Undergraduate School and degree(s): High Point University; Bachelor’s of Science in Biology- Health Science Concentration, Minor in Forensic Science
Long-Term Goals and why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long-term goal is to become a medical examiner. I chose the MSBS to prepare me for my journey into Medical School. I will find purpose in providing closure after unexpected deaths take place.
Involvement: High Point University’s Best Buddies Chapter; TriBeta Biology Honor Society; Natural Science Fellow at High Point University; Presidential Scholar at High Point University; Toxicology Internship at Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office; Undergraduate Research in Phylogenetic Patterns of Anthocyanin Distribution in Oak Species
Hobbies: Painting, hiking, and traveling.
Undergraduate School and degree(s): Christopher Newport University; Bachelors of Science in Cellular, Molecular and Physiological Biology, Minor in Leadership Studies
Long-Term Goals and why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long term goals are to attend dental school and pursue a career in General Dentistry. I chose the BMS program in order to prepare myself for the rigors of dental school and to further my knowledge after taking a gap year post receiving my undergraduate degree. After careful research, the BMS program would give me ample opportunities to explore various biomedical studies, as well as, the opportunity to partake in hands-on learning and aid me in studying for the DAT.
Involvement: During my gap year, I worked as a bartender and manager at a family restaurant. During my time at CNU, I was the president of the pre-dental club and held various leadership positions in my sorority, Alpha Sigma Alpha.
Hobbies: When I am not studying or working, I enjoy reading and watching tv/movies and also regularly going to the gym or on runs.
Undergraduate school & degree(s): Appalachian State University; Bachelors of Science, Natural Sciences.
Long term goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My current long-term goal is to delve into the field of neuroscience where I hope to explore neuroimaging in psychedelic drug development. Pursuing a career after obtaining a degree in Biomedical Sciences I hope to make a meaningful impact on mental health treatment and engage in interdisciplinary collaboration at the intersection of neuroscience, psychiatry and pharmacology. I am passionate about the interconnectedness of the mind and body and the possibilities alternative medicine may hold. I aim to go into a career that is continuously evolving and there is always something new to be learned.
Involvement: Shadowed Cone Health Moses Cone OB/GYN, Undergraduate Research Assistant (Dysmenorrhea), Volunteer for children with disabilities through a therapeutic equestrian riding program, worked as Clinical Massage Assistant for a holistic integrative treatment facility.
Hobbies: Reading and participating in book clubs, Drawing & crafting, Working out and being involved in local running clubs, Yoga and Pilates/personal fitness, Going on long walks, Volunteering, Environmental activism, Hanging out with my cats, Entrepreneurship.
Undergraduate Degrees: Southwestern University (TX) Bachelor of Art in Communication Studies; minor in Business
Long-term goal and why I chose the MS in Biomedical Sciences program: My long-term goal is to attend dental school and pursue oral surgery. Knowing that I want to attend dental school and was not a science major in my undergraduate career, I chose the MS in Biomedical sciences program to strengthen my clinical and research skills. I also want to develop a more robust knowledge and understanding of the biological sciences.
Involvement: NCAA women’s tennis, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Delta Delta Delta, Dental Shadowing, College at the Stone Female VP, Seasonal Food and Clothing drive committee member, Food Pantry Volunteer
Hobbies: tennis, running/ hiking, snow skiing, spending time with friends and family, traveling, Pilates, bible study
Undergraduate schools & degree(s): NC State University, Bachelor of Science in Zoology and Biochemistry
Long-term goals and why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences program: Throughout my studies in humans and animals, I was always fascinated by the various mechanisms diseases or trauma use to cause harm. Consequentially, discovering or refining novel therapeutics to mitigate that harm has significant appeal. I chose this program predominantly for the smaller cohort sizes, accelerated timeline, and the quality of the facilities and educators.
Involvement: University Honors Program, volunteer at NC State Turtle Rescue and Wake County Animal Center, teaching assistant for Animal Behavior course, research technician in Miranda Lab studying cell division, intramural basketball
Hobbies: basketball, golf, making music, video games, hanging out with my dogs and lizard
Undergraduate School & degree(s): Winston Salem State University, Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Microbiology.
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My primary long-term goal is to establish a career as a Medical Doctor or Physician Assistant, focusing on primary care services within rural and medically underserved communities in North Carolina. I am committed to remaining actively engaged in my community, promoting health education, and advancing preventative care practices. I chose to attend High Point University’s Biomedical Science Program because of the advanced, innovative technology and simulations they use to give their students the full experience. The program’s rigor and pace align well with my day-to-day life and requirements needed to obtain my next goal of being a medical provider.
