Major: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major because I enjoyed classes like physics and chemistry in high school so I went out on a limb choosing Biochemistry and I ended up loving it.
Would you recommend it to a future student? Why?
I would 100% recommend the biochemistry major as well as any stem major. You really only scrape the surface of science academia in high school so just choosing any stem major that remotely interests you could turn out to be a match. The more you immerse yourself in the science language and basic theories the easier it is to learn more and develop critical thinking strategies to help with upper-division studies. My advice is to stick with it no matter how challenging a stem major can get, you will surprise yourself with what you can accomplish if you truly have a passion for science.
What are your future plans?
My future plans after I graduate are to follow my benchwork research passion and find a research position in either cancer biology or molecular-based genetics. Along with research, I want to find a job working with an underserved population in medicine whether it is with AmeriCorps or working at a free clinic to gain perspective and be able to connect with patients from all backgrounds. After a year of this, I will apply to medical school with the ambition to pursue Orthopedic Surgery and someday work/run a rare cancer research lab.
Are there any particular experiences — in or out of the classroom — that have helped you identify that path?
I knew I wanted to become a doctor when I was going through college enjoying my courses and learning more about life as a doctor from clinical shadowing, but when I lost my brother in the fall of my junior year to one of the rarest forms of cancer known to mankind, called NUT carcinoma, I knew I wasn’t going to stop until I became a doctor. This life experience completely changed my perspective and meaning of life and has 100% solidified the career path to dedicate my life to the field of medicine and lifelong learning to provide patients with the best form of treatment and to help navigate the vulnerabilities of going through the health care system.
Also, I like to stay in the loop with modern cancer biology research advancements and help my family raise awareness with our foundation of rare young adult cancers that are severely underfunded and affect many families around the world. What I had to go through in the fall of my junior year and still finish the semester and stick with the school was by far the hardest thing to get through in my life, which confirms this is my calling and the best way I can honor my brother.