UT MSA Students

UT MSA Class of 2026

Selina Alvarado

I was born and raised in Stephenville, Texas where I raise sheep with my family. Aside from ranch life, I love running and the creative outlet of nail art. I attended Tarleton State University for my undergraduate degree and conducted a variety of virology research projects, including research with bacteriophages. I graduated in Biomedical Science in 2023 and began scribing for ER physicians to acquire medical experience. An academic advisor at my university informed me of this profession and as I continued to research and shadow AAs, I knew this was the career for me. I enjoy working as a team and hope to impact people's lives by providing the best patient care and contributing to others’ learning experience. I am beyond thrilled to be part of the first matriculating class at UTHealth Houston and am ecstatic to begin this new endeavor!

Ashley Baker

I was raised in the robust culture of New Orleans, Louisiana. Relocated during Hurricane Katrina, I eventually secured my home in Pearland, Texas. I have a BS in Chemistry from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have served as a Certified Anesthesia Technician for 6+ years at both Level I trauma centers located in Houston's Texas Medical Center. I enjoy quality time with my three children, convening with friends, jewelry making, and rollercoaster thrill-seeking adventures with my mother and sisters.

Alexa Calleja

My name is Alexa Calleja, originally from San Diego, California, but I grew up in Edinburg, Texas. After completing my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at The University of Texas at Austin in 2022, I pursued further education, earning a Master of Science in Medical Science from Baylor University in 2024. Prior to entering the UT MSA program, I dedicated two years to teaching high school mathematics (Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Precalculus). Outside of academics, I love outdoor adventures with my husband and our golden doodle, Cholula, enjoy weight training, and serving at my local church. Fun Fact: Spanish is my native tongue; I picked up English during prekindergarten to connect with others.

Mandy Cao

I am a first generation Vietnamese-American born and raised in Houston. I went to the University of Houston where I graduated with a degree in Management Information Systems and a minor in Biology (Go Coogs!). My diverse experiences include roles as a teacher assistant, research assistant in a fly lab, optometric technician, and medical assistant at a dermatology office. Outside of work, I'm a bit of a serial hobbyist, a jack of all trades some might say. Some of my hobbies include going on hikes, traveling, playing pickleball, binge-watching TV shows, and exploring Houston's food scene. Fun fact: I make charcuterie boards as a side business.

Aubrey Dauria

Originally from Plano, Texas, I commenced my undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi in August 2020. By age 12, I had self-published a novel, and by 16, an award-winning poetry anthology. I founded and manage my own online store where I specialize in a variety of art forms, including poetry, epoxy resin, crochet, sewing, color-changing creations and much more. In 2021, I embarked on a research career in a biogeochemical laboratory, later transitioning to
neuroscience, while also working as a medical scribe in internal medicine. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences in December 2022. I am honored to be part of this cohort and look forward to contributing to the advancement of Texas Anesthesiology Assistants!

Yla Do

I was born in Vietnam but raised in Houston, Texas. I pursued my Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from UT Austin and graduated in May 2022. Since my senior year, I've worked as a general dermatology Medical Assistant. After returning to Houston, I transitioned to work in cosmetic, laser, and surgical dermatology at the TMC. In my free time, I enjoy listening to lofi music, reading, and engaging in DIY projects such as crafting pipe cleaner flowers. Recently, I've discovered my new hobbies including collecting POP MART figures and Labubu dolls—specifically from the Monsters Exciting Macarons Series—and vintage digital cameras. I also love exploring new foods and coffee shops, so I’ve made it my mission to try at least one new restaurant every month! I'm honored to be a part of the inaugural class of 2026 and excited to embark on this new journey with my amazing cohort!

Katelyn Dykas

I am a lifelong Houston native and earned my Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Houston in May 2022. At UH, I served as a director of a summer STEM camp for girls, learned abroad in Scotland & Wales, and I was a resident advisor. Before joining UTHealth’s MSA program, I worked in industry as a production engineer at a polypropylene plant and later as a technical support engineer for a chemical process simulation company. My childhood medical experiences made me interested in medication mechanisms and production, which lead me to study chemical engineering. I’m so excited to pursue the CAA profession because it perfectly suits my technical interests and passion for serving others! In my free time, I really enjoy working out, exploring new food spots in Houston, and spending time with my friends and my two cats.

