with opportunities to pursue research and work closely with graduate students and principal investigators. In my experience with the chemistry department, I’ve had ample access to academic resources to help with my courses. My research experiences were hands on, and I attribute the helpful nature of the faculty to my success thus far. In the labs that I have researched in, it felt like the faculty valued my input and my development as a student. Could you describe your inspiration to pursue a medical career? I’ve always known that I wanted to pursue a career centered around helping others. This passion, combined with my love and curiosity for science, has encouraged me to seek out a career as a physician. I enjoy being challenged academically, which suits the field of medicine well. I have been inspired by other amazing health care providers that have pushed me to want to become a doctor. I hope to one day become the type of physician who advocates for equal access and quality care for all patients. Has ODU’s Chemistry department created any new inspirations for your continuing education? The faculty and staff in the chemistry department have inspired me through their rigorous research and pursuit of quality education. Some of my professors have been so encouraging and excited for me to learn, which has given me the self confidence to continue my education. In addition to my professors, my peers have helped me tremendously throughout my time at ODU. How does it make you feel that the university is committed to cultivating an environment by renovating the chemistry building for future chem students? The new chemistry building reflects ODU’s passion to educate future professionals in STEM. It is encouraging to know that ODU values the chemistry department and its contributions to the university. By providing a new, state of the art learning space, ODU is giving students the resources they need to succeed. How has your undergraduate research experience better prepared you for your medical career?
My undergraduate research experience has made me a more resourceful and independent student. Doing research taught me how to find information and teach myself complex content on my own. Research has also taught me how to be self-disciplined. The research environment isn’t as structured, and I learned how to pace myself to meet deadlines. Overall, my undergraduate research experience has made me more self-sufficient. Knowing how to find information on your own while also knowing when to ask for help is an important attribute of a future physician. If you could give any advice to a younger student who would also like to follow your steps in your educational journey, what would that be? I would tell younger students to pursue every opportunity they’re given. Even if it feels silly or useless, you can learn something new from every experience. Don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone either. It can be intimidating to put yourself out there and ask for new opportunities. I would encourage students to be persistent in pursuing experiences in research despite feeling discouraged sometimes. Most importantly, enjoy your experience and have fun.
