Rochester City Scholar Poised to Graduate from Med School | April 2025
Congratulations to RIT alumna Diamond Guy ‘21 (biomedical sciences) and a Destler/Johnson Rochester City Scholar. She will graduate in May from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. Guy plans to pursue a career in dermatology, with a specific interest in pediatric dermatology. She says the people and the programs at RIT provided her with a strong foundation for success and she has some advice for other students.
How has life been after RIT?
Life after RIT has been an incredible journey! Since graduating, I’ve been fully immersed in medical school, growing both personally and professionally. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding experience, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to learn, build meaningful friendships, connect with mentors, and give back to the community. My time at RIT provided a strong foundation, filled with opportunities to grow and an abundance of support from fellow Tigers, professors, and staff. That environment allowed me to thrive both at RIT and now in medical school!
What area of medicine are you going into?
I’m pursuing a career in dermatology, with a specific interest in pediatric dermatology. My goal is to work in an academic setting while continuing my passion for community service. I will do my residency here at the U of R.
What does Rochester City Scholars mean to you?
Rochester City Scholars is more than just a scholarship program—it’s a testament to the power of community, resilience, and opportunity. Being an RCS scholar lifted a huge financial burden, allowing me to focus my energy on personal growth and giving back to those around me. This opportunity affirmed that students from Rochester can and will succeed when given the right resources and encouragement. I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Destler, Dr. Johnson, and the entire RCS team for creating and sustaining this life-changing program.
Why is giving back to Rochester so important to you?
Rochester, NY is home—it’s where I grew up. Specifically, I was raised in the inner city, where my family and I lived in poverty and was surrounded by many negative distractions, such as violent crime. Despite not having much, my parents instilled a strong sense of servanthood in my siblings and me from a young age. We served meals to the unhoused, performed uplifting dances at community events, and taught youth arts and crafts. These early experiences opened my eyes to the deep disparities in my community, especially in healthcare.
While Rochester isn’t perfect, it’s where my dreams were nurtured, and where so many people invested in me. Giving back is my way of addressing those disparities, honoring the support I received, and ensuring that future generations have access to mentorship, education, and healthcare. Whether through community health outreach or mentoring students, I want to be part of Rochester’s continued growth and success.
Anything else you want to share?
To current Rochester City Scholars, I want to remind you: don’t give up on your dreams, don’t sell yourself short, and don’t let anyone else dictate your path—this is your journey. Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, whether it’s family, friends, or mentors who have your best interests at heart.
Be intentional with your time—it’s a precious, nonrefundable gift. Plan your future with strategy and purpose, but don’t get lost in the details of how everything will work out. When life feels overwhelming, focus on the present: take things one step at a time, one class at a time, one day at a time. That mindset carried me through college, along with my faith, my family, and the support of those who believed in me.
You can do this. You will do this. I’m rooting for you every step of the way!
Submitted by Marykatherine Woodson, director MCAS