Involvement: Middle-grade science teacher, Church, NC Teacher Residency, volunteer at the Community Care Center and Dance team Coach.
Undergraduate school & degree(s): Morehouse College, Bachelor of Science in Biology.
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long-term goals are to attend medical school and become an orthopedic surgeon. My ultimate goal is to serve as a surgeon for professional athletes. I chose the BMS program to gain greater in-depth knowledge of the complicated biological processes in the human body while being prepared for the rigor of medical school and working in the medical field.
Involvement: Worked for the Mecklenburg County Public Health Department and researched health disparities in underserved communities, worked as a lifeguard, internship, and clinical experience in physical therapy and rehabilitation, and worked as an alum advisor for the Wake Forest College LAUNCH program.
Hobbies: Scuba diving, photography
Undergraduate school and degree(s): High Point University; Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science, Minor in Healthcare Management
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long-term career goal is to work in the medical field, ideally as a Physician Assistant or in a similar clinical role where I can directly help patients. I’ve always had a passion for science and healthcare, and I want a career that allows me to combine both while making a real impact on people’s lives.
Involvement: Leadership team member for High Point University Track & Field, Healthcare Chair for the HPU Volunteer Center, and a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).
Hobbies: Running track, working out, volunteering, journaling, spending time with friends and family, and listening to Rod Wave.
Undergraduate school & degree(s): Ohio State University, Bachelor of Neuroscience
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long-term goal is to become a PA and help patients overcome their battles with empathy, compassion, and expert knowledge! I chose HPU because I love the North Carolina sun, the BMS program specifically because I believe it will help me expand knowledge and experience as I pursue my future career goals. I love Science
Involvement: Neuroscience ambassador at OSU, Nationwide Children’s Hospital volunteer, Pharmacy Technician
Hobbies: Hanging out with friends, traveling, working out, playing with my dogs
Undergraduate school & degree(s): University of Denver; Bachelors of Science in Biochemistry, Minors in Biology and Business Administration.
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long term goals are to attend a dental school in NC as well as open my own dental practice in the future. With my ultimate goal in school being attending dental school, I choose the BMS program in order to bolster my knowledge in biomedical sciences as well as prepare me for the rigors of dental school by completing a graduate level degree.
Involvement: I work as a pharmacy technician and dental assistant at my local free health clinic. I also work as a office manager in some capacity as well.
Hobbies: Scuba Diving, Hunting, Fishing, Taxidermy, Restoring fossilized shark teeth, golf
Undergraduate school & degree(s): High Point University, Bachelor of Science in Biology, Minor in Chemistry
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long-term goal is to become a genetics researcher to aid in decreasing fetal death rates. I chose the BMS program at HPU to expose me to graduate level laboratory and research experience before pursuing a doctorate degree in Genetics.
Involvement: Presidential Scholars Program, Natural Science Fellowship
Hobbies: Playing with my cats, hanging out with my friends, and watching TV.
Undergraduate school & degree(s)– Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Bachelor of Criminal Justice.
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program– My long-term goal is to go to Medical School to acquire efficient medical skills to help the homeless, less fortunate, and populations in underdeveloped countries receive the healthcare they need to enjoy the quality of life, while also spreading the lovingkindness of God through the medical skills I have learned. I chose the MSBS program to better equip myself for medical school and prepare myself for the graduate level material that will be presented before me. I chose the High Point University Biomedical Sciences program because they offer great resources to contribute to molding me into a potential medical school candidate and will challenge me to think more critically.
Involvement- Shadowed at Wake Forest Emergency department, Undergraduate campus tour guide, shadowed Autopsies at Tallahassee memorial hospital, Big Sister Little Sister (BSLS) community service organization as secretary, internship and clinical experience with various EMS stations working as an EMT in training, worked as medical administration for primary care and the emergency department on Air force and Army military bases.
Hobbies- Singing, playing guitar and piano, traveling, going to bible study, spending time with my family and friends, trying foods from other cultures, pottery and painting, being active and going on hikes.
