Student Spotlight
Hometown: Urbandale, Iowa
Major: Biology
Minor: Psychology, Music
Why did you choose Iowa State University?
I chose Iowa university because it felt like a community. The faculty on campus were very welcoming and I felt like I would be very successful there.
How did you become interested in your major?
I have always been interested in going pre med, and biology allowed me to get all the knowledge I would need for that. I minored in Psychology, because I eventually want to pursue pediatrics as my speciality. Understanding how people think and act would be beneficial for pediatrics. I minored in music because I love music and it’s in important part of who I am.
What are your current goals following graduation?
My current goals are to apply to medical school and get accepted.
Campus activities: I have been involved with Iowa States women’s choir, Cantamus and Iowa States treble a cappella group Count Me In for all four year of college. Both groups allowed me to be a part of a community with people who love to sing. I have made life long friendships through this group. I’ve gained confidence and teamwork skills which are important for healthcare.
Work experience: I worked at MercyOne Des Moines as a phlebotomist, drawing and collecting blood from patients. I most enjoyed being able to work in a hospital and seeing the inpatient side of medicine. It’s given me experience that will be great for medical school.
Study Abroad: I studied abroad in Wales through the Study abroad program at Iowa State. I enjoyed being able to go with some friends and traveling to nine other countries! I am also studying abroad again for choir in June 2025! Traveling has taught me to be adaptable and independent, which will help me later in the future.
What are a few things you love about your major and department?
My favorite aspect about the Biology department is BEST. Being a peer mentor and and a biology student, BEST was the best way to help and welcome students to adjust to college and their new major. We built relationships and had amazing advice.
How would you fill in the blank for high school students interested in your field?
“You’re going to love studying the sciences at Iowa State because ….”
You get to dissect a bunch of animals in BIOL 212
Do you have an example of how a professor or staff member has supported you at Iowa State?
In physics 2, I was initially struggling. I used to go to Dr. Fretwell’s office everyday after class to get extra help. She would take time and explain everything to me in a way I would understood, and I ended up passing that class with an A.
Last comments:
My best advice for new students is… take it one step at a time. Where ever you want to go, you’ll eventually get there. Use all the resources Iowa state has to offer like the success center, tutoring and much more. It’s really easy to get overwhelmed thinking about everything, but if you take it one step at a time it seems much more manageable.