Class of 2028
Jon AddingtonI was born and raised in Austin, Texas, and graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science. After graduation, I worked as an anesthesia technician at Seton Medical Center for over a year, where I gained valuable experience in the operating room and discovered my interest in anesthesia. I am excited to continue my education at UTHealth Houston and begin my journey toward becoming a CAA. Outside of academics, I enjoy golfing, swimming, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.
Zachary BarkerHello! I was born in Austin and raised there as well as in New Braunfels, TX. I recently graduated from UT Austin with a BSA in Biology and spent my gap year working as a caregiver at a hospice house. That experience, as well as my time shadowing, led me to pursue anesthesia. I have a deep love for everything outdoors, with my most recent adventures taking place on a big green canoe. Also, I was able to fulfill a lifelong dream this summer by visiting the Redwoods in Northern California, which surpassed all my expectations! Next on the list is rafting through the Grand Canyon.
Gilan ChoucairHi, I’m Gilan! I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a minor in Biology. During my undergraduate years, I worked as a medical assistant and contributed to pediatric anesthesia research, both of which inspired me to pursue a career in anesthesia. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading, exploring new cafes, doing Pilates, and spending time with family and friends. I’m honored to be part of the UTHealth Houston MSA program and excited to begin this next chapter.
Rahulveer DhillonHello, my name is Rahulveer Dhillon. I am from the DFW area and graduated from Tarleton State University with an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science in 2024. In my free time, I enjoy weightlifting, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, and going to the movies. I am incredibly grateful and excited to begin my CAA education at an institution as respected and well-regarded as UTHealth Houston.
Nicolas FentonHowdy, y’all—my name is Nick! I was raised in Alaska before moving to Texas to attend Texas A&M. I have an accounting background as a former corporate auditor for Lowe's. I was inspired to fulfill a long-time desire to transition to healthcare after helping care for my dad during cancer treatment. Specifically, I chose to pursue AA school after receiving care from a CAA during my shoulder surgery. I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone better!
Numa DhukaI'm originally from Austin, Texas, and graduated from UT Austin in May 2026 with a bachelor's degree in Chemistry. At UT, I gained clinical experience volunteering in Global Medical Training (GMT), and working as a patient observation assistant and medical assistant in gynecology. My interests in chemical pharmacology and physiology, combined with my clinical experiences, led me to pursue a career as an anesthesiologist assistant. I'm excited to learn and challenge myself in the field of anesthesia. Outside of academics, I'm looking forward to exploring new running routes around Houston and going on food tours!
Reigne EvangelistaBorn in the Philippines and raised in Austin, Texas, I graduated from UT-Austin with a degree in Computational Biology. While undergrad is where I found my path to this career, UT-Austin is where I established roots for the future CAAs through TPCA. Outside of Academics, I enjoy playing the piano, learning trending recipes on social media, and living a balanced life. As I continue this path at such a prestigious institution, I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering support I have from my family, dear friends, my dog Migi, and the wonderful mentors who continue to support me today.
Chloe GonzalezHi, I’m Chloe! I am originally from the Houston area and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in Human Biology and a minor in Professional Sales and Business Development. During my time there, I shadowed several anesthesia professionals and realized that a career in anesthesia is the best fit for me to provide comfort and compassionate care to others. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, and trying new restaurants and coffee shops with friends. I am so grateful to be a part of the UTHealth MSA program!
Anne HwangHi, I'm Anne! I was born and raised in Houston, then moved to the DFW area to attend the University of Texas at Dallas, where I got my bachelor's in biology and a minor in music. I have always had a passion for healthcare, and this is a very exciting opportunity for me! Outside of school and work, I love to play music! I play a number of classical and non-classical instruments, including piano, voice, and bass guitar. I also like to hike and crochet, and am an avid reader!
Divya KumarHello! My name is Divya, and I’m originally from Southlake, Texas. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University in 2021, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Houston’s Accelerated Nursing Program, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2022. After graduation, I worked as a Pediatric Operating Room nurse at Children’s Memorial Hermann TMC for three years and trained in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, which cultivated my interest in anesthesia. I am proud of my meaningful career as a nurse and excited and honored to further my education at UTHealth.
