Name: Claire Brown ’26
Hometown: Anamosa, Iowa
Majors: Biology (pre-med) and Spanish
Involvement on campus: TriBeta and Phi Eta Sigma honor societies; EARTH Club; biology, genetics, and chemistry lab assistant; Spanish tutor
Involvement in the community: Volunteered in the Waverly Health Center emergency room, patient ambassador in med/surg at WHC, note-taker in local doctor’s office
Study away experiences: May terms in Costa Rica and Bahamas, semester abroad in Granada, Spain
Research experiences: The effects of green space on Waverly’s bird population with Dr. David McCullough
Why did you choose Wartburg?
I originally chose Wartburg for the small and cozy atmosphere. You can feel that the professors and staff here are always pushing you to succeed and are there to help you in any step of the way. I also knew that I would be going to medical school in the future, and Wartburg has a great science program.
What sparked your interest in your field of study?
In high school, I realized that I was good at science and wanted to help people in this aspect. My childhood was spent doing activities to connect with my community and volunteering for those who need assistance. I thought that by being a doctor, I could do my part in making healthcare accessible to those who really need it.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to take a year off to study for the MCAT and apply to medical schools.
Can you describe a specific moment (in a classroom, a club, or just somewhere on campus) when you knew you made the right decision in choosing Wartburg?
I knew that I made that right decision when choosing Wartburg when I realized that every teacher knew my name and formed a relationship with me. I really respect and value Wartburg for fostering this type of environment because I would struggle in a larger school that is not able to do this as much.
Is there a faculty or staff member who made a significant impact on your journey? What is the best piece of advice they gave you?
I really look up to Dr. (Sean) Coleman. He was always there to give me advice and guide me throughout the way. He is one of those people who is looking out for you as person, not just a student. As my advisor, boss, and teacher, I feel like I can reach out to him anytime even after I graduate.
Which co-curricular activity defined your college experience?
The jobs that I had while on campus defined my college experience. It felt so rewarding to work for my college and earn my own money while attending college. These jobs helped me feel a sense of purpose and belonging on campus. I was able to help students meet their academic goals and prepare science labs so that students could learn.
What is the one thing you never imagined you would/could do before coming to Wartburg?
Before coming to Wartburg, I did not think that I would get the chance to do research. I thought that only very large schools had these opportunities and that getting into a research group was very difficult. However, the biology degree at Wartburg requires a year of research with a group. I cannot be more thankful for this, because I grew so much through this opportunity. The ability to perform research as an undergrad is such a great skill to have and looks very good to medical and other grad schools.
What advice do you have for prospective or first-year students?
My advice for incoming students is to work hard and start building your social network right away. Know that everyone has their own journey and interests, but you are all coming to college with similar goals. Make an effort to find friends, activities, and extra-curriculars that you love because these are just as influential to your college journey as your teachers and classes.
I also believe that all Wartburg students should have the opportunity of studying abroad. I understand that sports, music, and other obligations make this difficult, but I advise you to try to make this possible. Studying abroad will help you enjoy some of the greatest sites to see of the world, experience many different cultures, and possibly learn a bit of new language.
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