Undergraduate school & degree(s): University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Bachelor of Science in Health Systems Management, Minor in Africana Studies (Pre-Dental Concentration)
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at HPU to enhance my academic readiness, have more current science courses, and gain exposure to research. The knowledge and skills I acquire from both the classroom and internship will help me become a more well-rounded applicant. Additionally, I was drawn to this in-person program because it aligns with my preference for hands-on learning. As a visual learner, I thrive in environments where I can actively engage with the material and professors. Ultimately, my long term goal is to matriculate into dental school, serve as a dentist in the military before opening my own practice in an underserved community.
Involvement: NCO in the U.S. Air Force, digital lab technician, mentor at Promise Youth Development, routine volunteer at NC MOM Clinics and the Community Care Center, pre-dental club, Leadership Fellows, Programs in Leadership & Organizational Training (PILOT), Health Systems Management Association (HSMTA), Women’s Leadership Development Program, volunteer note-taker, American Student Dental Association, and Undergraduate Student National Dental Association.
Hobbies: Traveling, spending time with family and friends, shooting ranges, doing hair and lashes, and shadowing at various dental offices.
Undergraduate school & degree(s): Stony Brook University, Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry Bachelor of Art in Creative Writing
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long-term goal is to do research in pediatric oncology as a Physician Assistant
Involvement: Certified Nursing Assistant; Bartender;
Hobbies: Running and hiking, reading, traveling.
Undergraduate school & degree(s): University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, Minor in Public Health.
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My long-term career objective is to integrate my expertise in microbiology with my passion for agriculture. I aim to pursue a position in food safety, specifically focusing on the study of food-borne microbial pathogens, with the goal of improving food safety and reducing the incidence of pathogen-related illnesses. I chose the Master’s in Biomedical Sciences program because it offers valuable research opportunities and a more intimate learning environment, which will facilitate direct interaction with experienced professionals in my field. This will provide me with the comprehensive knowledge and practical insights necessary to excel in my chosen career.
Involvement: University of Tennessee Equestrian Team, Microbiology Undergraduate Club at the University of Tennessee, Alpha Sigma Kappa Women in Technology Studies and stem, Future Society of Women in Medicine, employee at University of Tennessee’s Veterinary Research and Educational Center, employee at University of Tennessee’s Pharmacology department at the Veterinary School.
Hobbies: Competitively riding and showing horses in multiple disciplines across the United States, Reading and participating in book clubs, Working out and being involved in spin and barre classes, and taking care of my younger siblings.
Undergraduate: University of North Carolina at Charlotte: Bachelor of Science in Biology
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose the Master’s in Biomedical Science program as it is a pivotal stepping stone in helping me achieve my long-term goal of becoming an optometrist. Through the variety of offerings of this program, I will be able to develop my technical and communication skills, expand my knowledge across various disciplines in healthcare, and gain clinical experience. The tools this program provides and the knowledge I will gain over the coming months will in the long run help me become a successful healthcare professional.
Involvement: Partners for World Health – UNC Charlotte, Door of Hope Food Pantry
Hobbies: Cooking, Baking, Painting, listening to music (R&B, Pop, and Neo Soul), and watching car reviews!
Undergraduate: High Point University; Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, Minor in Psychology
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My ultimate goal is to attend medical school and become a physician. I wanted to use BMS to strengthen me as a student: to become a more rounded applicant, to prove that I could achieve academic excellence in high-level science courses, and to broaden my horizons as a scientist. I believe in always trying to push my limits whenever and in whatever way that I can and I knew from the minute I learned about this program, this would be the way to do it!
Involvement: Office of Undergraduate Admissions Ambassador, Undergraduate Research, HPU Natural Sciences Fellowship, Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church
Hobbies: I love traveling, enjoying time with friends, and finding new coffee shops!
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: Associate of Arts in Biology at Miami Dade College. Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies w/a minor in Biology at Florida International University.
Long-Term Goals & why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences because it will benefit me with my long-term goals of becoming a dentist and potentially going into research to study oral pathology. This degree will allow me to fully understand the human body and its functions, enabling me to diagnose and treat patients more effectively.
Involvement: National Society of Leadership and Success, Community Sounds Choir, Now Music team
Hobbies: Singing, painting, coloring, and listening to music.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: UNC Charlotte- B.S. in Biology
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose this program because I am torn between whether I want to go to pharmacy school and pursue the pharmacy route, or if I would rather pursue research. This program will give me the research experience that I never received in undergraduate school and will help me decide if that is a career, I could see myself doing. It will also help prepare me for the professionalism and rigorous courses that I would have to take if I do decide to go to pharmacy school.
