Educating Others with Ian

Transcript

It’s time to hear from Ian, a junior biochemistry major with a minor in microscopy. Ian, experiences ESF from both sides of the classroom working as a teaching and research assistant. These positions have helped him become a better student and communicator, two skills that will serve him well as he continues his education to pursue a PhD. Tell us all about your experiences. Ian, take it away.

– Thank you, Alex. It’s nice to meet you all. While my interests have ranged from entomology as a child, to chemistry and virology in high school and cell biology and genetics today, I have always been fascinated by the life sciences. When I started at ESF, I loved that I could get the best of both worlds as a student here. There are small class sizes and I have access to highly focused, environmentally centered majors, but I’m still able to drop into a fairly large school atmosphere at Syracuse University, right next door, I’ve had the opportunity to develop leadership skills and test my physical and mental limits. By participating in activities and leading trips within the Syracuse University Outing Club. I’ve also been able to challenge and enrich myself with on and off stage work in a theater setting. Through the First Year Players. During my time at ESF, I became more interested in the idea of pursuing a PhD. This led to me joining the general chemistry lecture and lab as an undergraduate teaching assistant, as well as the SUNY Upstate Medical University Pharmacology Department as a research assistant within a research lab, My TA position in particular allowed me to experience the process of working through a college education from student and educator perspectives. I’ve also improved my ability to communicate difficult concepts by working directly with students. As a research assistant, I’m conducting experiments independently allowing me to experience both the struggles and successes of research. This solidified my desire to pursue a PhD in a biomedical field. My time at ESF has been a very personally and professionally rewarding experience, and I’m sure that my final year in the biochemistry program will be just as rewarding. With my time here, I know that I’m headed toward grad school well prepared for whatever may come. Back to you, Alex.

– Ian, you have definitely taken advantage of both worlds at ESF and it’s neighboring university. Your extracurriculars provided an extra dimension to your science-based education that most people might not consider. Best of luck, Ian. Thanks again.