Lois LeeI was born and raised in Austin and graduated from Georgia Tech in December 2025 with a B.S. in Neuroscience and a minor in Health and Medical Sciences. During college, I worked as a medical assistant and scribe at an internal medicine practice, which fueled my initial interest in healthcare. After shadowing a CAA, I was drawn to the dynamic environment of the anesthesiologist assistant profession and the opportunities to care for patients during critical periods, so I am thrilled to be part of the UT MSA program. I enjoy spending my free time practicing Pilates, crocheting, and exploring coffee shops.
Meray LewisBorn in Egypt and raised in Cypress, Texas, I graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. My passion for medicine and patient care ultimately led me to pursue a career as a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant. Faith, family, and community are especially important to me, and I enjoy serving my church and spending quality time with my family and friends. In my free time, you can usually find me getting lost in a good book, crocheting something new, or simply enjoying time with the people closest to me. I’m excited to continue learning and growing both personally and professionally.
Dian LiuHi, I'm Dian! Originally from Round Rock, TX, I obtained my undergraduate degree in Biology at Texas A&M in 2025. During my time in school, I volunteered at a local hospital in both the CCU and the oncology unit. After I graduated, I worked at a senior living and memory care facility, where I gained more medical knowledge and experience. In my free time, I love to travel, eat delicious food from all over the world, visit museums and zoos, and relax by playing video games.
Anna Lucia MunozHi, I’m Anna Lucia! I grew up in Mexico City before moving to Houston, and I’m grateful to call both places home. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin, where I majored in Biochemistry and minored in Business and Social & Behavioral Sciences. Hook ’em! Shadowing anesthesia providers helped me discover the perfect fit for my passion for healthcare through its blend of science, teamwork, and patient care. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, trying new hobbies like cooking and gardening, and spending time with family and friends. I'm honored to begin this journey at UTHealth Houston!
Cynthia MuyahI was born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and moved to Houston with my family at age 10. Houston has been my home ever since! I began my healthcare career as a registered nurse after graduating from UTHealth’s Cizik School of Nursing in 2019. I have spent the last six years growing within the field as an IMU and bedside nurse. My hobbies include running, cooking, spending time with family, and traveling. I am incredibly excited to begin this next chapter and to help deliver safe, high-quality patient care as a future CAA.
Katelyn NguyenHi, I’m Katelyn! I was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and earned my BS in Public Health from the University of Texas at Austin. Throughout college and beyond, I worked as a medical assistant and makerspace mentor, which deepened my passion for patient care and innovation. My interest in anesthesia sprouted through my coursework and shadowing experiences, where I came to appreciate how physiology and biochemistry integrate to provide pain management. In my free time, I enjoy reading, playing sports, trying new restaurants/cafes with friends, and watching movies. I am excited to continue my education at UTHealth Houston!
Steven NguyenI was raised in Austin, Texas, and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. During my time as an undergrad, I worked as a medical assistant at an urgent care clinic, where I gained patient care experience. While shadowing an anesthesiologist assistant, I was drawn to the opportunity to comfort patients during vulnerable moments. In my free time, I enjoy running, going to the gym, watching sports, and spending time with friends and family. I’m very excited to move to Houston and start this next chapter!
Paula NicholsHi, I’m Paula! I grew up in The Woodlands, TX, a suburb in North Houston. In May 2024, I graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Medicine and Society. During undergrad, I volunteered at MD Anderson, fostered kittens and cats for my local animal shelter, and tutored peers in chemistry. My hobbies include crocheting, baking, working out, and spending time with my cat, Buckley. I’ve always been interested in healthcare and am incredibly excited to join the UTHealth Houston MSA Class of 2028!
