2026 Cohort

Jeremiah Alejandro

Callahan Arch

My name is Callahan Arch and I’m from Mandeville, Louisiana. I attended Saint Paul’s high school where I earned National Merit Finalist, ran track and cross country, and also participated in our school’s HOSA club. At the University of Alabama, I plan on majoring in Biology with the McCollough institute, and hope to one day become a cardiologist. I enjoy learning about biomechanics because of how they can help me improve as a runner and how I can use my knowledge to help other people. I’m excited to attend UA, and roll tide!

Asha Arora

My name is Asha Arora, and I graduated from Randolph School in Huntsville, Alabama. During my time in high school, I was a four-year starter on my school’s varsity soccer team, earning All- Metro and All-State honors, and I was also actively involved in Choir and Model UN. I was honored to be named a National Merit Finalist my senior year! This fall, I will be attending the University of Alabama as part of the McCollough Pre-Medical Scholars Program and Witt University Fellows Program. I plan to pursue my interests in public health and policy (focusing on health disparities) as well as American and Southern Studies, before continuing to medical school. I’m so excited for what’s ahead. Roll Tide!

Noah Best

My name is Noah Guibone Best, and I am graduating from Jasper High School. Growing up in Jasper, Alabama, I have dedicated myself to service and leadership through active involvement in organizations such as the National Honor Society and Key Club. As vice president in sophomore year and later president for two consecutive years of HOSA, I initiated successful blood drives with Life South, resulting in 74 donations this year. My experiences leading HOSA have also included participating in conferences, skill-building activities, and competitive events. Most recently, I won the Medical Spelling competition at a state conference and will represent our team this summer at the HOSA International Leadership Conference in Indianapolis. Moreover, I was one of the Alabama Boys State representatives from my school, currently holding 5th in our school ranking, and served as a class Secretary in my junior year. I am also an administrative volunteer with Gentiva Hospice since August of 2025, and shadowed a Nurse Anesthetist the same summer at the Madison Surgery Center for 4.5 hours, which gave me clarity that medicine is the right fit for me. My involvement as an active youth member at my church has brought me meaningful opportunities to give back, like packing hygiene bags and food for the homeless. Recently, I was excited to support RUFF, a non-profit rescuing animal in Walker County, deepening my sense of purpose through service. Listening to music, playing tennis and pickleball, and hanging out with friends are what I do for fun. I intend to major in Chemistry with a concentration in biochemistry, minor in psychology, and ultimately become a cardiologist. My acceptance into the McCollough Pre-med Institute solidified my decision to attend The University of Alabama, and I am looking forward to starting that chapter of my college journey this fall.

Emma Bosch

          My name is Emma Bosch and I’m from Waterford, Wisconsin, where I attended Waterford Union High School and graduated as valedictorian. I am also a National Merit Finalist, among other awards. Next year I will be majoring in biochemistry with minors in IDMD and Spanish. During my time in high school, I was involved in numerous extracurriculars, including being a member of my school’s HOSA leadership team, a founding member of our Academic Decathlon team, a member of National Honors Society, and frequently volunteering throughout the community. Outside of school, I love staying active whether I’m coaching sports at the YMCA, playing on my club volleyball team, or hitting a tennis ball around with my friends. I am currently interested in becoming either an endocrinologist or OBGYN and working with Spanish speaking populations. I cannot wait to begin this next chapter at Alabama and am so excited to be a part of McCollough! Roll Tide!

Madeline Carrico

I’m Madeline Carrico from Franklin, Tennessee. I graduated from Franklin High School summa cum laude as the Salutatorian and a National Merit Finalist. I plan to major in Neuroscience with a double minor in Microbiology and Interdisciplinary Studies of Medicine, and I also hope to participate in the STEM Path to the MBA program.

My dream is to become a pediatric rheumatologist and eventually open my own practice. This ambition stems from my lifelong journey with Rheumatoid Arthritis and a desire to help children like me feel seen and understood.

