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Gisselle Pichardo was born and raised in the Dominican Republic and immigrated to New York City as a child. She earned an associate's degree in math and science from La Guardia Community College in Queens, New York and a bachelor's degree in biology with a minor in psychology from The City College of New York. She attended the Heritage College's Athens campus, participated in the Summer Scholars and Pre-Matriculation programs and graduated from the Rural and Urban Scholars Pathways program. She matched into dermatology at the University of Oklahoma.

What was your childhood like? Who were your inspirations? Was there anything critical that happened that brought you to this point in life?

My childhood was interesting. I grew up in the Dominican Republic with various family members. My mom immigrated to the United States, and I was able to join her many years later when I was 10 years old. In the DR, life was fun, and I spent a lot of time outdoors. When I came to America, I had to grow up quickly. Life was very different, and I started working in high school to help my mom. I always knew I wanted to be a doctor, but it has been a hard road. I do not have a traditional path to medicine, which makes me graduating from medical school such a huge accomplishment! My inspiration for everything I do is my mother. She truly is the hardest-working person I know. She has sacrificed so much so I can pursue my dreams, I am forever indebted to her. Her determination and grit have fueled me.

What led you to medical school? 

I always knew I wanted to be a doctor. Growing up I enjoyed science classes and was truly fascinated with medicine. I just had no idea how to accomplish my goal of becoming a physician. People who look like me for the