Majors: Biological Sciences, Nutrition
Minor: Music
How did you decide on your major?
I always loved learning about science in school growing up, so my desire to pursue a career in this field came naturally as my studies continued. Coming to Rutgers, I was immediately drawn to Biological Sciences as I wanted to not only prepare for a career in medicine, but also continue to explore the branches of science. My choice was solidified when I realized the flexible nature of the Biological Sciences major would allow me to choose the majority of the courses that I would take during my time at Rutgers. The opportunity to explore and take charge was one I couldn’t resist. I felt it was the best path for me to achieve both my academic and career goals.
What is it about your chosen field (and the department) that appeals to you?
Through my clinical experiences, I witnessed the multifaceted nature of being a physician: the ability to provide support and compassion to patients during challenging times, the collaboration involved when working with a team of healthcare professionals, the embodiment of an educator and a leader when facilitating hospital rounds, as well as the commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement. My respect and awe toward these skills and experiences inspire me to become a well-rounded physician who values both knowledge and compassion to best treat each individual patient
Do you have favorite class/professor within your major?
Amongst all the classes I took at Rutgers, Systems Physiology with Dr. Cassie Nelson is definitely one of my favorites. Taking this course further developed my interest in learning about the processes of the human body, which I am excited to continue studying in medical school. I thoroughly enjoyed not only the course content, but also the whole learning experience, as it was taught by an amazing professor who takes the time to get to know all her students. From watching her lecture videos to attending her office hours, I always looked forward to learning from Dr. Nelson.
What are your favorite academic experiences outside of your major?
My favorite academic experience I engaged in at Rutgers is conducting research in the Vicario Lab, where I investigated how epigenetic mechanisms and perineuronal nets regulate auditory processing. It was particularly thrilling to explore music scientifically as I grew up playing the piano and violin. I also have perfect pitch, which has always been a point of curiosity. My experiences in the Vicario Lab have led me to obtain other academic experiences, including receiving Aresty Undergraduate Research Fellowships, presenting my research posters at Aresty Undergraduate Research Symposiums, and completing my honors thesis. I am so grateful for this experience as it has not only deepened my connection to music, but also allowed me to develop important skills and grow in an academic setting.
What are your other Rutgers activities?
At Rutgers this year, I served as the President of Alpha Epsilon Delta (National Health Preprofessional Honor Society), President of Academic Success for the Honors College Scholar Peer Mentoring Program, and Director of Dancer Relations for Rutgers University Dance Marathon, all of which gave me the opportunity to not only improve my leadership skills, but also make a difference in and give back to these communities. I have additionally been a part of Rutgers Performing Dance Company since my sophomore year, and participated as a model at ChinaNite, an event hosted by Rutgers Chinese Student Organization, allowing me to continue my dance journey and feed my love for performing. Rutgers is filled with diverse organizations, and I am truly thankful for each activity I have participated in that made my experience at Rutgers a memorable one.
Outside of Rutgers, I excitedly took on numerous opportunities to better understand what a career in medicine entails. This includes being a medical scribe for the emergency department at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, medical assistant for an internal medicine practice, volunteer at Penn Medicine Princeton Health, and volunteer for Stein Hospice. Outside of medicine, I was a private music instructor teaching children how to play the piano and violin. While my clinical experiences were eye opening and inspiring, being able to share my passion for music with others has been so fulfilling; I hope to continue having these experiences moving forward.
What are your plans following graduation?
Following graduation, I will begin attending Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in August 2024. I am excited to begin the next chapter of my academic journey and am thrilled to be closer to achieving my aspiration of becoming a physician.
Anything else you would like to share?
Choosing to major in Biological Sciences did not only assist me in opening doors to numerous opportunities in and out of Rutgers, but also provided me with an amazing and supportive department. I continuously felt encouraged by the staff and advisors I spoke with as I strived to achieve my academic goals, as well as the friends who made me laugh even during the most stressful times. I know I will continue to cherish every memory and appreciate every relationship I have built within this community as I continue my academic journey after graduation.