Throughout high school, I was involved in several organizations, but my proudest achievement was founding The Leos Club, a service organization that partners with the Williamson County Lions Club. I was also active in DECA, serving as the Officer of Business Management and Administration. I placed first in my event in Tennessee two years in a row and attended the International Career Development Conference during both my junior and senior years.

Outside the classroom, I interned for the Arthritis Foundation to help raise funds for nationwide research and awareness. I also confirmed my passion for pediatrics by interning for a local pediatrician during my senior year. Serving my community remains a core value of mine as I enter this new chapter; over the last four years, I’ve served as a small group leader for third graders at my church and organized various volunteer events for my fellow students. I hope to find service opportunities once I begin on campus as well!

Finally, I wouldn’t be who I am today without my faith. I am a Christian and can’t wait to see what the Lord has in store for me at UA. As I step into college I hope to always remember my favorite Bible verse:

“He must become greater; I must become less.” – John 3:30 NIV

I am so excited to be in the McCollough Institute and to get involved on campus! As a Tennessee native, I’m still getting used to saying this, but it’s starting to feel a little more natural so ROLL TIDE!

Annsley Grace Coleman

I am Annsley Coleman from New Albany, MS! Coming from a small town, I’ve always loved staying involved. I spent all four years of high school on the Varsity Cheer Team, and when I wasn’t on the sidelines, I was usually performing in our school musicals. Some of my favorite memories come from being nominated as a Leading Actress in the High School Musical Theater Awards. My heart really belongs to service, and I’ve loved every minute of the 260+ hours I’ve spent volunteering. Whether I’m working with Superdawgs Special Olympics, serving as a VBS instructor, or helping with the Traveling Turkey and Helping Hands projects, I’ve seen firsthand how much a little bit of time can mean to a community. I’ve also had the unique opportunity to serve as the Mississippi Department of Education Alternate Student Representative, and work with the State Superintendent Advisory Committee, which gave me a new perspective on leadership and advocacy.

My path to medicine really clicked during my time as an intern at Le Bonheur. Working in that environment confirmed my dream of becoming a physician, and I’m specifically driven to pursue pediatric oncology or pediatric cardiology. I want to be the kind of doctor who can bridge high-level science with the compassion families need during their toughest moments. I’m heading to Tuscaloosa to major in Chemistry and can’t wait to get started.

Leah Crosby

My name is Leah Crosby, and I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio. I am an Ursuline Academy graduate, and I am excited to be a part of the McCollough Scholars studying Neuroscience this fall! During my time in high school, I played varsity soccer, was an NHS officer, worked extensively with my school’s ambassador organizations, enjoyed leading community service, and became a National Merit Finalist. I have always had an interest in science and medicine, but it was heavily reinforced during my time volunteering at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and participating in Tap Health MD. The ingenuity, care, and collaboration that accompanies solving problems in the medical field is what really draws me to it. I am thrilled to start my journey with this incredible program and go on to medical school after my time at Alabama! Roll Tide!

Bryant Davis

My name is Bryant Davis. I am from Daphne, Alabama, and graduated from Daphne High School through the International Baccalaureate program. While at Daphne High School, I was the captain of the Scholars Bowl team, a delegate and chair of the Baldwin County Model United Nations, and a National Honor Society member. While attending the University of Alabama, I plan to major in biology on the pre-medical track. I was raised in a household with two medical professionals as parents and have been surrounded by the medical world my entire life. I believe that I have been called to serve in the medical field. Not only was I raised around medicine, but I was also raised a devout Alabama fan and have attended games since my youth. I could not be more excited to attend the University of Alabama this year. In my free time, I enjoy watching football, spending time with friends, and finding service opportunities.

