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 Contact:
    Admission Coordinator
    Postbaccalaureate
    Premedical Program
    University of Southern California
    College of Letter Arts & Sciences
    CAS 120
    Los Angeles, CA 90089-0151
    Tel: (213) 821-2354

    postbacc@usc.edu

 


 

PPP Students


Justin Griffiths
BSc Mathematics, University of Bristol 2008
M A Childhood Education & Special Education, New York University 2012
UC San Diego School of Medicine, Class of 2021
Hometown: Llandudno, Wales, UK

Why I changed my career (or educational objectives):
I was an elementary school teacher for six years, and for the most part, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. However, after a couple of years teaching fifth grade I began to crave a job that would provide a higher level of intellectual stimulation, while still satisfying my desire to help my community and work closely with people. Medicine seemed to be the perfect fit. After volunteering in the Emergency Department for two years and shadowing a pediatric orthopedist, I was convinced that a career in medicine would provide me with exactly what I wanted from a career.

Why USC?
In order to achieve this goal I began looking for a pre-medical program specifically designed for career changers. USC's post-baccalaureate program seemed to provide a nurturing environment where I could work towards my goal of gaining entrance to medical school alongside a cohort of diverse and talented career changers. Dr. Singer provided excellent mentorship, and the science pre-requisite classes at USC were rigorous and challenging, providing me with excellent preparation to excel on the MCAT.

Favorite Class/Professor at USC:
I thoroughly enjoyed the introductory biology class (BIO 220) taught by Dr. Albert Herrera. He is the finest teacher I have had the pleasure of learning from, and his class was fantastic preparation for the MCAT and for the first year of medical school.

Experiences with medicine
Prior to entering the post-baccalaureate program I volunteered in the Emergency Department and shadowed a physician. While enrolled in the program, I continued my volunteering and also gained three other shadowing positions so that I could begin the process of deciding my specialty. I also engaged in two separate clinical research studies at Children's Hospital and at Keck. During my glide year I became a medical scribe in the Emergency Department.

When I'm not studying or volunteering
I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and kayaking, and a host of sports such as soccer, tennis, and swimming. I also enjoy cooking and exposing myself to new cuisines. I am married and so also enjoy relaxing at home with my wife and two cats.