Year in Review

Spring 2018

Second semester of my freshman year was filled with new experiences and challenges. I learned the true challenge of being enrolled in 18 credit hours, while also having a job and several involvements. I learned much about myself and my ability to work under pressure. This semester taught me that if I want something, I have to match my effort to how bad I want it. I have been very fortunate with my job and other opportunities which have come forth throughout the semester.

I work as a program coordinator for a volunteer program called Scientific Thinkers which serves as outreach to elementary schools in the Columbus area for the advancement of science. This job has made me very proud to be a STEM major at OSU, as well as very passionate about sharing my knowledge with others. This semester I decided to turn the program into a student organization which will be taking effect next semester. I look forward to continuing to improve the program as I continue on throughout my time at OSU.

This summer I will be doing research at Ohio’s branch campus in Wooster, OH. I am very fortunate to have this opportunity and look forward to enhancing my understanding of animal health. I will be studying a pig rotavirus, called RVC, which is predominantly seen in young piglets.

 

Click on Links Below to View Past Semesters:

Fall 2017

G.O.A.L.S.

Global Awareness: Being at Ohio State has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zones and look more seriously into study abroad programs. Throughout my college, CFAES, many programs are offered which cater to my major and career path. I am interested in studying in Australia or Costa Rica. Pursuing a study abroad would give me the opportunity to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for other countries and cultures.

Original Inquiry: Ohio State has revealed to me the importance and value behind research for a STEM major. Through a program I am a part of called LSAMP, I have learned more about the research process and how to pursue undergraduate research. I was able to participate in a summer-long research internship through LSAMP, which introduced me to the world of research here at OSU. I hope to eventually work in a research lab on campus during the academic year, and continue to pursue summer opportunities.

Academic Enrichment: In order to maximize my academic experience here at OSU, I am aiming to take a wide range of courses within my major. While I have the potential to graduate early, I want to be able to take full advantage of the opportunities here at OSU. I plan on using my senior year to take courses which will allow me to be a more well-rounded student and increase my preparation for professional school.

Leadership Development: I have been able to develop my leadership skills at OSU by being a part of the Barrett/Nosker Hall Council Executive Board, in which I serve as the representative for Biological Sciences Scholars and as the Sustainability Chair. This experience has allowed me to grow as a leader and seek opportunities in which I am able to use my skills. I am also the Selections chair for the Sophomore Class Honorary, Romophos. In addition, I am the coordinator of a STEM Education outreach program called Scientific Thinkers.

Service Engagement: I am the coordinator of an outreach program called Scientific Thinkers which aims to encourage the use of science at the elementary level. Every other week we visit Innis Elementary School, a public elementary in Columbus. We focus on teaching the kids fun science experiments in which they are able to get a more hands-on experience with science and how the world around them works.

OSU Wetlands Facility

Over the summer I participated in a bridge program called LSAMP, in which underrepresented minorities in STEM majors at OSU were exposed to the abundance of opportunities and resources available to us. In this picture, we were visiting OSU’s wetland facilities for our Environmental Science class, to study the health of the Olentangy River.

 

 

About Me

My name is Annika Diaz, I am from Upland, California, a small city about forty minutes east of Los Angeles. I am a second-year student at OSU in the Biological Sciences Scholars program and am studying Animal Biosciences, on the Pre-Vet track. After undergrad, I hope to pursue a DVM/Ph.D. dual degree program. My current career goal is to work at an academic institution where I am able to actively conduct research while also being directly involved with the veterinary medicine field.

Throughout high school, my goals were solidified through my service at both a horse rescue rehabilitation ranch and a humane society on mission trips. These experiences made me realize that there is so much need for passionate people to be the voices and care for helpless animals. I enjoy combining my passion for the care of animals with service and plan on being involved in service-driven organizations. I am also interested in undergraduate research and study abroad opportunities. I would like to study abroad in either Australia or South Africa.

In my time at OSU I have been a part of several organizations through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, including, Morrill Scholars, Tri-P, and Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation in STEM (LSAMP). All of the programs have empowered me to actively pursue my goals and ambitions here at Ohio State, as they provide an abundance of resources and opportunities for minorities. In addition to this, I am a member of Animal Science Community Alliance and Romophos Sophomore Class Honorary. These positions have allowed me to increase my leadership skills and have fun interacting with fellow residents.