Brianna Greenberg

Hello! My name is Brianna Greenberg, and I am from Tomball, Texas. In 2021, I graduated from University of Texas at Austin with a BS in Public Health and specialization in Health Policy and Management. Afterwards, I worked as a consultant for a popular healthcare software company. While I really enjoyed getting to travel and connect with my clients, I am eager to get back to my roots of providing patient care and serving the Houston community. I am pursuing the AA profession, because I want to provide my patients with the same level of comfort that my father received throughout his cardiac surgeries. In my free time, I enjoy trying new hobbies. My latest interests have been scrapbooking and water color painting. You can also find me at hot yoga or trying local Houston restaurants and coffee shops.

Kenda Huneiti

My name is Kenda Huneiti, and I am a native Houstonian. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston, and always aspired to pursue a higher degree and further my career in the healthcare field. Previously, I’ve gained valuable experience in various healthcare roles. I worked as a Medical Assistant at a Cardiology clinic, conducted genetic research at Baylor College of Medicine- where I first got exposure in working with anesthesia, and was a medical scribe at Memorial Hermann. I also got my real estate license during the peak of COVID. My current favorite hobbies include pottery, playing tennis, and finding the best coffee shops in Houston. A noteworthy interesting fact about myself is that I have passed level 2,000 on candy crush. I am eager to get back to school and start building my career in anesthesia.

Samuel Lam

I'm a Florida native, raised in the vibrant community of Miami. I enjoy traveling as well as exploring the great outdoors, especially hiking. My fascination with anesthesia sparked when I shadowed in the OR, and I instantly fell in love with the profession. Now, as I begin this new chapter at UTHealth Houston, I'm excited to merge my passion for anesthesia with my enthusiasm for learning. I am eager to immerse myself in Houston's diverse culture, and to contribute and be a part of the inaugural class

Min Lee

I'm Min Lee, originally from Dothan, Alabama. I graduated from the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in biology in 2017. Postgraduation, I've been sharing my passion by teaching and operating my martial arts studios. I'm thrilled to embark on a new adventure, pursuing a Master of Science in Anesthesia at the University of Texas, Houston. I'm drawn by their stellar reputation for producing top-tier medical professionals and the unique opportunity to blend my love for helping others while growing as a person. In my free time, I enjoy teaching and practicing martial arts, staying active through various sports and gym sessions, and exploring new places with friends and family. An interesting fact about me is that I hold a 5th-degree black belt and an international certification as a Taekwondo instructor.

Justin Lewis

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, I pursued my undergraduate studies at Texas Tech University, majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. After earning my Bachelor's degree, I continued my education at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, where I obtained a Master's degree in Biological Sciences.
Before joining the UTHealth Houston MSA program, I worked as a Research Assistant in the Pediatric Surgery Department at UTHealth Houston. My focus was on developing regenerative medicine solutions for intestinal failure, including tissue-engineered intestines and cell-based therapies. I have a strong passion for day trading and analyzing the financial markets, particularly focusing on stocks and indices. In my free time, I enjoy exploring Houston’s diverse parks and staying active by participating in my local running club. One interesting fact about me is that I'm a devoted Houston Texans football fan! I've attended every home game since I was 6 years old.

Rachael Lilly

Hello! My name is Rachael Lilly and I grew up in Southlake, Texas. I went to The University of Alabama where I obtained my B.S. in biology as well as my MBA with a concentration in data analytics. Before starting UTHealth’s MSA program, I worked as a medical assistant at a dermatology clinic, a research assistant, a dental assistant, and a veterinary technician. I have always had a passion for healthcare and I am so excited to continue my education to become a certified anesthesiologist assistant, which is my dream career. In my free time, I enjoy reading, cooking, working out, and trying new restaurants with friends/family. An interesting fact about me is that my data analytics group placed as a top ten team in the world for the 2023 SAS Curiosity Cup Competition for our statistical models in determining red wine quality.

Lily Lozano

Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, I studied at the University of Texas at Austin and completed my Bachelor of Science in Biology. When I learned about and researched the CAA profession, I knew it would be the perfect match for me. Before starting the program, I’ve been working as a medical assistant at a local hospital’s ENT clinic where I’ve been able to perform hearing exams to patients ranging from newborns to geriatric patients, help care for the special needs and deaf and hard of hearing population, and experience the intersection of anesthesia and a subspecialty. Outside of academics, I love creating embroidery art projects, going to concerts, and enjoying all things coffee. I’m excited to attend the UT MSA program and am forever grateful for this opportunity!

