Network Praise
“Dr. Gilbert was my mentor during all four years of medical school. She was a constant support to me as I navigated various challenges – academic, interpersonal, systemic, etc. She was an advocate for all students but especially those from diverse backgrounds, nontraditional students, and others for whom the path through medical school was not clearly laid out. While anyone can provide a word of encouragement or a listening ear, Dr. Gilbert had a way of providing tangible support and practical advice that was individualized to each person and actually made a difference. She has a very kind and approachable personality that made it easy to come to her when I was struggling or just needed to process my thoughts, knowing that I would be met with understanding and genuine care. I cannot recommend her enough for anyone who needs a little extra support on their journey to becoming a doctor.” – PGY-2 OBGYN Resident
“As a first-year medical student and a recent college graduate, I can confidently say that Dr. Bernadatte Gilbert has been one of the most influential mentors in my journey to medicine. As someone who is first-generation in medicine, I often found myself navigating unfamiliar territory without much personal guidance. Dr. Gilbert became the mentor I didn’t even realize I needed. She not only helped me understand what admissions committees were looking for and how to present my experiences effectively, but she challenged me to tell my story authentically and to recognize that my lived experiences were not obstacles to overcome, but strengths that would shape the physician I will become. What made her guidance so impactful was that it came from someone who understood many of the challenges I faced. Seeing a physician and leader who shared similar experiences gave me a sense of representation I had never truly had before. She understood what it felt like to be underrepresented, isolated, and unsure where to turn, so she intentionally created the kind of mentorship that reminds you that you belong. Even now, our relationship extends beyond the medical school application process. Dr. Gilbert has remained a source of encouragement by checking in regularly, making time to meet whenever our schedules and locations aligned, and celebrating every milestone alongside me. She has never made mentorship feel transactional, but rather she has built a relationship centered on genuine care, trust, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. For anyone navigating the path to medicine, I cannot imagine a better person to have in your corner. Dr. Gilbert brings not only exceptional knowledge and experience, but more importantly, the intentionality and belief in others that can truly change the trajectory of someone’s journey. I am incredibly grateful that she changed mine.” – First Year Medical School Student