Cape May Court House, NJ — A Cape May County Technical School District student who turned a childhood fascination with science into a top-ranked academic career will spend part of her summer attending two highly selective medical education programs, opening new opportunities as she pursues a future in medicine. Uliana Faustova, a junior in Cape Tech’s Allied Medical program, earned acceptance into both The Congress of Future Medical Leaders and the University of Pennsylvania’s Biomedical Research Academy after maintaining a 4.0 GPA and rising to first in her class.
The achievement marks another milestone for Faustova, whose interest in science began on her 11th birthday when her parents gave her a microscope. What started with examining onion cells and water samples evolved into a broader passion for chemistry, biology and healthcare, eventually shaping her goal of becoming a physician.
From Childhood Curiosity to Medical Ambitions
Faustova said she realized during high school that she wanted to combine her love of science with helping others, leading her to enroll in Cape Tech’s Allied Medical program. The hands-on curriculum gave her a closer look at healthcare careers while reinforcing the academic foundation needed for a future in medicine.
Now a junior, she credits consistency, discipline and a genuine enjoyment of learning for her success.
“It’s an honor and something I’m very grateful for,” Faustova said. “I’m proud of the work I’ve put in, but I also see it as motivation to continue growing rather than just focusing on a number or ranking.”
She added that organization, time management and determination have helped her navigate challenging academic demands while continuing to excel.
Key Points
• Cape Tech junior Uliana Faustova ranks first in her class with a 4.0 GPA.
• She will attend two prestigious medical education programs this summer.
• Faustova plans to study biochemistry before pursuing medical school.
This summer, Faustova will attend The Congress of Future Medical Leaders from June 24-26 at UMass Lowell near Boston. The National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists hosts the honors program for high-achieving students interested in medicine and biomedical research.
She will then participate in the University of Pennsylvania’s Biomedical Research Academy from July 11 through Aug. 1. The program introduces students to cellular, molecular and genetic biology through laboratory work, faculty presentations and research-focused investigations connected to human disease.
“While at both of these programs, I hope to gain deeper exposure to the medical field, learn from professionals, and better understand the different paths within healthcare and research,” Faustova said.
She said she looks forward to meeting physicians, researchers and fellow students interested in healthcare while also gaining hands-on experience in a college-level biomedical research environment.
Building Skills Beyond the Classroom
Faustova’s achievements extend beyond academics. She participates in Key Club, National Honor Society, Technical Honor Society and Student Government, while also competing in SkillsUSA’s Medical Terminology competition. Outside school, she plays piano, enjoys sailing and volunteers at Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional.
She said those activities have helped her develop leadership, teamwork, communication and discipline—skills she believes are essential both in education and in healthcare careers.
Faculty members at Cape Tech say her accomplishments reflect more than academic talent.
“Uliana wants to be a surgeon, and I believe she will be successful at anything she attempts,” Allied Medical instructor Rachel Wenker said. “Her character and perseverance make her exceptionally well prepared for whatever lies ahead.”
English teacher Monica Pleasants described Faustova as a student who continuously seeks opportunities for growth and enrichment.
“Uliana not only excels but sets a new bar for others,” Pleasants said. “She genuinely looks for advancement and enrichment. She wants to see and experience the world and is a consistent and active participant in her education.”
School counselor Marc Roesch also pointed to her dedication and determination as indicators of future success.
“For a student like Uliana, the potential for success in higher education and the medical field is clear,” Roesch said. “Her strong work ethic and determination will help her build a highly successful and distinguished career.”
Looking Ahead
Faustova plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry before attending medical school and earning a doctoral degree. She hopes to continue participating in research while exploring specialized medical fields. Among the careers she is considering are cardiac surgery, neurosurgery and anesthesiology.
Beyond clinical practice, she hopes to contribute to scientific research and medical innovation that could improve healthcare outcomes for future generations.
Cape Tech Superintendent Jamie Moscony said the school community takes pride in Faustova’s accomplishments and leadership.
“We are incredibly proud of Uliana and all that she has achieved,” Moscony said. “She truly embodies what it means to be a Cape Tech Hawk and has demonstrated the type of leadership that will continue to open doors for her as she pursues a bright future in the medical field.”
As she prepares for two intensive summer programs, Faustova remains focused on the long-term goal that began with a microscope and a childhood curiosity about how the world works. Her acceptance into nationally recognized medical programs offers an early glimpse into a future that educators believe could lead to significant contributions in medicine and research. The programs are scheduled to begin later this month, and Faustova continues preparing for the next stage of her academic journey.