Skip to main content
School of Medicine School of Medicine

Med School Minute: Student Success Advisors

 Lane Stucki and Dema Youhanna

Student Success Advisors Lane Stucki (left) and Dema Youhanna provide a proactive approach to medical student success by being aware of and creating programs and services that recognize and meet student needs.

Coach, counselor, cheerleader and advisor are just a few of the functions that come to mind when University of California San Diego School of Medicine’s student success advisors describe their role. Lane Stucki and Dema Youhanna joined School of Medicine earlier this year in the newly created roles. Their focus is to provide support and guidance to medical students throughout the educational journey.

We asked them to share a little bit more about themselves and their roles at School of Medicine:

What is a student success advisor?

Youhanna: In collaboration with the academic community directors, we provide student-centered support, offering a safe space for students to discuss their concerns and challenges. Medical students encounter many critical junctures throughout their journey, and we are here to guide them through those pivotal times. Our primary goal is to ensure that each student thrives academically, personally, and in terms of overall wellness. Our advising is holistic, emphasizing the entire student experience and fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Why are student success advisors important?

Stucki:I think it's important for medical students to have a designated advisor that can hold a non-judgmental space when dealing with the ups and downs of medical school. Some students benefit from receiving support from someone that is knowledgeable about medical school, but less of a health care “insider.” Sometimes, hearing a perspective from the “outside” can help us think creatively about problems and solutions. I also think a proactive advising role is key to addressing issues or concerns quickly and empathetically.

Why did you choose the School of Medicine?

Youhanna: I’ve had the privilege of working at UC San Diego for more than four years. I am deeply passionate about guiding and supporting students as they work toward their goals. Our student body is incredibly diverse, with each individual bringing a unique background and story. I wanted to be part of their journey, helping them grow into compassionate and caring doctors. I chose to join the School of Medicine because of its unwavering commitment to student success.

Stucki: I love working with students.The process of learning requires us to dig deep and do hard things, and I love being there for folks to help them persist. At School of Medicine, I’m lucky to be surrounded by other team members that have this same passion for supporting learners.

With less than 200 medical schools in the United States, the medical school experience is one of the most unique educational experiences in the world. I wanted to be a part of the team that supports upcoming generations of doctors.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about applying to the School of Medicine?

Stucki: Know your “why” and purpose for pursuing medicine. Medical school is a challenging educational experience, but it's also extremely special and unlike anything else in the world. Knowing your “why” will help you stay tethered to your values during difficult times.

Youhanna: Medicine is a demanding field. Showcase how you've grown through challenges and how you’ve developed resilience, empathy, and the ability to handle stress. Students should also gain meaningful experiences by volunteering, shadowing physicians, or engaging in research to get insight into the medical field. Lastly, be yourself. Share your unique story, your passions, and what makes you stand out as a future physician.

What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?

Youhanna:I have experience working with students across all levels—elementary, middle, and high school—as well as community college students, undergraduates and graduate students. I love being part of the students’ journey and supporting them to achieve their goals.

Stucki: I love history! I especially love reading and learning about American history. In the last few years, I have taken to learning more about the history of medicine. If you have a favorite history of medicine fact you want to share with me, I would love learning about it!

What is the best way for students to get in contact with either of you?

Stucki and Youhanna: Students can email us anytime. Students can also set up an appointment to meet in person or via Zoom. Our bookings page and email are available in the SOM ACCESS course.

Stucki supports students in the red, blue and yellow academic communities.

Youhanna supports students in the green, orange and purple academic communities.

Joyce Pritchett

Communications Specialist, UC San Diego School of Medicine