Accelerated Master’s with Kirk

Transcript

Let’s welcome Kirk, a graduate student studying Behavioral Neuroscience. Originally from Guyana, Kirk found a new home here at QC during his undergraduate studies. Kirk dreams of being a doctor, and with QC’s Accelerated Master’s Program, he’s on the fast track to doing so. Take it away, Kirk.

– Thanks for the introduction, Desi. Hey, everyone. Moving to New York from Guyana was a big change. I wasn’t sure where to start when choosing a college, but Queens College turned out to be the perfect decision for me. Since childhood, I’ve always wanted to be a doctor and have been fascinated by the brain. That passion led me to study neuroscience. The program here is especially valuable for pre-med students, offering opportunities to conduct research and defend an honor thesis. I completed in competitive research fellowship that allowed me to work alongside leading scientists and publish my research, contributing to the field while gaining valuable experience from medical school. The faculty here aren’t just professors. They are mentors who generally care about your student success. Through their guidance, I won the Barry M. Goldwater scholarship, a prestigious national award, recognizing excellence in STEM research. And the Paul Clapper award, Queens College’s highest honor for academic excellence, leadership, and community impact. Last year, I earned my bachelor of arts in neuroscience, biology, and psychology, and served as commencement speaker. My love for neuroscience led me to pursue an accelerated master’s degree. This allows students to build on their undergraduate research and complete their master’s in one additional year. There are also teaching assistant opportunities available. QC has an incredible student life in a prime location. I run the neuroscience club. I was the president of Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students. The college offers an on-campus housing and there’s affordable housing nearby. I live just one block away. Must be just a bus ride from major subway line to go straight into the city. Queens College has given me the knowledge, experience, and confidence to pursue the career of my dreams. No matter your passion, QC provides the tools to help you achieve it. Back to you, Desi.

– Thanks, Kirk. QC’s accelerated degree programs allow qualified students to take coursework for a master’s degree or a graduate certificate as an undergraduate student. Admitted students begin taking graduate coursework at undergraduate tuition rates in their senior year, giving students like Kirk a chance to get ahead. Good luck in medical school, Kirk.