This organization helps raise money for children at Riley Hospital for Children with events such as a 5K run and concert at the Old National Center.
Riley is involved in planning for this year’s concert with the musical guest, The Main Squeeze, on April 17. Proceeds will go to the neonatal intensive care unit at Riley Hospital for Children.
Getting involved with the concert was not a tough decision for Riley: “I wanted to learn all the aspects that were involved in running a fundraiser.”
Being involved in Rock for Riley also helped Riley’s interest in service grow. As a med student, she has volunteered nationally and locally -- traveling to Birmingham, Ala., with Habitat for Humanity and serving on an alumni panel for prospective Science students.
“I know as an undergrad I always liked hearing what I should be doing now to help prepare me for my future,” she said. “You hear advice everywhere, but it’s nice to hear it from people who are actually doing what you want to be doing because it worked for them. Now as an alumna I like sharing my advice and perspective with undergraduates in the School of Science.”
Riley advises students interested in applying to medical school to pursue something that they’re interested in that stands out. She also encourages students to be aware of their strengths and weaknesses and be able to explain or talk about their undergrad experiences.
“In interviews, if you do have an area that’s lacking on your application they’ll want to know why,” she said. “It’s best to be able to address it rather than just shrug it off or hope it goes away.”