Clark Davis

My name is Clark Davis, and I am an incoming freshman from Madison. I graduated from Madison Central High School, where I was a National Merit Finalist and actively involved in both academics and extracurriculars. I served as an officer in Student Government, and I was a member of Beta Club and the National Honor Society. Outside the classroom, I competed in swimming for both my high school team and the MS Makos Swim Team, and I also sailed competitively at the Jackson Yacht Club. These experiences helped me develop discipline and strong teamwork skills. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, camping, and backpacking, and I value opportunities to challenge myself and explore new environments. Currently, I’m majoring in microbiology on a pre-med track. I have a strong interest in pursuing a career in medicine and am honored to be part of the McCullough Institute for Pre-Medical Scholars. I am excited to take advantage of opportunities in research, service, and hands-on learning as I begin my college journey.

Jessica Flowers

Hi! My name is Jessica Flowers, and I graduated from Carmel High School in Carmel, Indiana. I am majoring in Neuroscience with a minor in IDMD on a pre-med track, and am participating in the STEM to MBA program. In high school, I was president and founder of Biochem Club, section leader of Symphony Orchestra, Vice-President of Indy Love For Our Elders, a mentor in United Sound and Unified Science Mentors, a social studies and peer tutor, and a member of HOSA — Future Health Professionals. I also worked at a local cat cafe and as a piano teacher at my own studio. In addition to being a National Merit Semifinalist, I was also named a Distinguished Graduate at my high school. Outside of academics and music, I enjoy reading, playing piano, violin, and guitar, and spending time with friends and family. I also love traveling, listening to music, and playing with my cat, Nova! My interest in neuroscience expanded from witnessing a neurological disorder run untreated in my family to realizing that many patients in need of neurological care don’t have access; I therefore made it my goal to strive to be part of this solution. I’m so excited to explore all the opportunities McCollough and The University of Alabama presents. Roll

Tide!

Sydnee Fry

Hey y’all, my name is Sydnee Fry, and I graduated from Liberty High School in Frisco, Texas. I will be majoring in neuroscience, and I cannot wait to be a part of the incredible program that is the McCollough Pre-Medical Scholars Program, as well as Witt Fellows! My ultimate goal is to attend medical school, become a psychiatrist, and additionally work in healthcare policy to address the many healthcare disparities in underserved communities across the nation. Throughout high school, I was in marching and concert band as an alto saxophone squad leader and principal oboe and English horn player, yearbook editor-in-chief, an NHS officer, a National Merit Commended Scholar, and a participant in the Independent Study & Mentorship program. I also had the opportunity to intern for the Special Needs Offender Program under the Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship Director at UT Southwestern, working with residents and fellows to aid mentally ill patients in the criminal justice system, which furthered my desire to help others and be a light in people’s lives! Outside of school, I work as a buyer for Uptown Cheapskate (shoutout!) and love to read fantasy books, play video games, and listen to indie music! Roll Tide!!

Austin Goodloe

My name is Austin Goodloe, and I am from Louisville, Kentucky, graduating from Trinity High School. I plan to major in neuroscience with minors in Interdisciplinary Studies in Medicine and mathematics as I pursue a pre-med track with the goal of becoming a neurologist. In high school, I served as president of my school’s Math League, Investment Club, and Pre-Med Society, and I was also involved in Beta Club, National Honor Society, baseball, and chess club. I also helped with the finances for the nonprofit Flight Club 502. In my free time, I enjoy playing pickleball and following the stock market. I am excited for the opportunities ahead and grateful to be part of the program. I am thrilled to be here at UA and so thankful to be a part of McCollough, Roll Tide!

