Next Gen Inspiration: UAG’s Koziel and Berliner

The UAG School of Medicine takes immense pride in the accomplishments of its alumni, who continually shine in their respective fields, serving as beacons of inspiration for the upcoming generation. On November 4th, 2023, during our Student Information Session in Doral, Florida, we had the privilege of hosting two distinguished UAG alumni, Dr. Amanda Koziel and Dr. Neil Berliner. Their presence not only enriched the event but also left an indelible mark on prospective students.

Dr. Amanda Koziel, with her extensive medical expertise and passion for global health, has been an exemplary UAG alumna. Raised in southern New Jersey, her journey toward a career in medicine took her from the United States to Argentina and eventually to the hallowed halls of UAG. Her experiences at UAG nurtured her Spanish fluency and deep cultural knowledge, empowering her to serve underserved communities within the United States.

At our Student Information Session, Dr. Koziel had the unique opportunity to share her UAG experience with the prospective students in attendance. Her journey from undergraduate studies to becoming a certified specialist in Family Medicine and HIV Medicine is a testament to the diverse and impactful pathways that can emerge from a UAG education. The insights she provided were invaluable, and her commitment to bridging healthcare disparities served as an inspiration to all.

Dr. Neil Berliner, another distinguished UAG alumnus, brought a different shade of excellence to the event. With a background that includes not only medicine but also a thriving comedy career, Dr. Berliner has consistently showcased the versatility of UAG alumni.

Dr. Neil Berliner, a distinguished UAG alumnus, stands as a pioneer in both psychiatry and comedy. Since 1988, he has been in private practice in psychiatry in New York City, and in 2016, he became the medical director of "Bridging Access to Care" in Brooklyn. Notably, he was among the first psychiatrists in New York to use neurofeedback for treating Attention Deficit Disorder. In 2014, he returned to UAG to lecture on psychopharmacology, sharing his knowledge and expertise.

Dr. Neil Berliner illuminated the possibilities within a UAG education with his multifaceted career. His pioneering work in psychiatry, including being one of the first psychiatrists in New York to incorporate neurofeedback for treating Attention Deficit Disorder, showcases the innovative spirit that UAG fosters. Additionally, his role as the first Comedy-Writer-in-Residence for The Comedy Cures Foundation, a charity organization supported by comedy legends like Jerry Seinfeld, embodies the creativity and compassion that UAG alumni bring to the world.

The Student Information Session was not just about sharing their journeys. Dr. Koziel and Dr. Berliner had the chance to network with prospective students, answering questions, providing guidance, and forging connections. These interactions are invaluable for aspiring students who seek insight into what lies ahead.

Moreover, the alumni meeting with UAG's Alumni Coordinator, Scarlett Thomas, was a pivotal moment. The conversation continued over a meaningful brunch, where the alumni shared their journey, experiences, and accomplishments. This meeting symbolizes the UAG alumni network's commitment to supporting and mentoring the next generation of professionals.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Amanda Koziel and Dr. Neil Berliner for their unwavering support and dedication to their alma mater. Their participation in the Student Information Session was not only informative but also inspirational. By sharing their experiences and insights, they have helped pave the way for prospective students to dream big and achieve greatness.

At UAG, we take immense pride in our alumni, and their accomplishments reflect the high standards of excellence that we strive for. We look forward to seeing more UAG alumni continue to make a positive impact on the world and inspire generations to come. Thank you, Dr. Koziel and Dr. Berliner, for your exceptional contributions.