Hi, I'm Rebecca! I'm an incoming fourth year pre-med at UChicago, studying Biochemistry with a minor in Visual Arts. I am a member of a human genetics lab on campus, volunteer with UChicago Medicine, and am on the board of a competitive synthetic biology club. In my free time, I enjoy lifting at the gym, trying new recipes with my friends, and have recently been lending my cellist skills to UChicago Theater productions.

Hometown

El Paso, TX

Major(s)

Biochemistry B.S., Chemistry B.A.

Minor(s)

Visual Arts

Clubs, organizations & involvement

University Theater Cellist Web Development and Design Board Member of Genehackers iGEM Team UChicago Medicine Comer Playroom Volunteer Research Assistant Residential Assistant for UChicago Summer Session Pre-Orientation Leader for Chicago Urban Explorers Program

Describe your college experience

Coming from a public school, I initially struggled quite a bit with adjusting to UChicago's rigorous curriculum and highly competitive student body. My limits were certainly pushed, especially during my first two years, but I've since discovered a healthy work-life balance and am now infinitely more confident in my capability to appreciate, approach and overcome challenges in my future. At the end of the day, I think this school was the right choice for me.

Tip for future students

GPA isn't everything (coming from someone with an objectively pretty good GPA of 3.85). In the quarter system, performance will not be uniform across the quarters due to the fast-paced nature and tendency to burn out towards the end of the year. I think as long as you show continued effort and genuine growth to your professors, and more importantly, yourself, it is possible to acclimate to the expectations of the school. Socially, you will also be ahead of your peers if you make efforts to talk to the people you find interesting in your classes. Social awkwardness is a very real thing at UChicago, but kindness and friendship is easy to find if you're willing to take the first step and put yourself out there.

Favorite class

My favorite class was "Drawing Through the World", a 3-week summer study abroad program in Florence, Italy. The program offered visits to the Florence anatomical museum, a private art studio to work out of, and a relaxing getaway to the former home of Dante Alighieri. As a Biochemistry major, I couldn't fit a quarter-long study abroad in my schedule, so I was grateful that UChicago offered shorter programs so I could still get an international experience. I met so many friends studying other disciplines who I had never encountered on our relatively small campus.

Career goals

After taking a gap year after graduating, I hope to matriculate into medical school! Not entirely sure what I want to specialize in, but I am currently leaning towards Pediatrics!

Ideal way to spend a free night

Go to the gym with a friend, cook dinner together, and then eat while catching up on the newest Netflix show.

High school or secondary school

Coronado High School in El Paso, TX USA