Mentorship Video Series for Aspiring Healthcare Professionals

Dear Colleagues,

As the Chair of the Mentorship Committee of the Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS), it is my honor and privilege to introduce the AAMS Mentorship Pre-Health Video Seminar Series, highlighting some of our rising stars in various health professions. With this video series, we are opening a platform for pre-health students to share their real-life experiences as they navigate their journey to becoming healthcare professionals and returning to serve the Armenian community. We aim to offer a wide spectrum of voices, including those currently in their undergraduate years, graduates in the application cycle, and individuals in professional school and postgraduate training. We hope you enjoy the series and provide feedback.

Sincerely,
Sarmen Sarkissian, MD

Video 2: Interview with Sione Markarian, incoming MS-2

About Sione:

Sione Markarian is an incoming second-year MS-2 at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine. She graduated from UC Berkeley in 2022 with a double major in Integrative Human Biology and Public Health. Sione has conducted and published research on diverse topics, including breast cancer genetics and surgery, reconstructive plastic surgery, shared decision-making, health outcomes and expenditures, and language barriers in healthcare. She is committed to enhancing healthcare accessibility, education, and health system strengthening in both local and Armenian communities through her dedicated efforts and initiatives. As part of the DGSOM Global Health Pathway Program, she plans to complete her global health research project in Armenia. Sione is also passionate about mentoring premedical students throughout their undergraduate studies, MCAT preparation, and application processes.

About Dr. Sarmen Sarkissian:

Dr. Sarmen Sarkissian is board-certified in internal medicine and hematology and oncology. He completed his bachelor’s degree in chemistry at UCLA and earned his medical degree at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. He then completed his internship through a categorical internal medicine program and served his residency at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center. It was there that he developed an interest in oncology and hematology and subsequently completed his fellowship training at the University of California, Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Sarkissian is a practicing hematologist and oncologist, serving the cities of Ventura, Simi Valley, and Mission Hills. He is also affiliated with City of Hope as an associate professor.