Paul Grasse

My name is Paul Grasse. I am from Hortonville, Wisconsin and my goal is to become a surgeon. I am majoring in biology with a minor in interdisciplinary studies in medicine. At sixteen, I earned my National Ski Patrol Outdoor Emergency Care certification, becoming one of the youngest certified patrollers in the country. I also founded my high school’s Medicine and Engineering Club and held four simultaneous presidencies including Student Council and National Honor Society. I was a four-year varsity athlete in football, where I led my graduating class in career points. I was also a varsity athlete and team captain in soccer, as well as a varsity track and field athlete. I competed on a cross-country ski team, contributing to two state championships, and finished the American Birkebeiner, a 53-kilometer cross-country ski marathon, the largest of its kind in North America. I graduated at the top of my class with a 4.0 GPA and earned the AP Scholar with Distinction award. I chose Alabama and McCollough because I wanted a pre-medical community built around the full scope of becoming a physician, and I am looking forward to exploring the research side of medicine. Roll Tide!

Austin Harkins

Hello! My name is Austin Harkins, I’m from Bossier City, Louisiana, and I graduated from Airline High School. I will be majoring in Microbiology. My minors are Interdisciplinary Studies in Medicine and Randall Research Scholars. After college, I may pursue either an MD or PhD (or an MD/PhD). I was named a National Merit Finalist, AP Scholar with Distinction, and was Vice President of Airline High School’s chapter of National Honor Society. In high school, I participated in wet lab research studying cancer immunology for my entire senior year. I was Secretary and Bass Section Leader in the Airline Troubadour Choir and I made it to All-State Choir the last three consecutive years. During my junior and senior years, I had lead roles in my school’s drama club productions. In my spare time I enjoy playing D&D and creating virtual and Lego obstacle courses. I am so excited to get involved at UA and within the McCullough Pre-Medical Scholars!

Gabriella Kedzierski

I’m Ella Kedzierski from Lockport, Illinois. While at Alabama, I plan on majoring in Microbiology on a Pre-PA track with minors in Interdisciplinary Studies of Medicine, Women’s Studies, and Public Policy, and this summer I intend to get my EMT certification. During high school I was the Finance and Fundraising Coordinator of Model UN, Co-Leader of our Science Olympiad team, a member of the Math team, and a club volleyball player. My passion for medicine stems from my interest in biology and desire to improve people’s lives through innovation. I’m so excited to start my journey at Alabama and I’m very grateful for all of the opportunities that are being provided to me!

Julia Kim

Hi, my name is Julia Kim, and I’m from Madison, Mississippi, graduating from Madison Central High School! I’ll be majoring in microbiology on the pre-med track with the goal of becoming a pediatrician.

During high school, I was a clarinetist and section leader in marching and concert band, co-President of the Women Empowerment Club, Secretary of both the National Honor Society and Asian Culture Club, and a member of Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Madison Junior Civitan Club. I was also named a National Merit Finalist and AP Scholar with Distinction. I volunteered at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and interned with the Brain Injury Association of Mississippi, where I really came to appreciate the human and caring side of medicine. Outside of school, I love going on walks, reading on my Kindle, and hanging out with friends and family. I’m so excited for what’s ahead!!

Adrian Lagor

My name is Adrian Lagor, and I am from Annandale, Virginia, graduating from Carter G. Woodson High School. I plan to major in Neuroscience on the pre-med track, with minors in Interdisciplinary Studies in Medicine and through the Randall Research Scholars Program. In high school, I was actively involved in both academics and my community, serving as an officer of the Science National Honor Society and contributing to tutoring and STEM outreach. I was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction and a College Board National Recognition Program awardee, and I earned Virginia state honors for academic excellence and civic engagement. As a certified EMT, I gained hands-on experience assisting with patient intake, monitoring vital signs, and supporting emergency response teams. This experience strengthened my interest in patient care and the real-world impact of medicine. Outside of school, I enjoy community service, traveling, playing piano and golf, and cooking. I am excited to begin my journey at the University of Alabama and to be part of the McCollough Program. Roll Tide!

