This summer, the SAS Honors Program community celebrated the news that Caroline Kaprelian SAS '26 along with three other SASHP students were offered admission into Robert Wood Johnson Medical School's BA/MD program, a program designed for a select group of high-achieving premedical students of Rutgers University to have conditional, early-acceptance to Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Caroline shares her reflections and advice to prospective students looking to pursue this route.
Caroline Kaprelian SAS '26 is a Biological Sciences major from Saddle Brook, New Jersey, and was accepted to the RWJMS this summer with plans to matriculate to RWJMS next fall.
Caroline grew up inspired to follow in her pediatrician’s footsteps. At Rutgers, she is involved in activities both related and unrelated to medicine. She tutors elementary students in reading, volunteers in the NICU at Robert Wood Johnson, and is an active member of the Armenian Club. Her favorite extracurricular activity is Project Sunshine, which brings joy and play to pediatric patients in the Children’s Hospital. Caroline has explored the medical field as a Patient Care Associate and through shadowing doctors and surgeons. She also researches neurodegenerative diseases and received a fellowship for an independent project. Outside academics, Caroline loves running. After leading her high school cross country and track teams, she completed the NYC Queens Half Marathon and several 5Ks, and is now training for the NYC Marathon.
Caroline advises prospective students to, “explore different activities before committing to those you enjoy most. When you decide to embark on this path, make sure you are giving it your all. That process becomes enjoyable with the right activities. Genuine passion will shine through in your conversations, essays, and applications. When it is time to apply, focus on telling your unique story instead of following a checklist. There is no single path to medical school - what truly matters is staying true to yourself. Another tip is to work closely with classmates, mentors, professors, and deans. There is always someone available to offer guidance, whether you need advice or help with coursework. Professors genuinely want to help you, and by using their support, you can better grasp the material and excel. Lastly, prioritize your mental and physical well-being. The medical field is a marathon, not a sprint. Take care of yourself, be kind to yourself, find stress-relief outlets, and build strong relationships.”
We are proud of her accomplishment!
