Elaje López
Pathway Programs Writing Specialist
UC Davis School of Medicine
Friday October 9, 2026
5pm-6:30pm PST
Workshop Description:
Strong writing can transform an application from a list of accomplishments into a compelling story that helps reviewers understand who you are, what motivates you, and where you hope to go. In this workshop, community college and university premedical students will learn directly from Elaje López, Pathway Programs Writing Specialist at UC Davis School of Medicine, about developing effective essays for summer programs, transfer applications, pathway programs, scholarships, research opportunities, and other premedical experiences. Students will explore how to identify meaningful experiences, communicate personal growth, organize ideas, avoid common writing mistakes, and present an authentic voice without trying to sound like someone else. Whether you are applying for your first summer opportunity or preparing for transfer and medical school pathways, this session can help strengthen your confidence as a writer and applicant. Come, ask your questions and get answers. Hear directly from the source instead of relying on second-hand information, bad advice, or people who have no clue about the application process. Your story matters, and learning how to tell it effectively can open doors.
About the Speaker:
Elaje López is an experienced Writing Specialist at the UC Davis School of Medicine, working with premedical community college students in the CMSP AvenueM program. Previously, she has also served as the Writing Specialist for the Huwighurruk Tribal Health Postbaccalaureate Program, and worked for two years as a Peer and Libraries Fellow at Columbia University’s Writing Center. She holds a degree in English from Columbia University. Elaje is passionate about linguistic justice and diversity, and has previously published and presented academic work in the field of writing studies, with a special focus on early college writing pedagogy and preprofessional writing skills. You can find more information about the writing support and services Elaje offers premedical students at her website here.
Register for Free:
What: Essays That Open Doors: Writing Winning Applications for Summer Programs, Transfer, and Premed Opportunities
When: Friday, October 9, 2026, 5 PM (Pacific Standard Time)
You will receive an immediate email confirmation of your registration from Zoom. PLEASE check your SPAM or JUNK folder, as the email might be directed there. Additionally, you will receive an email reminder from Zoom ONE hour before the event, sent to the same email address you used for registration.