Daniel Mach

My name is Daniel Mach, and I am from Uxbridge, Massachusetts. I will be majoring in chemistry while pursuing a minor in mathematical statistics. I hope to one day attend medical school and use the skills I learn there to provide life-saving care to trauma patients. In high school, I helped lead my school’s Science Olympiad to our best state placement in team history. Additionally, I worked a part-time job, acquired my EMT-basic certification, and enrolled in a community college to take upper-level math courses not offered by my high school. In my free time, I enjoy reading, training for powerlifting, and golfing. I love learning new things, and I’m sure there will be plenty of opportunities for that at UA. I can’t wait to be a part of the McCullough Institute next fall. Roll Tide! 

Piper Magargee

My name is Piper Magargee, and I graduated from Christ Presbyterian Academy in Nashville, TN. I am majoring in Biology with a minor in Interdisciplinary Pre-Medical Studies, and I am on the pre-med track! During high school, I was involved in softball, soccer, journalism, Science National Honor Society, and a Bible leadership team. I have always been passionate about science and medicine, and I hope to become an ophthalmologist because I love the idea of helping people regain not just their sight, but their independence and confidence. In my free time, I love being outside, hanging out with friends, and spending time with Jesus! I am so excited for this next chapter at UA!

Matthew Mapley

My name is Matthew Mapley and I am from Beavercreek, Ohio. I am majoring in neuroscience and hopefully will go to medical school to become a physician in the future. In my free time, I like to play soccer, lift weights, go camping, and hang out with my friends. 

Maya Marsh

My name is Maya Marsh and I’m from Salt Lake City, Utah. I attended West High School, where I was the class salutatorian and a National Merit Finalist. I’m so excited to be attending the University of Alabama in the McCollough Pre-Medical Scholars Program where I will be double-majoring in biology and piano performance with a minor in Spanish, on my way to becoming an OB/GYN. Throughout my time in high school, I’ve been actively involved in school programs like HOSA and Model UN, but I also participate in service outside of school and even run my own piano studio! I’m looking forward to continue pursuing these interests at a higher level in college, and I’m so excited to be a part of this program! Roll Tide!

Harrison Mayfield

Hi, my name is Harrison Mayfield, and I am from Covington, Louisiana. I graduated from Saint Paul’s School, where I was a four year member of the varsity tennis team and was named student of the year. I was also involved with NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, and HOSA. Outside of school, I have volunteered with Miracle League for the last five years. I also started my own nonprofit fund and junior tennis tournament which donated $32,500 to Miracle League over the last two years. I enjoy playing tennis, working out, and hanging out with friends in my free time. I plan to major in Biology at UA, although I do not yet know what kind of doctor I want to be. I can’t wait to start at Bama and Roll Tide.

Grayson McGee

Hey everyone, I’m Grayson! I’m from Chattanooga, Tennessee, graduating from the STEM School Chattanooga. I’m majoring in biochemistry with a planned minor in creative writing. I’ve always thought the best thing you can do with your life is make a real difference in others’. I plan to do that by going to medical school and finding wherever I can make the best use of my skills, as well as writing stories in my spare time to hopefully inspire people however I can. In high school I’ve been a leading representative in the Student Senate, a member of the exclusive 4k Microscopy Team, a trainer for the D&D club, a member of the NHS, and I’ve been a member of the Chattanooga Boys Choir since third grade. Beyond that, I’ve worked in a bakery (I know they’re basic, but you should really try my chocolate chip cookies!), been really working on my piano skills, and playing games with my friends whenever I can. I’ve devoted myself to trying new things whenever I get the chance and always trying to be a little better today than I was yesterday. Whatever the future holds, I’ll see it through and face it head-on! I’m super excited to be a part of McCollough, so- what is it that everyone says? Oh, right: Roll Tide!

Catherine Merriner

I’m Cate Merriner, and I’m excited for some warmth after living in Alaska my whole life. During high school, I was involved in student government, NHS, volleyball, soccer, and XC skiing. I love reading, hiking, singing, and anything that gets me outside. I’m excited to attend UA in the fall, and I’m looking forward to meeting new people, getting involved on campus, and trying new opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. I’m especially excited to be part of the McCollough Scholars community and to make the most of my time at UA. 

