Hi! I'm Nicole, a student studying neuroscience at U of M. Living here all my life, I have a deep connection to the city and the campus and I'd love to share that with you. I have indirect knowledge of U of M through different lenses, because my mom worked as a researcher here and my brother just graduated with his master in Molecular Biology.

Hometown

Ann Arbor Michigan, United States

Major(s)

Neuroscience

Minor(s)

Computer science

Clubs, organizations & involvement

miRcore, cancer biology student society, mcdb research, atomic object, the squirrel club.

Describe your college experience

Transitioning to college was a bit intimidating. The classes are more challenging than anything I've faced before. However, I have found that when I overcame these challenges I felt more confident than ever. I had to learn how to reach out for support and take advantage of the available resources for help and after I did, I felt stronger. There's also a new freedom and independence you discover in college. Living on your own, making friends and trying new experiences are some of my favorite parts of college life.

Tip for future students

I highly recommend trying dorms for the first year, it helps you make strong friends and have a closer sense of community when you're still getting your footing. Also don't be afraid to reach out to your teachers and graduate student instructors for help, it makes a world of difference. Another thing, learning in college isn't really the same as highschool, you really need to dedicate time to studying, I promise it will pay off.

Favorite class

Surprisingly, biochemistry has been my favorite class. It was very challenging, but the instructors were fun and very supportive. It also helped that I find the content super interesting. After taking that class I feel like I have a deep understanding and can use this knowledge very well in the future.

Career goals

I plan to get my masters and then go to medical school.

Ideal way to spend a free night

I love to spend my free nights with my friends in downtown Ann Arbor; getting ice cream at the Michigan creamery, hanging out at the diag and playing board games, going to trivia night at some of the local bars.

High school or secondary school

Washtenaw technical middle college

Previous college

WCC (dual enrollment for high school diploma and associate degree)

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spot on campus is the Diag. The diag is a park between the campus buildings where students offten commute through to get to their classes. It's very beautiful and green. Also everything I need is in very close proximity. For example, if I wanted a drink there's a cafe less than a block away, if I need to study, the libraries are there. It's a bustling yet peaceful place to rest.