Having fled the Soviet Union due to religious persecution, David Denisov’s family has faced many challenges. Serious medical issues, raising 10 children on government assistance and the recent loss of his father have taken both a financial and emotional toll. As a biological sciences major at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, David sees his degree as a path to a career in medicine, which would provide an opportunity for him to give people like his family hope in challenging times.

While attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, David has volunteered at a senior living facility, assisting residents and dementia patients, is a member of the American Medical Student Association, and has been involved in a behavioral research study, all with the aim of enhancing his knowledge of biology and medicine. David volunteered this summer in a clinical setting where he shadowed medical specialists, deepening his knowledge about medicine.

David plans to pursue a career in emergency medicine due to the adaptive nature of the field.