DLS Student Ambassador
- Amanda Pan
- Graduation Year: 2027
- Major: Biological Sciences
- Hometown: Basking Ridge, NJ
- Career Interest: I’m interested in pursuing a career in surgery, with a particular focus in either Orthopedics or Ophthalmology.
- Fun Fact: I am passionate about fitness and nutrition, and I love staying active through running, lifting, and playing sports. Whether it’s golfing on the weekends, shooting around with my field hockey stick in my free time, or snowboarding in the winter, staying active is a big part of my lifestyle. Outside of that, I love traveling and exploring new places all around the world. Experiencing different cultures and ways of life continually broadens my perspective and helps keep me curious and open-minded!
- What was your favorite class and why?:
Genetics with Dr. Soliman has definitely been one of the best classes I’ve taken so far. The material was super interesting, and I loved how in-depth we went with each topic. What truly set the class apart, however, was its collaborative format. Rather than passively listening to lectures, we worked in small problem-solving groups each session, which made the learning process much more engaging and hands-on. It not only challenged me to think more critically and apply concepts in real time but also created a supportive environment where I could connect with my classmates on a deeper level. The people I met in that class are still some of my closest friends!
- What other Rutgers activities and extracurricular activities do you participate in?:
At Rutgers, I conduct research in the Kwan Laboratory, investigating the mechanisms of hearing loss and exploring potential therapeutic strategies to protect or restore auditory function. I also work as an Organic Chemistry Teaching Intern, where I design and lead problem-solving sessions to help students navigate challenging concepts and develop stronger critical thinking skills. In addition, I mentor younger pre-health students as an Alpha Delta Epsilon (AED) Peer Mentor, offering guidance as they plan their academic and professional paths. Aside from that, I work as a Medical Assistant in an Ophthalmology practice, assisting with both patient care and clinical operations.