“UD had so much to offer, I kept asking myself, ‘Why would I leave Delaware?’” she said.

The deal was sealed after she discovered UD’s Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences (MMSC). 

“It was the perfect combination of a big school and a close-knit department like MMSC, where the professors know every student's name—even in larger lectures,” McLaughlin said. 

She loves her immunology course because it applies to medical school. 

“I’ve already taken all the medical school prerequisite courses, and now, for the next year-and-a-half, I’ll take classes I will be exposed to again in medical school,” said McLaughlin. 

McLaughlin tells prospective students that UD CHS has so much to offer. 

“Look at the top-ranked Physical Therapy program; the School of Nursing is amazing; there’s no point in going anywhere else. UD is the best place to make connections and work in the healthcare field,” said McLaughlin. 

Joy Mochache

Joy Mochache, a sophomore nutrition and medical sciences major, initially thought she wanted to go out of state for college, too — until the New Castle native discovered UD’s unique program, which married her interests in nutrition and pre-medical education. Since she was 13, Mochache knew she wanted to be an orthopedic surgeon.

“I’m so glad I stayed,” Mochache said. “I love nutrition, but I knew studying nutrition and getting my pre-med requirements elsewhere would be difficult. The nutrition and medical sciences major at UD is the perfect fit because it prepares you so well for medical school.”

She also loves the tight-knit feel of the Department of Health Behavior and Nutrition Sciences. 

“Everyone knows each other, and I don’t think I would have gotten that sense anywhere else,” she said. 

Research opportunities

Mochache and Ebron got early starts in their college careers conducting research, opportunities they consider invaluable to their academic growth. In her second week on campus, Mochache joined Assistant Professor of Health Behavior and Nutrition Sciences Jody Greaney in the Cardiovascular Psychophysiology Lab. She said Greaney has been a fantastic mentor.

“Working in Dr. Greaney’s lab has taught me so much about physiology and the human body,” Mochache said. “UD’s research programs are great, and the professors are experts who are always willing to help you. They care about students and give you all the resources and opportunities you need to succeed. I love it here so much.” 

Since the summer of his first year at UD, Ebron has worked in Undergraduate Research Director and Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Justin Parreno’s lab in the College of Art and Sciences, studying tendon genes.

“As a Filipino, learning from a Filipino professional has been inspiring and eye-opening,” said Ebron. “I love the collaborative aspects of research, and the experience has made me a more well-rounded pre-med student.”

All three pre-med students will benefit from the guidance of the Health Professions Evaluation Committee within UD’s Center for Health Profession Studies. The committee, comprised of industry healthcare professionals and faculty, supports students pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, optometry and podiatry and evaluates their credentials. The committee’s support is key to successful matriculation into medical and other health professions schools. 

Campus life

Ebron also loves being a part of the Filipino Student Association, serving as its vice president last year. 

“I had the opportunity to collaborate with Greek life and cultural organizations on campus and with Filipino students in the region and create formative experiences that inspire underclassmen to take on leadership roles with the organization.”

Mochache has made lifelong friends with the Christian organization Delaware CRU. 

“They’re like a second family to me,” she said. 

McLaughlin volunteers with Lori’s Hands, which has taught her patience — a skill she’ll need as a doctor.

“As an EMT at UD, I work with many able-bodied college students, but our Lori’s Hands companions take longer to walk or speak. You might be the only person they see that week, and it’s such a rewarding experience; they love you like you’re a grandchild,” said McLaughlin.

After medical school, McLaughlin aspires to be a pediatric physician in her home state. 

“My family has such strong roots in Delaware, and I want to stay here,” McLaughlin said. “The wide range of experiences I’ve had at UD and the connections I’ve made will make me proud to serve as a physician in the First State in the future.”