, I plan to take some time to celebrate this milestone with family and travel a bit to recharge before beginning my professional career. I’m incredibly honored to have accepted a position at University Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio, where I will have the privilege of working alongside some of the very anesthetists who have mentored and trained me throughout my education. I’m excited to continue learning from them as I begin this next chapter in my career.
Why did you choose ӰƵ?
The ӰƵ name carries a strong reputation for academic excellence. What truly stood out to me was the professionalism, passion and dedication demonstrated by the students, faculty and administrators of the Cleveland MSA Program. Their commitment to the field of anesthesia is both inspiring and motivating. I saw in them the kind of provider I aspire to become, and I knew that by joining the CWRU MSA family I would be surrounded by role models who would challenge and support me in reaching that goal.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
One of my most meaningful experiences at CWRU has been attending professional conferences. I had the privilege of attending the annual American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants conference in both Orlando, Florida and Charlotte, North Carolina, the Ohio Society of Anesthesiologists conference in Columbus, Ohio and the American Society of Anesthesiologists conference in Philadelphia. Engaging with these national organizations and participating in academic conferences has been incredibly inspiring. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to connect with leaders and peers across the field of anesthesia, broaden my perspective and grow both personally and professionally through these experiences.
What advice do you have for students starting the same program?
My advice to students entering this program is to control what you can: your preparation, professionalism and attitude. As you learn new and complex skills, there will be moments when success doesn’t come immediately, and setbacks are inevitable. Maintain the framework that your attitude determines your altitude in this program, and showing up with a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic each day will set the foundation for your success.
Margaret (Maggie) Storti - Masters of Science in Public Health Nutrition
Why did you choose your area of study?
I really wanted to bridge the gap between nutrition and medicine and this was one of the first steps to becoming a Registered Dietitian before attending medical school.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am going to Johns Hopkins for my dietetic internship to become a Registered Dietitian. I plan on working for a year while applying to medical school!
Why did you choose ӰƵ?
I was at CWRU for undergrad and it was a no-brainer for me to stay here for my graduate degree. I knew I would have a lot of opportunities and meet amazing people who would help me reach my goals.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
My favorite memory at CWRU is being a member of the women's soccer team and winning our first conference championship!
What advice do you have for students starting the same program?
Put yourself out there and make connections with the faculty and staff. They are amazing and really want you to succeed.