Harveen Thind

Why did you choose to attend UM?

I chose to attend UM because of the environment and relationships between students and faculty. The faculty here that I have met are always ready to help, and if you put in the time with them, they truly care about your success. Also, UM has a very collaborative student body. All of my peers share opportunities that arise and collaborate to succeed in their academic careers. I think this environment really encourages one to do their best both socially and academically.

What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they are interested in pursuing that field of study?

As a Biochemistry major, I would want you to know that this major is not impossible. I am involved in several extracurriculars while also excelling in my courses for this major. I love how I can see the connections between biology and chemistry courses through this major. It allows me to develop strengths in both of these fields of study. A biochemistry degree can help you grow in several areas, and I think that you should really view university as a chance to grow exponentially, as much as you can. 

Why is your department a special place?

My department is a special place because of the students in it. All of the students involved in the chemistry department or taking courses in this department are very similar to you. They all have big hopes and aspirations for their future careers and are very eager to reach those goals. This environment, made up of bold, eager students, encourages you to try harder yourself. The faculty in this department also encourages self-betterment. They challenge you to take their coursework head-on and speak to them about it for deeper understanding. 

What class or professor has had the most impact on you?

My freshman year, I took Dr. Eftink for General Chemistry I. Although he is retired now, he had a great impact on my academic career. His course was hard, and I had to completely relearn how to study, but he was always open to giving study tips and extra problems. He cared that we learned the material, not that we just did well on tests. He would always stop to say hello if he saw us outside of class and would tell you about his own academic career from years ago. You could tell he truly cared about Biochemistry and Chemistry, which made me realize that I didn't just want to take these classes for my major, I wanted to appreciate them and use them in my daily life like he did. 

What do you hope to do after graduation? What are your career goals/plans?

After graduation, I hope to go to medical school. I want to have a career as a doctor, hopefully working in Mississippi. It is important for me to better the state I live in, as I have lived here my whole life and gotten my education here. 

What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self (about the general college experience)?

As an incoming freshman, I wish I knew that professors are not as intimidating as they seem. I never went to office hours or got to know my professors. As I started doing that, I realized that professors are very open and are extremely helpful in giving advice. As a pre-med, it is easy to feel lost in the crowd or behind, but professors can help you find opportunities and can also help you succeed in their classes.