Major: Biology
Minor: Public Health and Chemistry
Why did you choose your major and your minors?
I chose my major and minors due to my interest in the Medical Field. Biology provides a solid foundation in the life sciences and these foundational concepts are essential for understanding the human body, its functions, and the mechanisms of diseases. Many healthcare careers, such as medicine, require a strong background in biology. By majoring in biology and minoring in Chemistry and Public Health, I can fulfill the pre-medical or pre-health requirements necessary for admission to professional schools and it has helped provide me with the necessary knowledge to succeed in these programs.
These majors and minors have also given me the opportunity to engage in research projects such as the Undergraduate Summer Research programs. Participating in research has enhanced my critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. It also has allowed me to gain hands-on experience and contribute to scientific advancements in healthcare-related fields.
Would you recommend your major and minors to a future student? Why?
I would recommend my Major and/or minors to a future student. I would recommend a biology major to a future student because it offers a broad foundation, diverse career options, research opportunities, practical skills, relevance and impact, personal growth, and preparation for further education. It is a field that allows students to explore their interests, make a difference, and contribute to scientific advancements and societal well-being. The minors of Chemistry, Public Health, and the Honors program also help to build upon a strong and versatile foundation of education that can look at different viewpoints and challenge a student’s critical thinking skills.
What are your future plans?
My future plans consist of applying and attending an MD or DO program after obtaining my undergraduate degree. I hope to pursue a career in anesthesiology and work toward helping those who are in need. To me, being a doctor is rewarding because it allows you to make a positive impact on people’s lives, build meaningful relationships, embrace intellectual challenges, collaborate with a healthcare team, experience personal and professional growth, and receive recognition and respect.
Are there any particular experiences — in or out of the classroom — that have helped you identify that path?
My educational career here at Cal Lutheran has helped to solidify my interest in a medical career by providing academic exploration, exposure to healthcare-related experiences, mentorship and guidance, peer interactions, research opportunities, and pre-medical resources and support. My participation in volunteer opportunities, provided through Cal Lutheran, at a local hospital helping nurses and working with patients on their path to a healthy recovery, has also held a significant aspect of my determination in pursuing this career.
Ashley is a recipient of a 2023 John Stauffer Research Fellowship in the Chemical Sciences. With her faculty mentor, Katherine Hoffmann, PhD, she is working on a project titled, “Substrate Binding Assay for Desferrioxamine D (DesD)“.