Growing as a Researcher, Leader and Future Physician

Published: November 1, 2026

Kevin Bobby always knew he wanted to pursue a career in medicine. Inspired by his parents, who both work in healthcare, he entered UT Austin as a human biology major in the College of Natural Sciences, eager to gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom. Although he initially planned to attend UT Dallas because it was closer to his hometown, he chose UT Austin after friends and family encouraged him to pursue its research opportunities and campus experience.

During the summer before his sophomore year, he learned that the newly formed student organization, Mental Health Initiative for South Asians (MHISA), had connected with Healthyhorns to conduct student-led mental health research. Excited by the opportunity, he joined as one of the organization's earliest members while its research program was still taking shape.

Through this opportunity, Kevin worked closely with Brittany Boyer, Ph.D., Associate Director of Research and Data Informatics, who mentored him throughout his undergraduate experience. Under her guidance, he learned how to conduct literature reviews, design studies, submit Institutional Review Board proposals and analyze data, helping him develop an in-depth understanding of how researchers approach complex questions.

"As an undergraduate, I wasn't just assisting with research," Kevin said. "I was learning how researchers develop questions, design studies and think through problems. That experience was incredibly unique."

As Kevin's confidence grew, so did his responsibilities. He advanced from an undergraduate researcher to director of research and development for MHISA. He led research projects, mentored newer members and created processes that would help the organization continue growing after his graduation.

While early studies required revisions, Boyer's mentorship helped the team learn from setbacks and improve its work. Those efforts paid off when one project earned first place at the inaugural Texas Research Showdown in April 2025 and was presented at multiple conferences, including the June 2025 American College Health Association Annual Meeting in New Orleans.

Beyond learning research methods, Kevin says the experience transformed his approach to leadership. Taking responsibility for the research team taught him how to build camaraderie and create an environment where everyone felt comfortable learning and growing, even while navigating uncertainty. He also discovered how research can influence policy, improve healthcare and create meaningful change within communities.

"Through conferences and workshops at cultural centers, it was rewarding to see how we could raise awareness and spark conversations about mental health," Kevin said. "These experiences helped me realize that I want to use both research and medicine to address the barriers patients face."

Kevin graduated from UT Austin in May 2026 and is now attending the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth.

Before beginning medical school, he spent the summer helping others continue the work he started. He created onboarding resources for future MHISA researchers and mentored new student leaders to help position the organization’s research program for continued success. He also worked to transition leadership of community service initiatives, including a volunteer transportation program for his church community and a donation organization he founded.

Now beginning the next chapter of his journey, Kevin says the mentorship and opportunities he found through Healthyhorns provided a strong foundation for medical school and his future career as a physician. He hopes to carry these lessons forward by continuing to seek out opportunities to make a difference and working toward solutions that improve the lives of others.