Major: Biology
Why did you choose your major?
I chose Biology because it was the one subject I felt like I was truly good at, which naturally drew me toward it as my major.
Would you recommend it to a future student? Why?
Yes, I would absolutely recommend it, especially for students who are curious about how life operates at its most fundamental levels. If you’re detail-oriented, enjoy hands-on work, and want a career where you are constantly learning, it’s a great choice. My best advice is to find great professors who are passionate about what they teach, it makes science much more engaging!
What are your future plans?
I plan to pursue my research further through graduate school, with the ultimate goal of establishing a career as a scientist. Following that, I aspire to transition into academia, where I can contribute as a biology professor.
Are there any particular experiences — in or out of the classroom — that have helped you identify that path?
One of the most pivotal experiences that helped solidify my path was participating in research through the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program as a McNair Scholar. This program provided me with an amazing faculty mentor (Dr. A), who guided me in exploring RNA thermometers both through bioinformatics and in the laboratory. Our research culminated in a publication this year in the International Journal of RNA!