Sophia Palumbo

My name is Sophia Palumbo and I am a recent graduate from Pepperdine University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I have an extensive clinical background in clinic, research, administration and volunteer work. I am detail-oriented, quick to learn, and positive in any environment. I am currently looking for work in the medical field to continue broadening my knowledge.

Independent Research under Dr. Anna Weiss at University of Rochester Wilmot Cancer Center (2024-05 – Present)

• Performed extensive literature reviews on risk factors for recurrence and delayed resolution of breast abscesses
• Conducted retrospective chart review to abstract and compile data on +1000 patients in database
• Ensured compliance with IRB protocol and maintained data integrity on REDCap
• Primary author of abstract accepted to American Society of Breast Surgery Annual Conference 2025 for Poster Presentation and publication in Annals of Surgical Oncology
• Prepared and delivered a presentation at the Inaugural Pepperdine Oncology Symposium

Student Administrative Assistant at Pepperdine University Student Health Center (2022-10 – 2026-05)

• Developed baskets with health-related products and informational resources to educate +800 students
• Facilitate Wellness Day's for students to participate in CPR workshop, Flu-Shot Clinic, and Narcan training
• Created and presented, HIPPA Policy and Procedure Annual Training, to office staff
• Create social media marketing material to promote the services of the health center and to educate students

Medical Assistant Intern at Dr. Janet Vafaie Dermatology Office (2025-05 – 2025-08)

• Assisted in biopsy procedures, steroid injections, laser treatments, cosmetic procedures, and full body screening
• Coordinated front-office procedures: check-in patients, scheduling appointments, scribing, checking insurance, billing, answering phones
• Counseled patients on skin-care regimens, surgical after-care, and other patient concerns
• Trained and educated new student interns one month into joining the practice

Shadow Student in Burn Trauma ICU, General Trauma Service, Emergency General Surgery at Strong Memorial Hospital (2024-06 – 2024-08)

• Observed 50 hours of care in the trauma bay, operating room, and floor service at a Level 1 Trauma Hospital
• Participated in morning debrief, daily rounds, M&M Conference, patient consults, and trauma calls

Emergency Medical Technician at Pittsford Ambulance (2021-12 – 2023-12)

• Provided 350 volunteer hours of pre-hospital care to the residents of Pittsford and the Rochester community
• Ensured skillful medical care to revive and stabilize patients suffering from traumatic injuries, strokes, seizures, drug overdoses and other serious conditions
• Utilized life-reviving skills such as airway management, bleeding control, cardiac skills, medication administration, patient/trauma assessment skills

Medical Mission Trip at HUGS Foundation (2021-09 – 2024-06)

• Observed +150 cumulative hours of facial reconstructive surgery including microtia, rhinoplasty, cleft lip/palate
• Documented patient demographics, surgery plan, and pre-op pictures into charts on electronic charting system
• Facilitated post-operative clinic including suture removal, post-op pictures, discharge instructions, and future care plans

Bachelor of Science in Biology – Pepperdine University (2022-08 – 2026-05)