Major: Biological Sciences
Why did you choose Biological Sciences as your major?
Coming into college, I knew I wanted to pursue a biology major because of my experience with the sciences in high school. Unlike chemistry and physics, I loved the biology classes I took and found myself wanting to learn more about the intricacies of human anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. Knowing that I wanted to go into a field of healthcare, I decided to start with the biological sciences major and see how I liked it. After starting college, I didn’t once consider switching out of the biological sciences major.
What did you like most about it?
I liked most that there’s such a large variety of classes available to take and that they are taught by experts in their fields. You don’t have to get stuck taking a class you have no interest in just for the purpose of a requirement because they can be fulfilled by multiple classes. I also liked that the major gave me a very strong foundation going into dental school, where the basic sciences curriculum is taught at a more advanced level and much faster pace.
What is your current position, what do you, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I am currently a 3rd year dental student at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. Our first two years consist mostly of lectures along with lab courses to help us train our hands and learn dental procedures on mannequins. Starting 3rd year, we are assigned patients and are responsible for their dental treatment. Everything from routine cleanings to filling cavities to root canals – if the patient needs it, we do it! My favorite part of being a dental student is that I have the privilege to help people. Though most people don’t like coming to the dentist, it is truly rewarding to be able to get a patient out of pain or improve a patient’s confidence by enhancing their smile.
Looking back, what classes or experiences at Rutgers would you point to as contributing to your successes?
Taking upper level science classes during my final year at Rutgers very much contributed to my success because I saw lots of the same material again in dental school. Also during my final year, I had the opportunity to be a Teaching Intern for Organic Chemistry. In this position, I held office hours and taught groups of students the principles of Organic Chemistry twice per week, which allowed me to develop my teaching skills.
What advice do you have for our current Arts and Sciences students?
Learn as much as you can while you can! You will never again have such easy access to learn from leading experts in so many different fields. And enjoy your time at Rutgers! There’s a reason why everyone says college is the best years of your life and why Rutgers alumni are so proud of their alma mater. RU Rah Rah!
