University of Texas at Dallas Chapter: Meet the Executive Board

Meet the executive board of the NPREMA chapter at the University of Texas at Dallas, in their own words. This post preserves the chapter's original page.

The Executive Board

Caroline Jacob — President

My name is Caroline Jacob, and I currently serve as the president of NPREMA at UTD. I work to build a community and support other pre-med students in their journey to medical school. I'm in my second year of college, studying as a biology major to pursue a career in obstetrics and gynecology. Outside of school, I work as a medical scribe, documenting patient charts and working closely with a variety of physicians.

Sharanya Kusgur — Vice President

My name is Sharanya Kusgur and I am the Vice President of NPreMA at UTD. I'm a sophomore majoring in Molecular Biology on the pre-medical track, with the goal of pursuing a career in orthopedics. I joined NPreMA to build a supportive and welcoming community for students on a similar journey. Outside of NPreMA, I'm a medical assistant, student ambassador, and volunteer at NBCF.

Zhasmin Abzalova — Secretary

My name is Zhasmin Abzalova and I'm currently the secretary of NPREMA at UTD. I'm in my second year as a biology major on the premed track. My goals include pursuing a career in pediatrics. I joined NPREMA in hopes of strengthening my leadership skills as well as to contribute to its mission. Outside of school I participate in clinical observation experiences alongside physicians to gain insight into patient care and medical decision making.

Ashhad Qazi — Treasurer

My name is Ashhad Qazi, a junior Neuroscience major and the treasurer for NPREMA. I joined with the goal to open more opportunities for fellow pre-med students and to allow for guidance for this intense path. Outside of school I love to play the viola and mountain bike.

Varun Saravanan — Public Relations

I'm Varun Saravanan, a neuroscience major and Public Relations Officer for NPREMA at UTD. I'm here to help build connections and bring resources to disadvantaged students looking to pursue medicine. I raise public awareness and work with stigmatized conditions in healthcare as a volunteer, research assistant, and EMT. Aside from medicine, I spend my time in photography and newspaper journalism.

Ridhi Tarimela — Public Relations

My name is Ridhi Tarimela, and I'm currently a Public Relations Officer for NPreMA. I'm a sophomore majoring in Neuroscience on the pre-medical track, with the goal of pursuing a career as a physician. I joined NPreMA to connect with other students with similar aspirations and contribute to a supportive community. Outside of NPreMA, I'm a research assistant, scribe and medical assistant.

Saba Mulugeta — Service Coordinator

My name is Saba Mulugeta, and I serve as the Service Coordinator for NPreMA at UTD. I am a Healthcare Studies major, and I hope to pursue a career as either a family medicine physician or a pediatrician. I'm passionate about patient-centered care and about helping improve access to quality healthcare for underserved communities. I joined NPreMA because I wanted to be part of a community that supports future healthcare professionals and encourages meaningful service. As Service Coordinator, I hope to grow our volunteer opportunities so members can learn, give back, and connect directly with the communities we aim to serve. Outside of NPreMA, I volunteer as a medical assistant at nonprofit clinics, helping with patient intake, vitals, and general clinic support.