Hey everyone! My name is Lara Castaneda and I am currently a second-year medical student at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine Middletown. I was born and raised in Westchester, New York. For my undergraduate studies, I attended Stony Brook University where I graduated with a major in Health Science and minor in Chemistry. Since starting medical school, my commitment to increasing awareness and encouraging communication around AAPI medical concerns motivated me to co-found and serve as President for my medical school’s APAMSA chapter. I was so deeply influenced by APAMSA’s mission and goals that I served as Database Director last year, where I fell in love with supporting local chapters and saw firsthand the impact we can make at the community level. This experience encouraged me to take on the role of Region 2 Director, where I am excited to focus on the NY/NJ area and eager to give back to the community that shaped me into who I am today. Outside of school, I love trying new food spots, doing my own nail art, traveling, and playing volleyball. I’m incredibly excited to serve as one of your Region 2 Directors, and I look forward to continuing my commitment to amplifying the voices of the APAMSA community!