Belinda Lao

Educational Background: Graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a minor in Neuroscience and also received a Certificate in Community Health Assessment.

Philadelphia Health Corps Role: Patient Assistance Program Advocate at Philadelphia Department of Public Health – Health Center 2

Why did you join AmeriCorps/National Health Corps?  I am currently applying to medical school and wanted to use my gap year to make a positive impact on local communities.

Where do you want to be in five years? What do you want to be doing?  I am hoping to pursue a career in medicine and to continue this track of community involvement.

What is your favorite part of service?  Connecting with the patients that receive our services and becoming aware of both the health needs of the population as well as the abundance of resources and programs available.

Tell us a random fact. I compete in the sport of dragon boating with my team, DCH Racing, based in Flushing, NY. Somewhat ironically, I am also a weak swimmer. The many hours of swim classes in my youth have proved futile.