Hello! I'm Tracee, a sophomore at Penn studying Neuroscience on the pre-med track, with hopes of becoming a pediatric anesthesiologist. Basically, I spend a lot of time thinking about how the brain and body work—and then find excuses to turn what I learn into something creative. Outside of classes, you'll probably find me drawing, making art for kids, or working with Philly youth through Penn's community programs. I love that Penn gives me room to be both a scientist and an artist, and that my favorite parts of college have nothing to do with a textbook. As your tour guide, I'm excited to show you the Penn beyond the brochures: the places where students actually spend their time, the traditions that make us Quakers, and the little corners of campus that made this place feel like home to me.

Hometown

Los Angeles, California

Major(s)

Neuroscience, Nutrition Science

Minor(s)

French

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Peer Leadership Fellow (FCP) Aug 2025 - Present Francophone Community Partnership | Philadelphia, PA Collaborated with program leaders to design and coordinate culturally relevant activities for students at Henry C. Lea Elementary School, aligning session goals with broader program objectives and adapting plans based on prior engagement Led direct engagement with students during sessions by facilitating activities, initiating one-on-one conversations, and building relationships to understand their backgrounds better and encourage active participation Fostered a more inclusive and affirming environment by encouraging students to explore and express their cultural identities, helping increase their comfort and openness over time BioArt Lab Volunteer Penn BioArt Lab | Philadelphia, PA Jan 2026 - Present Assisted with preparing bioart materials and activity stations for structured children’s workshops at Lea Supported post-activity cleanup and organization of lab and art spaces Answered students’ questions and reinforced the educational concepts introduced by board members during activities Helped manage operations during the Art Symposium Conference by hanging artwork, arranging display tables, and welcoming guests to create a comfortable environment for attendees

Describe your college experience

Being from LA, the biggest shock to me was the weather. Once it's cold in Philadelphia, it stays that way until near the end of the academic year. With the weather at play, staying outside wasn't really of interest to me. I swore that it wouldn't affect me, but as we know, people love saying things until they live the reality of it. But besides the weather, my fall semester was truly difficult. A new environment, rigorous courses, and a shaky study schedule. I was the type of person who wouldn't ask for help even if I was drowning, but with the amount of resources Penn has to offer its students, it was foolish not to take advantage of them back then. Freshman spring, I learned to take charge and seek help when needed. I also developed a personalized studying schedule, so every time an exam came through, I was more than ready.

Tip for future students

(1) Curate your course plan for your entire 4 years, so if something happens, you can plan accordingly. (2) It takes time to find YOUR people, but if you want those friends, you must get involved on campus. (3) This is college. It's okay to feel down about yourself and your capabilities; everyone feels that way. The important thing is to seek help when you feel that way. There are people on campus here to help.

Favorite class

All of the French classes I've taken thus far and Intro to Bio. I've taken FREN 0400 (the last French class that meets the language requirement), FREN 2180 (French Medicine), and FREN 2150 (Francophone Community Partnership Organization). Each French class brought a new perspective to learning a language and gave me occupational skills for the career I am pursuing. On the other hand, my Intro to Bio course professor was outstanding. She truly shared her passion for teaching with students, and every day in class, she'd emphasize just how much she cares about our learning. After having a negative experience my freshman fall, taking this course made me confident in my ability to learn.

Career goals

I hope to become a pediatric anesthesiologist.

Ideal way to spend a free night

Watching shows, drawing, and​/​or playing video games.

High school or secondary school

Taft Charter High School

Favorite spot on campus

My dorm, of course! No, but seriously, I'd have to say the Penn Museum. There's an area where students can do their work and enjoy the great outdoors, so when the weather is optimal, that's my go-to spot. I enjoy some greenery while fighting to finish my assignments. It minimizes the stress.