Leah Grandi Holben ‘14

Leah Grandi Holben ‘14

Major: Health Sciences

Attending: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University (Class of 2018). Residency in Internal Medicine at Temple University Hospital (class of 2021) and currently a PGY-5 in hematology/oncology at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

“A-Ha” Moment

During cell biology at Gettysburg College with Dr. Kittelberger, Leah distinctly remembers learning about the pathophysiology of Hodgkin Lymphoma. She remembers being completely fascinated in how cancer is self and non-self at the same time, and appreciated the complexity of treating cancer while leaving the patient relatively unharmed. This sparked Leah’s interest in oncology which guided her career.

Gettysburg College / Health Professions Highlights

Leah had a lot of assistance from the Gettysburg College Health Professions Committee. They reviewed her CV and experiences at different points throughout her college years and helped her get experiences to flesh out her medical school application. Leah also had an incredible basic science research experience with Dr. Jennifer Powell from the biology department. She learned valuable skills and was well prepared to conceptualize and understand the advanced diagnostic techniques we use in medicine.

Leah’s Top Tip for Preparing for Graduate School

Leah suggests getting a variety of experiences - don't just focus on the sciences. Medical schools are looking for candidates with a broad range of experiences. During medical school interviews, she was asked just as much about her participation in marching band as her research experiences.

Final Words of Wisdom

“Medicine (and life, for that matter) is a group effort. You aren't expected to know everything. The best doctors are ones who know their limitations and aren't afraid to ask for help when they need it.”