Why did you choose to attend UM?
When I was looking at colleges, I was dead set on "University of Arkansas; my mom convinced me to check out the University of Mississippi, and I fell in love. The atmosphere was so uplifting. When I walked onto the campus it felt like a huge community or even a family, which I didn't feel at the other colleges.
When I was looking at colleges, I was dead set on "University of Arkansas; my mom convinced me to check out the University of Mississippi, and I fell in love. The atmosphere was so uplifting. When I walked onto the campus it felt like a huge community or even a family, which I didn't feel at the other colleges.
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 the perfect major if you're fascinated by how life works at the molecular level, from medicine to metabolism. It combines biology and chemistry, so you'll need strong problem-solving skills and a curiosity for both subjects. Lab work is a big part of the major, so getting comfortable with hands-on experiments early on will help. If you’re passionate about research, medicine, or biotechnology, biochemistry opens the door to many exciting opportunities. I would also want them to know that it is not as scary as people make it out to be. It can be challenging, like any major, but also fun. You build a group with other chemistry majors, and you all help each other through it.
Biochemistry is the perfect major if you're fascinated by how life works at the molecular level, from medicine to metabolism. It combines biology and chemistry, so you'll need strong problem-solving skills and a curiosity for both subjects. Lab work is a big part of the major, so getting comfortable with hands-on experiments early on will help. If you’re passionate about research, medicine, or biotechnology, biochemistry opens the door to many exciting opportunities. I would also want them to know that it is not as scary as people make it out to be. It can be challenging, like any major, but also fun. You build a group with other chemistry majors, and you all help each other through it.
Why is your department a special place?
The chemistry and biochemistry department at UM is a special place because it fosters both innovation and community. Our professors are not only experts in their fields but also genuinely invested in student success, offering mentorship and research opportunities early on. The department provides access to cutting-edge labs, hands-on learning experiences, and a supportive environment where students can collaborate and grow. Whether you're interested in research, medicine, or industry, this department gives you the tools and support to succeed while making you feel like part of a scientific family.
The chemistry and biochemistry department at UM is a special place because it fosters both innovation and community. Our professors are not only experts in their fields but also genuinely invested in student success, offering mentorship and research opportunities early on. The department provides access to cutting-edge labs, hands-on learning experiences, and a supportive environment where students can collaborate and grow. Whether you're interested in research, medicine, or industry, this department gives you the tools and support to succeed while making you feel like part of a scientific family.
What class or professor has had the most impact on you?
Two professors who have had a huge impact on my college career are Dr. Rowland and Dr. Li. Dr. Rowland has helped me obtain so many opportunities, from research experiences to academic guidance, and has been an incredible mentor throughout my journey. Dr. Li, my undergraduate research professor, has deepened my understanding of organic chemistry and given me hands-on experience in the lab, which has been invaluable for my growth as a scientist. Both professors have shaped my passion for biochemistry and have shown me the real-world impact of what we learn in the classroom.
Two professors who have had a huge impact on my college career are Dr. Rowland and Dr. Li. Dr. Rowland has helped me obtain so many opportunities, from research experiences to academic guidance, and has been an incredible mentor throughout my journey. Dr. Li, my undergraduate research professor, has deepened my understanding of organic chemistry and given me hands-on experience in the lab, which has been invaluable for my growth as a scientist. Both professors have shaped my passion for biochemistry and have shown me the real-world impact of what we learn in the classroom.
What do you hope to do after graduation? What are your career goals/plans?
After graduation, I hope to either attend dental school or pursue a PhD program, depending on where my passion for research and patient care leads me. I’m particularly interested in how biochemistry applies to healthcare, whether through dentistry or advanced scientific research. No matter which path I choose, I want to use my knowledge to make a meaningful impact—whether that’s through improving patient care or contributing to scientific discoveries.
After graduation, I hope to either attend dental school or pursue a PhD program, depending on where my passion for research and patient care leads me. I’m particularly interested in how biochemistry applies to healthcare, whether through dentistry or advanced scientific research. No matter which path I choose, I want to use my knowledge to make a meaningful impact—whether that’s through improving patient care or contributing to scientific discoveries.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
I wish I knew that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. College is a time to explore, make mistakes, and grow, so don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Get involved early, ask for help when you need it, and take advantage of every opportunity—even the ones that seem intimidating. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and trust that you’ll find your path along the way.
I wish I knew that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. College is a time to explore, make mistakes, and grow, so don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Get involved early, ask for help when you need it, and take advantage of every opportunity—even the ones that seem intimidating. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and trust that you’ll find your path along the way.
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