Student Profile

Name:

Melissa McCoy



Class Year:

Junior



Area of Study:

Biochemistry



Hometown:

St. Francis, MN



Why did you choose St. Scholastica?

From the moment I set foot of campus I could envision myself as a student here. I didn't get that feeling at some other schools, and I'm not regretting my decision one bit.

Why did you choose your major?

I absolutely adore chemistry and enjoy the influence biochemistry lays in living systems.

Do you participate in any extracurricular activities; if so, why?

I tutor students through student support serices in chemistry, biology and math. I know how it feels to be in their position and like to help them see the light at the end of the tunnel. I've also participated in theater at St. Scholastica. It was a great release from doing all left-brain thinking every day in my science laden coursework and allowed my creativity to flow.

What are your post-graduation plans or goals?

It is my utmost hope to attend the University of Minnesota Duluth medical school for rural medicine. I want to use my compassion to heal people and give back to a world what has given so much to me.

What's your favorite class? And who is your favorite professor?

Don't make me choose! I find the human body endlessly fascinating. Just when you think you have encountered the most mind-blowing fact, something else emerges and perplexes you. Dr. Cizadlo (Doc. C) has really shed a lot of light on the inner-most workings of human anatomy, and I'm sad that the semester is almost over. Another amazing class I've been fortunate enough to take was a course called Great Ideas of Science, in which we studied and discussed topics from quantum physics, to botany, to genetic's implications on society. Geek and non-geek alike, united in this class we all found something to love. Dr. Stein challenged our existing ways of thinking with thought experiments and had enough patience to walk us through numerous scientific theories.

Advice for prospective students?

*Join the Honor's Program if you can! Honor's classes can replace many generals and really allow you think outside the box of normal classes. If you find a professor you love, take as many classes from him or her as possible. Life is about learning, not just about finishing what you need to get done. Don't be afraid to ask for help! Everyone I've ever encountered at St. Scholastica has been more than willing to answer any questions I've had.