Mckinsey Maddox

My name is Mckinsey and I am originally from Dallas, TX. I attended Arizona State University, where I was a collegiate athlete and graduated with honors with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. During this time, I had the opportunity to briefly live in Peru, where I studied ethics in healthcare and gained valuable perspective on global health challenges. After graduating, I moved to Houston where I have spent the last five years working as an RN in an Advanced Heart Failure ICU at the Texas Medical Center. I am proud of my work in the ICU and have enjoyed mentoring and precepting young nurses entering their career, but my passion for patient care in the ICU has driven me to pursue further study in anesthesia. In my free time, I enjoy all things active and outdoors, fitness, hiking, and skiing in the winter. I’m excited to embark on this next step in my journey, and I am thrilled to continue my education at UTHealth Houston!

Bijitha Mathew

I am a native Houstonian and graduated from the University of Houston with a B.S. in Biology, a minor in Chemistry, and a teachHOUSTON capstone. During college, I was involved in clinical and lab research, served on a medical mission trip, and volunteered as a Crisis Counselor and in the Emergency Department. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic during undergrad, I immersed myself in the classroom and later taught ninth-grade Biology at my alma mater! Additionally, I was an Emergency Room Scribe. These experiences strengthened my interest in education, advocacy, and service. After shadowing, a career in anesthesia felt like the perfect fit due to the diverse cases in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, and the privilege of offering safe, efficient care and comfort to someone at their most vulnerable. In my free time I like to spend time with loved ones, try different dance styles, travel, and try new food!

Joel Mathew

I graduated from Houston Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in psychology. Growing up, I appreciated the diversity my skills behind the scenes offered in various industries, including my parents’ non-profit, my local church, and volunteering as a Film Manager for North Shore High School Football. Through athletic scholarship, I filmed Division 1 Collegiate Football, continuing my passion for film. My time in the sports industry expanded my medical exposure, from Injury Prevention Tracking with the NFL and the Carolina Panthers to outpatient medicine as a Dietetics Intern with Rice University Sports Medicine. These experiences fueled my curiosity, leading to extensive shadowing in inpatient and surgical settings. As an incoming UT MSA student, I am looking forward to transitioning from 'behind the scenes' to 'behind the curtain.' In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, history, reading, and learning about artificial intelligence.

Hannah Mathews

Hi, my name is Hannah! I was born and raised in New York and I moved to San Diego back in 2017. I went to a small Christian college in San Diego called Point Loma Nazarene University. I’ve always enjoyed volunteering, which started with serving in churches and has continued over the years with volunteering at hospitals, libraries, homeless ministries, the American Red Cross, and other organizations. My parents are both medical professionals, so I’ve been exposed to the medical field from a young age. Ever since I was little I have been interested in doing art, crocheting, and making things with my hands, such as jewelry, origami, and clay figurines. More recently I have been passionate about event planning. I’ve helped plan, organize, set up, and decorate numerous events over the past decade. I’m excited to begin this new chapter in my life and I can’t wait for classes to start!

Nathan Mathiyakom

Born and raised in Los Angeles, I’m a proud first-generation college graduate with a bachelor’s in biology from UCLA. Prior to pursuing my master’s in anesthesia, I was attending medical school where I completed nearly 2 years before ultimately withdrawing due to declining health struggles. I have since undergone a life-changing surgery and focused on healing during my time away from academics. I can confidently say that I am in a much better condition now and am thrilled to be provided with the opportunity of being part of UT MSA inaugural class. In my leisure time, I enjoy taking care of my houseplants and cats, lifting weights at the gym, exploring the outdoors, and eating delicious foods (Favorite cuisines include: Thai, Korean, and Chinese). Some interesting facts about me are that I played the drums for a Christian worship team for many years and I have a fraternal twin brother.

Taylor Myer

Hi, my name is Taylor Myer, and I grew up in the rural town of Magnolia. I began my undergraduate education at Lone Star College and continued my education at Rice University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Cell Biology and Genetics in May 2023. Since graduating, I have worked as an elementary school tutor. Teaching is a passion of mine, and I enjoy contributing to the growth of my students. During my free time, I enjoy training horses in dressage and playing disc golf with my husband. I am excited to be part of the inaugural class of this program and aim to help build a community within this cohort while also setting the standard high for the CAAs produced here. My ultimate goal is to provide comfort and care at every step of the way for my patients throughout their healthcare journey.

