Major: Biological Sciences
How did you decide on your major?
Growing up, I was always interested in science, and I knew that coming to Rutgers, I wanted to find a major that was heavily science-focused. Naturally, I was guided towards Biological Sciences because I enjoyed biology in high school, and it had the most overlap with the courses that I needed to take as a pre-med student. Although biology is a credit-intensive major, it has allowed me the most flexibility and opportunity to take the classes that I am interested in, and it was definitely the right fit for me.
What is it about your chosen field (and the department) that appeals to you?
Through extracurricular experiences, I have discovered a passion for medicine. I started volunteering at nursing homes in high school, and I learned that I enjoy helping and caring for others. To further my exploration of this field, I started conducting research on common diseases, learning more about the scientific and technical side of medicine. Medicine is a career full of meaningful service and intellectual stimulation, and I hope to utilize my dedication to help others to the best of my ability for a lifetime.
Do you have favorite class/professor within your major?
My favorite professor is Dr. Muniz. I took Honors General Chemistry 1 & 2 with him, and he was the best teacher I have had at Rutgers. He cares so much about his students, and he puts an emphasis on understanding all of the concepts behind the equations. His office hours were super helpful, and he always gave us lots of resources to practice outside of class. Because of his teaching, I was able to build a strong foundation in chemistry, and I always looked forward to attending class with Dr. Muniz.
What are your favorite academic experiences outside of your major?
I conduct research at Rutgers under the guidance of my principal investigator, Dr. Cynthia Koziol-White in the Rutgers Institute of Translational Medicine, where I study the potential causes of chronic asthma in donor lung samples. I have learned many crucial lab techniques, such as immunohistochemistry and microscopy, as well as data analysis. Research has taught me so many life skills that cannot be learned in a classroom. The dedication that my PIs and mentors have towards their research projects is inspiring, and it motivates me to work hard and follow the pursuit of knowledge. Not only have I learned technical skills, but I have also built up soft skills, including collaboration, teamwork, and I am very grateful for all the opportunities I've received to present my work at poster sessions and open mic talks.
What are your other Rutgers activities?
Outside of class, I enjoy going to cultural and social club events. I am on the executive board for Rutgers Chinese Student Organization (CSO), one of the oldest undergraduate-led cultural clubs on campus. This club is dedicated to fostering a community of acceptance and celebration of Chinese culture, through biweekly events for all Rutgers students to participate in. I’ve met some of my closest friends through CSO, and I highly recommend joining clubs outside of academic pursuits. Additionally, I also volunteer at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in the emergency department. This was an eye-opening opportunity for me because although I have volunteered at other hospitals, this was my first opportunity being a helper in the emergency department and working directly with nurses and doctors. Although it is a high stress environment, I have learned much about the routine tasks that healthcare professionals perform daily, as well as watching less common procedures.
What are your plans following graduation?
Following graduation, I anticipate taking a gap year to work and apply to medical school. I believe this is the best path for me so I can gain work experience and build up my resume to the best of my ability before applying. If I could give advice to an incoming freshman, I would definitely tell them to not rush through their undergraduate years. College only happens once, so everyone should make the best of it while they can.