Hello! I'm Derek, a pre-med Biochemistry major who is sub matriculating for a Masters in Biotechnology (and possible a Music minor, if I can find the space in my schedule!). I'm not someone who was initially super excited to come to Penn – if anything I was a little apprehensive. But, over time, I've come to discover so many amazing things about both Penn and Philly that have made me really love it here, and I'm excited to be able to share some of these with you! Whether you want to know more about our pre-professional opportunities, our crazy number of cool clubs, or even about which cafes​/​restaurants in Philly are worth it, I got you. I'm especially passionate about the performing arts scene in Philly, and will absolutely encourage (force) you to explore a performance by Opera Philadelphia or a free Curtis student recital.

Hometown

Long Island, New York

Major(s)

Biochemistry, Biotechnology

Minor(s)

Music

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Penn Symphony Orchestra Penn Chamber Wharton Alliance Penn MINHUET Weingarten Center Tutor Netter Center Sexual Education Volunteer Volunteering at Penn Presbyterian Student Worker at Smith Lab in Penn Medicine

Describe your college experience

Initially I had a pretty hard time transitioning – I felt really overwhelmed with the size of the school, the number of different clubs​/​organizations, and how to study for classes. Gradually, however, I've found my footing, and each semester has truly been better than the last. I've had so much fun exploring different parts of Philly with my friends, trying new restaurants, visiting new exhibits, going to night markets, and more.

Tip for future students

Don't feel restricted to just your campus – make sure you explore the city​/​town that you're in. Like it or not you're going to be there for the next 4 years, and it's really enriching to learn more about​/​experience the distinct culture, food, music, etc. of where you'll be living.

Favorite class

MUSC 1300 - 1,000 Years of Musical Listening I'm a huge music nerd so the content of this class was already pretty interesting to me, but I especially loved that the class encouraged us to explore the rich Philadelphia art and music scene. As part of the class, we had to attend 2 music concerts in Philadelphia and visit 1 art gallery. I chose to attend a Philadelphia Orchestra concert, a live jazz band concert at World Cafe Live, and visit the Barnes Foundation. The experience was so fun, and I really liked getting to explore the diverse art and music offerings.

Career goals

I hope to go to medical school, and become an orthopedic hand surgeon that specializes in treating musician injuries.

Ideal way to spend a free night

I love to host dinner parties, usually for medium sized groups of around 7-8 people. Sometimes I do all the cooking and have a menu printed out with all the different courses, other times I host them potluck style and have everyone bring a dish. Either way it's so fun to laugh and chat with all your friends over food, and we'll usually do karaoke or watch a movie afterwards.

High school or secondary school

The Wheatley School

Favorite spot on campus

The Singh Center for Nanotechnology is my personal favorite spot on campus, especially for studying. It's technically a research building, but there's lots of study spots, conference rooms, and even an outdoor patio. The building itself is gorgeous and has tons of natural light (plus it doesn't close! ever!), and I can genuinely spend the whole day in there doing work.