Undergraduate

Kristine Van

  • Class

    Class of 2027
  • Program

    B.A. Biochemistry; minors Biology, Spanish ( College of Liberal Arts )
  • Quick Intro

    Kristine is majoring in Biochemistry with minors in Biology and Spanish. On campus, she is a member of the Luckyday Scholars Program as a Peer mentor and Programming Coordinator, and a member of PERIODUM.
Kristine smiling at the camera, standing in front of a projector screen.

Why did you choose to attend UM?

I chose to attend UM because of all the resources and opportunities UM has to offer. There are so many free resources dedicated to students to make the University feel like home, such as Supplemental Instruction, tutoring, research opportunities, the health clinic, the mental health center, and so much more. There are also clubs and organizations for everyone to join, and you can find your people anywhere. The University is here to help you succeed on your journey and wants to support you along the way. 

I chose to attend UM because of all the resources and opportunities UM has to offer. There are so many free resources dedicated to students to make the University feel like home, such as Supplemental Instruction, tutoring, research opportunities, the health clinic, the mental health center, and so much more. There are also clubs and organizations for everyone to join, and you can find your people anywhere. The University is here to help you succeed on your journey and wants to support you along the way. 

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?

Biochemistry is very fascinating. It’s a combination of chemistry and biology, and being able to apply both concepts to real-world problems. It’s very interesting to learn about how things work in the body on the molecular level, and it prepares you well for a career in healthcare or research. Don’t be scared. Take advantage of the opportunities the chemistry department gives, such as leadership positions, and communicate with professors, advisors, upperclassmen, and mentors about your worries.  

Biochemistry is very fascinating. It’s a combination of chemistry and biology, and being able to apply both concepts to real-world problems. It’s very interesting to learn about how things work in the body on the molecular level, and it prepares you well for a career in healthcare or research. Don’t be scared. Take advantage of the opportunities the chemistry department gives, such as leadership positions, and communicate with professors, advisors, upperclassmen, and mentors about your worries.  

Why is your department a special place?

The Chemistry Department is a special place to meet other students who have the same interests and career goals as you. It’s also a welcoming place where you can easily talk with your professors about research opportunities or if you are struggling in your classes. Everyone in the department is amazing, and they want you to succeed in whatever you do next. 

The Chemistry Department is a special place to meet other students who have the same interests and career goals as you. It’s also a welcoming place where you can easily talk with your professors about research opportunities or if you are struggling in your classes. Everyone in the department is amazing, and they want you to succeed in whatever you do next. 

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

Dr. Gerald Roland is a phenomenal organic chemistry professor. He is very welcoming and open to everyone coming to his office hours and asking questions. He is very personable and has a strong passion for the subject. He explains topics and covers the material very well. He works with the Supplemental Instruction Leaders to effectively get the students engaged and learn the material as best as they can. He really wants everyone to succeed and prepares you well for future tests such as the MCAT or DAT. 

Dr. Gerald Roland is a phenomenal organic chemistry professor. He is very welcoming and open to everyone coming to his office hours and asking questions. He is very personable and has a strong passion for the subject. He explains topics and covers the material very well. He works with the Supplemental Instruction Leaders to effectively get the students engaged and learn the material as best as they can. He really wants everyone to succeed and prepares you well for future tests such as the MCAT or DAT. 

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

After graduation, I plan on going to medical school. I would love to become a physician one day and serve disadvantaged populations. As a first-generation American and college student, I want to help people who are immigrants, low-income, and minorities, and educate them about the importance of healthcare. 

After graduation, I plan on going to medical school. I would love to become a physician one day and serve disadvantaged populations. As a first-generation American and college student, I want to help people who are immigrants, low-income, and minorities, and educate them about the importance of healthcare. 

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

One thing I wish I knew as an incoming freshman is that it is okay to be unsure of what you want. However, it makes it easier in the long run to learn about yourself and what makes you who you are as a person. Experience as much life as possible, be open, meet new people from all walks of life, and have fun in the process.  

One thing I wish I knew as an incoming freshman is that it is okay to be unsure of what you want. However, it makes it easier in the long run to learn about yourself and what makes you who you are as a person. Experience as much life as possible, be open, meet new people from all walks of life, and have fun in the process.  

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