Jannifer PhanHi! My name is Jannifer! I was born and raised in Houston, TX, and went on to receive my B.S.A. in Biochemistry at the University of Texas at Austin. Since graduating, I have worked as a registered dental assistant. My initial interest in oral health evolved into a desire to understand and care for the body as a whole, ultimately guiding me to anesthesia. Oftentimes, you will find me dabbling in a variety of hobbies such as baking, crafting fun drinks, crocheting, and scrapbooking! I also love recreating nostalgic dishes that I’ve enjoyed with my friends and family.
Elena PowersHello, my name is Elena, and I am from San Antonio, Texas. I attended the University of Alabama, where I earned my B.S. in Chemistry. During my time there, I was involved in Alzheimer’s research, worked in medical records, and earned my phlebotomy certification. After graduation, I began working at a transplant hospital, where I further developed my passion for patient care. These experiences drew me towards the CAA profession because of its unique combination of patient care, science, and pharmacology. Outside of school, I enjoy Pilates, running, and baking. I am excited to start the UT MSA program!
Noah RanneyHello! My name is Noah Ranney, and I’m from Frisco, Texas. I attended the University of Arizona, where I earned my BSHS in Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Biochemistry. Before moving to Houston to begin the MSA program at UTHealth Houston, I worked as a CNA in a rehabilitation hospital. My interest in anesthesia began when my mother's childhood friend, an anesthesiologist, gifted me the book "Ether Day" by Julie M. Fenster. I am so excited to be a part of the Master of Science in Anesthesia program to become a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant!
Elise SibleyHi, I’m Elise! I was raised in Albuquerque and Dallas, and attended Rice University and Southwestern University, where I earned a degree in Biology and conducted research in graph theory under the Math & Computer Science faculty. My childhood experiences with Vocal Cord Dysfunction inspired my pursuit of medicine, and I discovered a love of anesthesia while working as an anesthesia technician during college. In my free time, I love to read, puzzle, and see live music. I look forward to pursuing my dream career in anesthesia as part of the UT MSA program!
Lorenzo SimentalMy name is Lorenzo Simental. Born and raised in a military household, I lived in many different states before my family eventually found its home in Texas. Straight out of high school, I decided to pursue a career in healthcare. I worked as an EMT throughout college while earning my Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from The University of Texas at Austin. Now, I am excited to begin studying anesthesia at UTHealth Houston, where I can combine my enthusiasm for healthcare with my love for learning. In my free time, I enjoy boxing, running, and challenging myself in new ways.
Tiffany TranHi, I’m Tiffany! I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Human Biology. During undergrad, I worked as a medical assistant and volunteered at a speech lab focused on stroke recovery. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, trying new foods, hanging out with my dogs and kitties, and doing arts & crafts! I am so excited to be a part of the UT MSA program!
Evelyn TrejoHi! I'm from Dickinson, Texas. I graduated from UT Austin in May 2021 with a BS in Neuroscience and a Business of Healthcare Certificate. Since then, I've spent the past five years working in healthcare administration, first in private practices in Austin and then in national telehealth. In my free time, I run, read, relax, and I am slowly working toward learning my third language, French. As a non-traditional student, my gap years have strengthened my passion for healthcare and confirmed that UTHealth is the ideal program for me to grow into a skilled CAA.
Timaj UsmanAloha! My name is Timaj. I was born in Ethiopia and moved to the United States at an early age. Growing up between the two countries gave me a unique perspective on different cultures and healthcare systems. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Texas A&M University with minors in Psychology and Public Health. My passion for patient care has been shaped by personal experiences and strengthened through clinical, research, and volunteer work. These experiences inspired my interest in anesthesia and its blend of pharmacology, precision, and compassion. I enjoy anime, soccer, perfume collecting, swimming, and video games.
Celina YangHi I’m Celina! I am from Houston, TX, and I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in Biology and a minor in Health Communications. During my undergraduate career, I worked as a medical assistant at a dermatology clinic and as a research assistant studying the effects of circadian dysregulation on neurodevelopment. These experiences ultimately contributed to my passion for physiology and patient advocacy. In my free time, I love traveling, hiking, reading, and spending time with my family and friends!