Emma Nichols

Hey y’all! My name is Emma Nichols, and I’m from Shreveport, Louisiana, where I graduated from CE Byrd High School. I am majoring in Biology on the pre-med track with a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies in Medicine through the McCollough Scholars Program. During high school I received the Presidential Service Award, AP Scholar with Distinction Award, and was selected as a Student of the Year Finalist. I was involved in numerous clubs including National Honors Society, Science National Honors Society, HOSA, Beta Club, FCA, and I was Chief Editor of Byrd’s literary magazine Perspectives. Outside of school I love dancing, playing piano, making art, cooking and baking, reading, being outdoors, traveling, and being involved with my church! Throughout the numerous science classes I have taken in high school like my Biotechnology lab, as well as my experience shadowing at Ochsner LSUHS, I have developed a strong passion for science and healthcare. I hope to turn these passions into a career within the pediatric medical field. I am extremely grateful and excited to be a part of the McCollough Scholars program, and I can’t wait to see all of the opportunities it brings. Roll Tide!

Catherine O’Connor

My name is Cate O’Connor and I’m from Honolulu, Hawaii! I graduated from Moanalua High School as a valedictorian. I am a National Merit Finalist and U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidate. I plan to major in Chemistry on the pre-med track.

In high school, I was active in various clubs and orchestra. I was a three-sport varsity athlete competing in cross country, basketball, and track, serving as a team captain in both cross country and track. I served as a delegate to American Legion Auxiliary Hawaii and as a Hawaii Senator for ALA Girls Nation, continuing throughout the year as Vice President for ALA Hawaii Girls State.

In my free time, I enjoy running, hiking, reading, going to the beach, and spending time with friends and family. I love college football and I am so excited to experience my first game at Bryant-Denny Stadium! I look forward to new friendships and getting involved with everything The University of Alabama has to offer, continuing to challenge myself and make a meaningful impact in my community through both science and service. Roll Tide!

Grace Petru

I’m Grace Petru, from Anchorage, Alaska, and I’m honored to be part of the McCollough Scholars Class of 2026. I’m the valedictorian of A.J. Dimond High School and a National Merit Finalist. At Alabama, I plan to major in chemistry and minor in art, with a growing interest in regenerative orthopedics. After tearing my ACL as a varsity athlete, I became fascinated by how we heal, both physically and emotionally. For me, the art of medicine is about seeing the full person, not just a condition.

I’ve had meaningful experiences working with children with disabilities through school programs, and I look forward to continuing similar opportunities while at Alabama. Those experiences have shaped how I think about inclusion, care, and community, and strengthened my desire to stay engaged in service-oriented work.

I’ve also loved being active.  While I played volleyball and soccer in high school, I look forward to joining intramural sports at Alabama. I love spending time outside, getting to know new people, and finding community in every environment. I’m excited to join the McCollough Scholars, to grow my curiosity, and to build a future in patient-centered care.

Everett Pohlgeers

My name is Everett Pohlgeers, and I’m from Ft. Mitchell in Northern Kentucky. I graduated from Beechwood High School. I plan to major in Biology during my time at UA and hope to become an orthopedic surgeon. In high school, I was the Co-President of our HOSA chapter, involved in NHS and Mu Alpha Theta, and took part in a healthcare internship with St. Elizabeth, a regional hospital in my area. It was through this internship that I found my passion for medicine. Outside of school, I enjoy being outdoors, playing and watching sports, fishing, and hunting. I also enjoy playing cards and working out. I’m excited to begin my time at Bama! Roll Tide!

