Thu Dang

- Lead outreach and social media strategy for a nonprofit initiative serving underserved communities through partnerships with clinics and food pantries across the DFW area. - Coordinate community engagement efforts focused on health education and preventive care, including initiatives centered on vital sign screenings and health awareness. - Develop accessible, culturally responsive content to promote health literacy and encourage individuals to become more informed and proactive about their health.

- Selected as a Hamilton Undergraduate Research Scholar in recognition of research excellence and commitment to advancing interdisciplinary scientific inquiry. - Continue contributing to ongoing aging and neurodegeneration research through experimental design support, data collection, and analysis. - Presented research at SMU’s Fall Research Symposium and plan to continue presenting findings at undergraduate research conferences.

- Conducted hands-on research investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms of aging using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism under the mentorship of Dr. Zhihao Wu, Ph.D. - Performed genetic crosses, fly husbandry, muscle tissue dissections, lifespan analyses, and climbing assays to support studies on neurodegeneration and age-related cellular decline. - Presented research findings in SMU’s Undergraduate 3-Minute Thesis competition, communicating complex scientific concepts clearly to a broad audience.

- Provide weekly piano instruction to children across Garland, Plano, and Dallas, introducing early classical repertoire and foundational music theory. - Adapt teaching methods to individual learning styles, fostering engagement, patience, and confidence in young students at the beginning of their musical development. - Cultivate a positive and encouraging learning environment that supports skill development, motivation, and long-term appreciation for music.

- Supported vision care services within a data-driven “treat-in-place” clinical model by reviewing patient charts, organizing documentation, and contributing to efficient clinical workflows. - Captured retinal and optic images using a Volk Pictor under professional supervision, supporting assessment and documentation across diverse patient populations. - Coordinated professional communication with vision consultants and lead physicians under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Tran, O.D., ensuring timely follow-up and clear continuity of care.

- Served as Chapter President, leading and representing a chapter of 300+ aspiring health professionals and coordinating chapter operations, meetings, and initiatives. - Organized and led sustained community service projects throughout all four years, partnering with organizations such as Amazing Grace Food Bank, the Dallas Arboretum, and nonprofits supporting children with cancer. - Demonstrated excellence in leadership and competitive achievement, earning a historic 1st place at the HOSA International Leadership Conference and representing the chapter at the international level.

- Served as Vice President of Service, leading and coordinating service initiatives that promoted health awareness, community engagement, and outreach within the chapter. - Organized numerous volunteer opportunities and service events while collaborating with chapter leadership to increase member participation and impact. - Competed at the international level in HOSA Parliamentary Procedure, earning 5th place and demonstrating strong leadership, teamwork, and procedural knowledge.

- Selected Freshman Representative for HOSA, representing first-year members and supporting communication between chapter leadership and students. - Assisted with chapter initiatives and events focused on health education, service, and professional development for aspiring healthcare students.

- Elected Class Representative for the North Garland High School Class of 2024, serving as a liaison between students and administration to advocate for student needs and shared priorities. - Managed class communications and outreach, including digital and physical materials and class social media (@nghs.2024), to promote events and fundraisers that supported class initiatives. - Supported peers by organizing and sharing scholarship and academic resources, helping make post-secondary opportunities more accessible and less overwhelming.

- Completed a clinical rotation as a high school student in a hospital setting, observing interdisciplinary cardiac care teams including fellows, residents, respiratory therapists, and allied health professionals. - Observed diagnostic and interventional procedures such as cardiac stress testing, patient rounds, cardiac catheterizations, and heart ablation procedures under professional supervision. - Gained early exposure to clinical workflows, patient care coordination, and the importance of teamwork in a high-acuity cardiovascular environment.

- Honors & Scholarships: Distinguished Scholar, Discovery Scholar, Meadows Scholar, Artistic Scholar - Research: Undergraduate Biology Research Assistant, Hamilton Scholars’ Program (aging biology) - Leadership, Service & Activities: Resident Assistant, Catholic Campus Ministry, Student Association of Music Therapy

- Specialized Programs: Accelerated Math & Science (AMS), Health Science Technology (HST), Math Science Technology (MST) - Activities & Leadership: Asian Student Association (ASA), Beta Club, Class Representative, Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), National Honor Society, Student Council, Varsity Swim Team - GPA: 4.70 (Ranked 9 of 642 students)

- Completed advanced dual-credit coursework alongside high school enrollment - Coursework: Calculus III, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, Government, Economics - GPA: 4.00