Ohio State is known as a city within a city, Columbus, which provides unique opportunities, but also encompasses 60 thousand students. When I was applying to The Ohio State University the large student body was daunting. The idea of becoming “just a number” in a 500 person general chemistry class caused me anxiety at first. However there are numerous resources that the university offers to make the large school feel small. One of the most influential programs that I am involved in is the Honors and Scholars program. I am part of the Biological Sciences Scholar community and it has afforded me so many unique challenges and opportunities throughout my time at OSU thus far. Through the program I have had the opportunity to live amongst peers with similar interests, which provides a great support system as I begin my time at OSU. The H&S program also helps provide structure to outline my future plans as they align with the H&S G.O.A.L.S. These goals include involvement with Global Awareness, Original Inquiry, Academic Enrichment, Leadership Development, and Service Engagement, that will produce a well rounded person by graduation. My specific goals are outlined below:

Global Awareness: I grew up right on the outskirts of Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, and a center for domestic and international affairs. I have been exposed to a wide variety of cultures and this has allowed me to cultivate and develop an appreciation for diversity and each individual’s unique differences. However, I plan to continue to explore diversity by taking classes that are centered on cultural diversity and comparison between different parts of the world.

Original Inquiry: Since my future goal is to do genetic research as a career after Medical school, understanding the research process by engaging in the opportunities OSU has available is very important. Research begins with effective in class participation, and extends beyond. Many of the faculty at OSU are engaged in research themselves and are usually willing to discuss it with you. Professors are always looking for students to work in their labs and these are great opportunities to work with incredible mentors. Also there is the Wexner Medical Center and the James Cancer Research Center on campus, both offering volunteer positions.

Academic Enrichment: Honors & Scholars students pursue academic excellence through rigorous curricular experiences beyond the university norm both in and out of the classroom. Being a scholar has allowed me to immerse myself in my studies. I am surrounded by like-minded peers who are willing to engage in collaborative thinking to improve the learning experience for everyone. My short term goal is to earn a high GPA and become an honors student in addition to a Biological Science Scholar. The academic aspect is not the only important factor, but since my goal is to go to medical school following the completion of undergraduate studies my academics are of paramount importance.

Leadership Development: In the medical field it is incredibly important to hone leadership and communication skills. I have never been an outgoing person, however I understand the value in becoming involved in leadership positions. I am in many clubs this year as a freshman and when I am an upperclassman I will apply to be on the leadership boards to become even more deeply involved.

Service Engagement: Honors & Scholars students commit to service to the community, and through the program there are many science related opportunities offered. I have joined OSU’s Circle K club, which is the collegiate level of a club that I was actively involved in throughout high school, called Key club. We perform a wide variety of service in the community that can be tailored to fit my specific interests. I have also applied to be a volunteer at the Medical Center on campus, and unfortunately I was not assigned for the fall semester, but I will apply for the spring as well.