Jessica Nguyen

I was born and raised in Dallas, TX, and I graduated from the University of Houston in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and minors in Health and Psychology. Growing up I was always interested in science and wanted to pursue a career in the healthcare field. I found that this profession aligns perfectly with my career goals and aspirations: to alleviate patient pain and simultaneously provide comfort to their families. Prior to this, I had experience working as a pharmacy technician and had an internship at a pain management clinic. In my free time, I enjoy playing the guitar and dancing. I hope these creative outlets help balance the academic rigor of this program. I’m very excited and honored to be part of the inaugural class of the UT MSA program and can’t wait to become an excellent CAA.

Gaby Padilla

Born and raised in Katy, Texas, I graduated from Stetson University where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and was on the women’s soccer team for division I collegiate soccer. While at Stetson, I was an anatomy & physiology tutor, volunteered at Florida cancer specialists, and was a youth soccer coach at the local soccer club. In my free time I enjoy reading, cooking & trying new recipes, going to the beach, and working out. I currently work as a sports medicine assistant at an athletic training center for college athletes. My interest in anesthesia took place after my anatomy & physiology classes revealed the intricateness of the human body and how its structures function together. I love Houston for its diversity and kindness and I am so excited for the opportunity to be a part of the inaugural class and serve this community.

Sabrina Rolandelli

I grew up in Frisco, TX, a suburb of Dallas. I attended Texas A&M University, where I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Psychology. After graduating, I worked at an orthopedic clinic as a medical assistant and scribe. I recently took on a second, fun job as a Ferris wheel attendant at my favorite sporting goods store, Scheels. In my free time, I enjoy going on long-distance runs to explore nature and listen to podcasts. A fun fact about myself is that I won first place in my age and gender group in the 2017 BMW Dallas Marathon. I now take on shorter running distances in local running groups and partake in being a foodie, with my all-time favorite food being sushi! I am excited to be moving to Houston and to be given the opportunity to partake in the inaugural class!

Marcy Samadi

I was raised in Los Angeles, California by Filipino-Persian immigrant parents. I attended my local community college before graduating from San Jose State University with a Forensic Biology degree. While an undergraduate, I was a coding tutor for AmeriCorps and after university became a medical assistant at a family practice. Some of my hobbies include, evidently, watching true crime documentaries, reading, and playing piano. Fun fact about me is that I was born on a small island in the Marianas!

Mitch Shaffner

I have been working in the operating room as a surgical tech for nearly ten years. My introduction to the medical field was by watching the show Grey’s Anatomy on tv and deciding that the operating room would be a fun and exciting place to work. In the time that I have been working and gaining knowledge of the ins and out of the medical field, I felt as though I was meant to do more than my current role in the operating room. One of the anesthesiologists I work with mentioned to me an exciting new program that was quickly becoming very much in demand, and that role is the anesthesiologist assistant. That is what led me to being a part of this program and I could not be more thrilled to be a part of this group.

Erick Shoga

I grew up in Missouri City, TX and studied Biomedical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. I graduated with my Bachelor’s and Master’s as part of a 5-year integrated program and briefly worked in R&D at a cultivated meat company. After learning about the AA pathway and realizing that I wanted to be in a career where I could directly see the impact that I’m making on people, I applied to UTHealth Houston's MSA program and am excited to return to Houston and be closer to my friends and family. In my free time I enjoy watching TV shows/movies, playing the ukulele, reading, and studying Japanese. An interesting fact about me is that I can play Bohemian Rhapsody fingerstyle on the ukulele.

Malisa Sihachak

Hello, I am Malisa Sihachak from Jacksonville, Florida. I am from an immigrant family who immersed me in both Lao and Filipino culture. I was raised by my loving grandma who inspired my passion for geriatric care. I went to the University of Florida, graduating with my Bachelor's degree in Biology in 2023. During this time I worked with Dr. Mark Lewis’s psychology research lab and Dr. Tanya Koropeckyj-Cox for sociology research. I also volunteered with UF Shands Hospital, where I was company to elderly patients. Following this passion for geriatric care, I worked as a medical assistant for North Florida Integrative medicine from 2023-2024. I was able to learn more about the medical field and solidify my passion for anesthesia and critical care, leading me to UTHealth Houston's inaugural MSA class. I enjoy eating new foods, gardening, and gaming.