Involvement: Pharmacy technician and vaccinator at Walgreens and Next Chapter Book Club
Hobbies: Reading, painting, and swimming.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: University of North Carolina at Greensboro, B.S. in Biology, Minor in Chemistry
Long-term goals: I chose this program to build upon my knowledge of foundational sciences and to gain clinical experience through the clinical track. I hope to eventually matriculate into a dental school program, and I believe this program can help me achieve that.
Involvement: Habitat for Humanity, Out of the Garden Project, Genetic Research Specialist, and Olive Garden.
Hobbies: Going fishing, swimming, playing video games, and spending time with family and friends.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: James Madison University. B.S. Health Sciences
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose the Master’s in Biomedical Sciences at High Point University to improve my academic preparedness and professional portfolio. This program stuck out to me over others due to its intimate academic advising and support for its students. My long-term goal is to matriculate to dental school and eventually open my own practice in an underserved community.
Involvement: laboratory research assistant, teaching assistant for anatomy, teaching assistant for microbiology, pre-dental society, and Alpha Sigma Alpha.
Hobbies: reading novels, working out, and shadowing at local dental clinics.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: High Point University; Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Minor in Psychology
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose the MS BMS program because I wanted the opportunity to gain more hours and sharpen my skills in both a research and classroom laboratory setting while being able to spend a fifth year at my alma mater. After completing the BMS program, I plan to obtain a Ph.D. in neuroscience, pursue post-doctoral training, and become a professor at the undergraduate level. Ultimately, I would like to return to HPU to teach at the Wanek School of Natural Sciences.
Involvement: Undergraduate Research (zebrafish lab), HPU Strickland Women’s L.I.F.T. Fellowship, University Ambassador, Supplemental Instructor (psychology & biochemistry), Breakout Group Leader for HPU Wednesday Weekly Chapel, Psi Chi, Beta Beta Beta, Alpha Lambda Delta, National Society of Leadership and Success, Research Rookies, Neuroscience Club
Hobbies: Reading, working out, listening to music, following professional golf.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: Winston-Salem State University
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: This program will expose me to a variety of areas/specialties that will allow me to use science to help others! By collaborating with different groups of people I will be able to add tools to my toolbox of expertise while also enhancing how I can meet the needs of a community. I look forward to working to be a leader in the healthcare field, by being hands-on with what works best for each patient and how to cater the proper treatment to provide the best results! The skills that I have, along with the skills I will be acquiring through the High Point University Biomedical Science Program will equip me with an abundant number of resources that I will be able to use to help improve my community both now and in the future!
Involvement: I enjoy lending a helping hand and being involved in my community whether that means ushering at church, tutoring students (both virtually and in person), and lending my expertise to both Guilford County and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. However, I make an effort to be a wonderful wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend!
Hobbies: I love reading, dancing, singing, boxing, listening to music, and most activities that involve working with my hands!
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: Associate of Science from Guilford Technical Community College in 2020, Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of NC Greensboro in 2022
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: My current long-term goal is to break into the field of neuroscience where I hope to research neurodegenerative disease. From the Biomedical Sciences program, I hope to gain a better understanding of research practices and to gain a more holistic understanding of the human body. I feel that the research experience I gain from this program will make me a more attractive Ph.D. candidate and will likely shape my research goals.
Involvement: I plan to join at least two clubs while I’m here, the biology club and the neuroscience club. I work part-time as well at Wesley Memorial UMC and LabCorp.
Hobbies: In my spare time, I like to read classic sci-fi novels. I also listen to a lot of music and collect vinyl records. I exercise as well, mostly jogging and swimming.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: B.S in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Biomedical Science from the University of Texas at El Paso
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose the Master’s in Biomedical Sciences Program at HPU because I wanted to continue to grow my knowledge in this field. I have always felt passionate about biology and this program will provide me with opportunities to continue to build my confidence in the classroom and laboratory as well as help me attain the research skills and education that I will need in my future endeavors.
Involvement: Member of the HPU Women’s Soccer Team
Hobbies: Playing soccer and being with friends.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: High Point University – B.S. in Exercise Science, Minor in Psychology
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose HPU’s Master’s in Biomedical Sciences to dive deeper into the biological and psychological systems of the human body and to acquire advantageous skills to become a valuable provider within the healthcare system. I will utilize information from the classroom, experience from the laboratory, and the EMS track of the program to prepare myself for Physician Assistant school.
Involvement: Undergraduate research, SEACSM presenter, Siegfried Leadership Fellow, D-Up volunteer.