Kuyill “Kavi” Ponnappan

My name is Kavi Ponnappan, and I am from Moorestown, New Jersey. I attended Camden Catholic High School, and I am a National Merit Finalist. At the University of Alabama, I plan to major in Biology while minoring in Interdisciplinary Studies in Medicine and Neuroscience, with a possible music-related minor as well. I currently aspire to become an academic neurosurgeon. Throughout high school I have been involved in leadership, most notably serving as President of National Honor Society, Editor-in-Chief of my school’s literary magazine, and founder of my school’s chapter of Create For Kids. Through my neurosurgical research at Cooper University Hospital, I have worked alongside a neurosurgeon to develop an unprecedented research project that was selected for presentation at the 2026 Safety in Spine Surgery Summit. I also work as a Non-Certified Medical Assistant and have spent several years volunteering with patients living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, experiences that have strengthened my appreciation for empathy and human connection in healthcare. Outside of medicine and academics, I enjoy singing, baking, running, pickup basketball, reading, writing, volunteering, and working as a party princess (character entertainer)! My passion for medicine comes from the way it connects science, compassion, ethics, and lifelong learning into work that can truly impact people’s lives. I am incredibly excited to begin this next chapter as part of the McCollough Program. Roll T

Elijah Prestley

My name is Elijah Prestley, and I am from right here in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. I plan to major in neuroscience with a minor in music, focusing on the cello. I play numerous instruments; piano for 10 years, cello for 7, and guitar for 3. I use my talents faithfully by leading student worship at First Baptist Church Tuscaloosa, where I have led for almost 3 years now. I also play football, soccer, and tennis. In high school, I was a member of National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the orchestra, where I was the principal cellist. I enjoy working out, making music, going to concerts, reading my Bible, and spending quality time with the people I care about. I can’t wait to make the most of my time at Alabama, and Roll Tide!

Alexander Reaume

I’m Alex Reaume from Delafield, Wisconsin, and a graduate of Arrowhead High School. I plan to major in biology with a minor in interdisciplinary pre-medical studies and Chinese as I pursue a career in medicine.  During high school, I was a member of National Honor Society, served as Vice President of the National Chinese Honor Society, and was a HOSA team leader. I was also nominated for the Presidential Scholars Award by the U.S. Department of Education, with my selection supported in part by earning a 36 on the ACT.  Athletically, I competed in varsity swimming, where I won a conference championship in my event and placed at the state championship meet. I also played varsity volleyball and earned the All-State Academic Award.  Outside the classroom and athletics, I worked as a pharmacy technician at my local pharmacy, where I am completing my youth apprenticeship certification. I have also volunteered at hospitals and centers for individuals with developmental disorders, and I had the opportunity to shadow two orthopedic surgeons, which helped solidify my decision to pursue a career in medicine.  In my free time, I enjoy golfing, pickleball, weightlifting, and playing video games.  I am very excited to be part of the McCullough Scholars Program at the University of Alabama—Roll

Ella Sanders

Hi everyone, I’m Ella! I have a passion for healthcare, leadership, and serving my community. My dream is to become a cardiothoracic surgeon, and I’ve loved gaining experience in the medical field through working as a Patient Care Technician and shadowing in local clinics and hospitals. This year I placed 3rd in the PCT event at the HOSA State Leadership Conference, and as HOSA Historian I help with projects like blood drives and fundraising for the National Marrow Donor Program. I’m also involved in the Gulf Shores Junior City Council, where I’ve met with city officials and organized local farmers markets. I’m excited to meet everyone, learn new things, and be a part of the McCollough Institute!

Holland Savage

Hello! My name is Holland Savage. I am graduating from Westminster School at Oak Mountain and plan to major in Biology at UA in the fall. Some of my school involvements include founder and president of the Westminster Service Club, HOSA president and vice president. Outside of school I love to volunteer with special needs ministries like Hand in Hand at my church, Shades Mountain Baptist, and the Bell Center. I enjoy reading, traveling, and cheering on the Tide. I look forward to being a part of this amazing program and Roll Tide! 