Megan Staats

My name is Megan Staats and I was born and raised just south of Houston in League City. My passion for patient care began at an early age and continued through college at Texas A&M University, where I majored in Biology and minored in Psychology. Throughout my undergraduate years I was captivated by the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the human body. I got to use the information I was learning in the classroom to work as a medical assistant, caregiver, and obtain my EMT license. These experiences ignited my passion for patient care, fueling my desire to make an impact in patient’s lives. In my free time I love to bake anything sourdough, exercise, and spend time with friends and family. I am so grateful and excited to be a part of the inaugural class at UTHealth Houston to become the best Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant I can be.

Yuxi Sun

I was born and raised in China before embarking on my academic journey in the United States. As an international student, I attended East Tennessee State University for my bachelor’s degree and University of Alabama at Birmingham for my PhD majoring in biomedical engineering. After graduating, I became a postdoctoral fellow to study the sexual dimorphism of skeletal stem cells. Since a young age, I’ve held a deep fascination with medicine, which initially propelled me toward a career in scientific research with the goal of enhancing medical practices with science. However, over the years, I feel compelled to transition into a role where I can directly impact patient care. I am drawn to the field of anesthesia due to its critical role in patient care and its direct impact on treatment outcomes. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to prosper in the role of anesthesiologist assistant.

Keyona Taylor

I’m Keyona! I've lived in quite a few places - Germany, South Korea, El Paso, and Austin (where I became a Longhorn), but I consider Houston home. My passion for healthcare started early - I had surgeries at a young age that inspired me to become a physical therapist, and now pursue a career in anesthesia. Some of my interests include going on walks with my furbaby Myles, traveling, and trying new things/restaurants.

Leslie Tran

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas to Vietnamese immigrant parents. In middle school, I found my passion in healthcare, stemming from my fascination for life sciences and eagerness to help others unconditionally. I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Houston with minors in Public Health and Psychology. I spent most of my undergraduate years working as an optometric technician to pursue optometry school, and in the process discovered anesthesia. After graduation, I continued to work at the optometry clinic while shadowing various healthcare providers. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, trying new foods, and crocheting. The hardest project that I ever crocheted was a sweater with braids; it took me a total of four attempts to get it right. I also enjoy collecting blind box figures called Smiskis and I have collected 56 out of 105 possible figures.

Anabel Varghese

Houston has been my home for essentially my entire life, for which I am grateful due to its abundance of cultures. My interest in the human body at a molecular level stemmed from my mother bringing her nursing knowledge home, and it extended to receiving my Bachelor’s degree in Biology at the University of St. Thomas. My undergraduate years were primarily spent as an ER scribe and as Secretary of my university’s Doctors Without Borders chapter. I gained attraction to cooperating with others for the betterment of the community, to which I was allured by the AA profession as it implements health sciences with collaboration for patient pain management. For leisure, I enjoy going on runs, playing piano, and performing Indian classical dances. I also love trying new food, which I look forward to doing with those I meet in the MSA program.

Vallerie Vasquez-Torres

Hi, I'm Vallerie! I was born in New York and raised in the Poconos, PA. I moved to Houston in 2018 to attend Rice University, where I graduated with a B.A. in Neuroscience & Cognitive Sciences. During my time there, I focused a lot on academic advising and biobehavioral research. I worked as a Bilingual(Spanish) Medical Scribe in 2021 and started working as an Anesthesia Technician full-time once I graduated! Whenever I have free time on my hands, I am definitely reading, crocheting, cooking, kickboxing, or trying out a new crafty hobby (embroidery or rug tufting coming soon!).

Darren Zach

Hello! My name is Darren and I was born and raised in Pearland, Texas just down the highway. I graduated from Rice University in 2022 and knew I wanted to be in the medical field but was unsure what role would be the best fit. I then worked as an emergency room technician for a year here at Memorial Hermann-TMC, then found out about everything the AA profession has to offer and the UTHealth Houston MSA program! In my free time, I like to read, listen to podcasts, cook, go to the gym, and play basketball. I also like to game when I can find the time. An interesting fact about me is that I know (theoretically) how to salsa dance.

Emily Zhang

Since high school, I have worked and volunteered in nursing homes and hospice where I found purpose in caring for others and passion for healthcare. On this path, I went to Indiana University where I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in public health. Post graduation, I joined the lab of a group of anesthesiologists at Mayo Clinic to do bench research, resulting in presentations and peer-reviewed publications. As I enter this journey to become a CAA, I am filled with excitement and dedication to enhancing patient outcomes and furthering this profession. In my free time, I enjoy working out, playing racquet sports, playing the piano, and learning astrophotography. Looking forward to this new chapter.