Hobbies: Running, reading, hiking, listening to music, cooking, and watching movies.
Undergraduate Institution; Major/Minor: High Point University, Bachelor of Arts in Biology, Minor in American Sign Language
Long-Term Goals & Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program: I chose the Master of Biomedical Sciences to expose myself to upper-level work beyond my bachelor’s degree. This program will give me a good foundation of knowledge and skill sets before I attend Physician Assistant school which is one of my long-term goals. Additionally, I would like to also earn a Doctor of Biomedical Sciences to further my scope as a provider and possibly step into a teaching role down the line in my career.
Hobbies: EMT for Guilford County EMS, CNA on the Trauma floor of Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Pre-PA club, Phi Mu sorority, Volunteer at Two Cities Church in Winston Salem, Undergraduate Research in Ecology, Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician
Involvement Outside the Classroom: Weightlifting, Running, Painting, Guitar, Piano, Swimming, Rock Climbing, Kayaking, and Traveling.
Undergraduate Major/Minor: Exercise Science (Exercise Physiology Concentration)
Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program at High Point University: A Master’s in Biomedical Sciences degree allows me to obtain technical and communication skills, additional clinical hours, and academic growth, before matriculating into medical school. HPU also provides total access to cutting-edge facilities that promote a positive learning environment, as well as customized mentorship to help me navigate my path to my career goals.
Hobbies: Reading, Watching Tv & Movies, Violin, Listening to music, Makeup
Involvement Outside the Classroom: Hospice of the Piedmont Volunteer, Alpha Phi Omega, Certified Pharmacy Technician
Undergraduate Major/Minor: Biology with a Neuroscience minor
Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program at High Point University: I chose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program at High Point University because I wanted to be challenged while enhancing my Bioscience knowledge. I believe the fast pace and rigor of the program will build my confidence in the classroom and prepare me for either dental or medical school. Being a graduate student at High Point University will allow me to make connections within the community and expose me to classroom settings I am going to experience in the future. Lastly, I specifically chose High Point University because of the welcoming atmosphere I sensed after having a conversation with Dr. Ackerman.
Hobbies: During my free time, I enjoy exercising, cooking, and journaling.
Involvement Outside the Classroom: I am an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Undergraduate Major/Minor: Major – Neuroscience, Minor – Psychology
Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program at High Point University: I chose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program at HPU because I knew this program would provide opportunities that will allow me to determine my future career goals, prepare to accomplish my goals, and gain the necessary experience to be successful in my future endeavors.
Hobbies: My hobbies include cooking/baking, going to the beach, practicing yoga, and working out.
Involvement Outside the Classroom: Kappa Delta Sorority, HPU EMS, Neuroscience Club, Biology Club, Pre-Medicine Society
Undergraduate Major/Minor: B.S. in Neuroscience, minor in Psychology
Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program at High Point University: I have always been the type of person who wants to do every profession out there. I want to experience as much in one lifetime as a person can. Because of this, I have struggled to find my niche and the career that I want to have for the rest of my life. Biomedical Sciences will not only strengthen my skill set but will expose me to various career paths that could potentially be mine forever! Biomedical Sciences at High Point University will give me the skills and education necessary to accomplish any goals that I have in the future.
Hobbies: Outside of the classroom, I LOVE to read any and every book I can get my hands on. My dog and I also love backpacking and hiking on various trails throughout North Carolina. However, nothing can top my love for the sunny summer days at the beach.
Involvement Outside the Classroom: Habitat for Humanity will always have a special place in my heart as it is an organization that I have been involved in since my years in high school. I was also involved in the Neuroscience Club at HPU, as well as Alpha Lambda Delta (National Honors Society)
Undergraduate Major/Minor: Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
Why did you choose the MS in Biomedical Sciences Program at High Point University: When deciding on where to get my master’s from I chose High Point University due to the endless opportunities that were available to me. Dr. Ackerman was extremely thoughtful when designing the program and ensured that every class and experience we had would prepare us for our next steps. Getting my Master’s in Biomedical Sciences at High Point University will undoubtedly prepare me for medical school.
Hobbies: When I am not in class I love spending time with my dog Kona who I rescued during my sophomore year of college. Having grown up going to the beach and lake with my family every summer, I try to spend my free time getting near water even if it is just reading a book by Oak Hollow Lake.
Involvement Outside the Classroom: During my undergraduate career, I was involved in Greek Life, held positions with Dance Marathon at High Point University, and was a Resident Assistant for two of my four years