Thomas Saylor

My name is Tommy Saylor, and I’m from Meridian, MS. I am graduating from Clarkdale High School where I played football and baseball. I will be majoring in biology, and I am striving to become an orthopedic surgeon. Some of my hobbies include fishing, hunting, and spending time with friends and family.

Maxwell Schultz

Hi! My name is Maxwell Schultz and I am from Mukwonago Wisconsin. I have held a deep passion for science and medicine throughout all of my childhood. I am an anatomage national qualifier and have received multiple other honors from Regional HOSA Competitions. I played club volleyball as well as varsity volleyball at Mukwonago High School where I was the spirit award recipient. I spend a lot of my free time being outside, hanging out with friends and volunteering as a camp counselor. At Alabama I will be majoring in Neuroscience on a pre-med track with the goal of becoming an Emergency Medicine Physician. I am excited to be attending Alabama and for this next chapter in my life. Roll Tide!

Elliot Smith

My name is Elliott Smith (like the musician) and I am from Hoover, Alabama. I plan to major in Spanish and/or Biology on a premedical track. I love all things science, especially space exploration and niche theories about the universe. I have the AP Capstone diploma, am a member of the National Honors Society, Spanish National Honors Society and Mu Alpha Theta. I’ve enjoyed soccer for most of my life and played piano for even longer. I’ve been a diehard Alabama fan from birth and I’m continuing the tradition of my family going to Alabama. I love traveling and have taken plenty of trips to Europe. Currently my plan is to become a radiologist but things can always change. I’m excited to be a part of the McCollough Scholars and will make the most of it! Roll Tide!

Michelle Sobolewski

Hi I’m Michelle and I’m from the suburbs of Chicago! Im excited to be a part of McCollough as well as Randall Research Scholars as I study towards a neuroscience major and math minor on the Pre-Med track. After working in a pharmacy for two years and weekly shadowing at a hospital through my school’s Youth Residency program, I’m hoping to eventually work in academic medicine. During highschool, I was president of my school’s HOSA chapter, board for our student council, played varsity tennis, competed in the math team plus much more and I can’t wait to get involved at UA! I speak Polish and am working towards being trilingual by studying Spanish. In my free time I love being active, travelling, crocheting, and playing piano. Roll tide! 

Peyton Soucy

My name is Peyton Soucy, and I’m from Raleigh, North Carolina. I’m part of both the McCollough Institute and the Randall Research Scholars Program here at UA, and I plan to major in neuroscience. During high school, I was a member of HOSA, the National Honor Society’s Student Advisory Board, and varsity volleyball captain. Outside of school, I served in student leadership at my church, shadowed at my local hospital, and participated in a club volleyball team. I will also be graduating high school with my associate’s degree in science.  I love Jesus, shopping, spending time outdoors, and concerts! I am so excited for my time here at Alabama- Roll Tide!

Sean Walton

My name is Sean Walton, and I am from Round Rock, Texas (Austin suburb), where I graduated from an IB Charter School – Meridian World School. I plan to major in Neuroscience with a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies of Medicine in pursuit of becoming an anesthesiologist. In high school, I held multiple leadership positions within my school in HOSA, Model United Nations, and student government. I was awarded the president’s volunteer service award and named as a National Merit Finalist. Outside of school, I enjoy playing soccer, listening to music, participating in trivia, watching movies, and spending time with my friends. I am very excited to be at Alabama and in the McCollough program!My name is Sean Walton, and I am from Round Rock, Texas (Austin suburb), where I graduated from an IB Charter School – Meridian World School. I plan to major in Neuroscience with a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies of Medicine in pursuit of becoming an anesthesiologist. In high school, I held multiple leadership positions within my school in HOSA, Model United Nations, and student government. I was awarded the president’s volunteer service award and named as a National Merit Finalist. Outside of school, I enjoy playing soccer, listening to music, participating in trivia, watching movies, and spending time with my friends. I am very excited to be at Alabama and in the McCollough program!