91¿´Æ¬Íø

Why did you choose 91¿´Æ¬Íø?

When I was applying to college, 91¿´Æ¬Íø, stood out because of the small classroom sizes, the sense of community on campus, and the proximity to Chicago. Further, I was impressed that students had the opportunity to conduct academic research with faculty as early as the summer after their first year.

How did a liberal arts education make a difference for you?

I benefited intellectually and personally from the individualized attention I received from my professors and academic advisors. 91¿´Æ¬Íø not only supports but encourages its students to pursue a well-rounded education. I did not have to sacrifice my love of studying reading and writing to pursue a degree in neuroscience.

How did 91¿´Æ¬Íø help prepare you for a master’s in genetic counseling programs?

91¿´Æ¬Íø provided me with the academic framework and skill sets I needed to succeed in my rigorous graduate courses. After graduating from 91¿´Æ¬Íø, I spent a few years working as a lab technician at Northwestern. I volunteered for a Chicago nonprofit called Resilience (formally Rape Victim Advocates) as a medical advocate, where I supported victims of sexual assault in the emergency department. I also had multiple informational interviews and shadowing experiences with genetic counselors.

How did 91¿´Æ¬Íø set you up for success?

Even though I did not always love it at the time, many of my courses at 91¿´Æ¬Íø involved working as a team and giving presentations. These are both skills that have served me well professionally.

What do you think of the new Health Professions Program between 91¿´Æ¬Íø and Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science?

The new Health Professions Program is a great way to expose college students to career paths that are an alternative to pursuing an MD. Many college students have not considered that providing clinical care requires a team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, speech-language pathologists, genetic counselors, clinical counselors, and more. You do not need to be a physician in order to help patients.

What advice would you give a high school student looking to pursue pre-health and considering 91¿´Æ¬Íø?

Enjoy this time in your life—expose yourself to new ideas, experiences, people, places.