TB Scholar to UW Medical Student

"My interest in global health related research stems from both of my parents being immigrants from different countries."

Growing up, Elizabeth Ramirez heard stories about her parents' struggles to access healthcare in their countries of origin and even as new immigrants in the United States. Her mother, who was adopted from Taiwan as a teenager, was able to undergo treatment for TB when she arrived in the U.S. However, the process was arduous because she endured many unpleasant side effects and was navigating the healthcare system while still learning English. Ramirez remembers that after learning about her mother’s experience with TB, she was deeply motivated to deepen her own understanding of the disease.

In January of 2021, Ramirez joined the TB Scholars Program (TBSP), an interactive and highly engaging program which aims to increase the participation of underrepresented undergraduate students in TB related research. She had first learned about TBSP through her undergraduate advisor who encouraged her to apply to the program. Ramirez had been seeking opportunities to get involved in research and career development. TBSP seemed to be a perfect fit. In addition to her time spent in lab, she also participated in the TB Scholars lecture series where she was able to learn from TB-focused faculty about their research and lab work.

Ramirez remarks that the TRTC/SEATRAC faculty were extremely supportive of each scholar’s professional development.

"Dr. Sylvia LaCourse was very welcoming for me to shadow her at Harborview before applying to medical school. That experience let me gain a better understanding of how infectious disease research translates into clinical care."

In June of 2022, Ramirez graduated from UW with a BS in Biology and a minor in Global Health and became an official employee of University of Washington School of Medicine within the Seshadri Lab. As a Research Scientist, Ramirez continues to focus on molecular experiments, flow cytometry, and lab work. She now mentors students participating in the TBSP program and takes on additional research projects as available.

Ramirez was recently accepted to the University of Washington School of Medicine. She plans on completing medical school and building a career working with underrepresented communities. 

"I aim to build long term connections, work to decrease barriers to healthcare, and engage my patients as active participants in their medical care."