Samantha Arteaga

Biology & Psychology

Hi! My name is Samantha, and I’m currently a student on the pre-health track at Duke. I’ve always been fascinated by the connection between science and people, which is what drew me toward medicine in the first place. I want to be someone who uplifts others through medicine, mentorship, and simply listening.

My goal is to attend medical school and eventually become a dermatologist. I’m drawn to the field because of its unique balance between patient care, and the opportunity to improve both physical health and self confidence. My experiences so far have only deepened this interest. Becoming an EMT showed me what it means to handle responsibility under pressure and provide care in urgent moments, while shadowing physicians gave me a closer look at the day to day realities of practicing medicine. I also participated in the Rutgers Mini Medical Program, which gave me an early glimpse into different specialties and helped me see the bigger picture of healthcare. More recently I had the chance to intern at NYU Langone Health, where I was able to observe both the clinical and human sides of medicine within a leading hospital system.

Outside of the classroom, I’ve really enjoyed finding spaces where I can build community. In high school and now at Duke, I’ve been involved in volunteering opportunities that center on service and care as well as fun activities such as dancing or going to the gym. These experiences keep me balanced and remind me that wellness, and teamwork matter just as much as academic success.