Hello! My name is Lauren and I am a Junior majoring in Economics and Microbiology. I really did not want to love MSU. I tried to transfer my first year and was intimidated by the size of the big ten school as an out-of-state student. However, this past year has been one of the best of my life. I was pushed to my limit leading my own research project, studying for advanced classes, and navigating my own professional journey. I enjoyed every day of it because MSU gave me the community and support I needed. The abundant social life, from football tailgates to Halloweekend, gives students the true college experience: making life-long friends and memories. I would love to talk more about my personal expereince navigating finding my people and schedule that worked for me. As a double-major, I can give you the insight of two different colleges and my expereince in their respective classes. I have learned to adapt to various teaching styles and class strucutres, having to design unique study strategies for every class. In addition, I know the best study spots and coffee shops ;) I would be honored to share my time to hear about your own experience while contributing my unique perspective as a Spartan. Go green!

Hometown

Palo Alto, California

Major(s)

Economics, Microbiology

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Ledading my own research project in the Contreras AdipoLab, Intiatied into the Mu Epsilon Delta Pre-Med Fraternity, Member of Orchesis Dance Company, Teacher in Ballet Club.

Describe your college experience

Being an out-of-state student in a big state school was intimidating when I arrived as a freshman knowing no one. Freshman year was difficult in the beginning finding my people; however, after pushing myself to get involved in research, clubs, and the reknowned social life, I have had a truly unforgettable expereince. East Lansing now feels like home and I want to do anything to give back to the place that gave me these amazing past two years

Tip for future students

No one likes freshman year, so give yourself patience and kindness by allowing a slow transition to a completely new reality.

Favorite class

A class called Ethics in Health Care exposed me to the disastrous effects of ineffiective policy and inspired me to pursue a career in the policymaking side of science.

Career goals

I aspire to go into environmental policy or pursue the pre-vet path and become an animal surgeon (or both).

Ideal way to spend a free night

Hanging out with my friends and destressing after a busy day with a comforting meal.

High school or secondary school

Henry M. Gunn High School

Favorite spot on campus

By far, the union. I have spent countless hours studying there and visiting the well-loved coffee shop, Strange Matter. The Union recently celebrated it's 100 year anniversary and I could feel the history of decades of Spartans walking through its halls.