Mentorship Guidance for Aspiring Healthcare Professionals, Episode No. 3

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.

Sincerly,
Sarmen Sarkissian, MD

Video 3: Interview with Christian Dergazarian, aspiring physician

About Christian:

Christian Dergazarian, a dedicated scholar and aspiring healthcare professional, shares his compelling journey through undergraduate studies as a pre-med student. His passion for providing excellent patient care has been a driving force throughout his academic career at UC Davis where he received his B.S. in the Biological Sciences. Beyond academics, Christian has actively engaged in volunteer work at a local hospital and interns at a TruCare community where he serves mentally disabled individuals, highlighting his commitment to serving underserved communities. Through these experiences, Christian has developed a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with mental illness who are underserved, neglected, and abandoned by society. His insightful reflections and advice are sure to provide guidance and inspire aspiring medical professionals as they navigate their own educational paths. Inspired by his work with Dr. Sarmen Sarkissian, Christian hopes to one day pursue a career in Oncology and contribute meaningfully to the field’s advancements in patient care and treatment outcomes.

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.