Hannah Armstrong

Medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration |  Neuroscience minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Growth. Empowerment. Fun.

Why Hannah chose UD:

I visited UD and learned more about the curriculum in the College of Health Sciences. I would not be anywhere near who I am now if I had not made this decision.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

During my tour on Admitted Students Day, I was overwhelmed with both nerves and excitement. I saw waves of people moving with purpose and knew this school would unlock so many opportunities for me, both in and out of the classroom.

Why did you choose your major?:

I always knew I wanted to go into healthcare, but I wasn't sure exactly what path to take. I started at UD as an exercise science major, but in the spring of 2023, I switched to the medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration (MDD-PPA). If I had not gone to UD, I don’t know if I would ever have been open to becoming a physician assistant (PA).

Post-graduation plans:

I will be attending PA school at Thomas Jefferson University. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

 UD opened my eyes to becoming a PA. The curriculum in the MDD-PPA major greatly set me apart, both academically and personally. Once I finished the core science curriculum, I took classes in hematology, clinical chemistry, immunology and clinical microbiology, which all prepared me to succeed in PA school. The rigor of these classes and how I navigated them while dealing with the other struggles of being a college student taught me that I can not only do hard things, but succeed at them.

Favorite academic experience:

I had a lot of fun in the Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease Lab section with Heather Walters, instructor in medical and molecular sciences, where we performed hands-on lab tests and learned about bacterial pathogenesis and testing. 

My mentors: 

I am very thankful to both my academic advisor, Susan Coffing, and Virginia Hughes, the professor and director of the MDD-PPA program, for getting me to where I am right now. 

Favorite clinical rotation or internship: 

I worked at Pivot Physical Therapy over the past two years to gain clinical experience. While a full-time student,  I earned 1,500 patient contact hours and learned so much about being a provider through my interactions with patients there, which has set me apart and prepared me for PA school. 

Favorite research experience: 

I served as an undergraduate research assistant in Professor Tom Buckley's Concussion Research Lab in the Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology. As a student who has had a lot of concussions over the past five years, I was immediately intrigued by studying the dynamics of recovery of people with traumatic brain injuries. I helped administer pre- and post-concussion tests to student-athletes and analyze data. The experience solidified my desire to work with patients face-to-face. I am currently writing a research proposal for one of my neuroscience courses on the effects of yoga and mindfulness on concussion recovery. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

For the greater part of my undergraduate years, I was a part of Chi Omega, and I am forever grateful for the doors this sisterhood opened for me. The support of my sorority family throughout some of the hardest years of my life, both academically and personally, helped ground me and get me to where I am today.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

To be a Blue Hen is to be courageous and open-minded. This school has so much to offer, and if you allow yourself to step into new things and opportunities, you will be a completely new person after four years. I am thankful to UD for helping me grow into the successful, compassionate, young woman I am today.

John Arnold

Medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration 

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Transformative. Exhilarating. Unforgettable.

Why John chose UD:

After touring that UD, I knew it would soon be my home! The beautiful campus, combined with a major that set me up well for my future, and raving reviews from students I already knew in attendance, solidified my choice.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

I was a nervous wreck! I am extremely family-oriented, so knowing I would have to spend so much time on my own really made me nervous, but I was excited to start my own chapter. Quickly, I discovered a second family of sorts that makes leaving UD just as hard as leaving home four years ago.

Why did you choose your major?:

Helping others has always been a core value of mine. When deciding on a profession for my future, I knew I needed to focus on improving the well-being of others. Becoming a physician assistant soon became my goal, and from there, I was able to apply and be accepted into UD's MDD-PPA program.

Post-graduation plans:

I will spend the summer earning patient contact hours as I apply to PA schools. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

The MDD-PPA track coursework provided me with the exact tools I needed for PA school, making the application process and future coursework much less daunting. 

Favorite academic experience:

I am extremely enjoying my capstone course, Interdisciplinary Health Perspectives. We have had a wide range of healthcare professionals present on various job opportunities and specialties, which has been very enlightening.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship: 

I am currently interning in Christiana Hospital's Emergency Department as a patient care technician, which has been extremely informative and exciting!

Favorite non-academic experience

I had the privilege of serving as captain of UD's Division One Cheer Team and won two consecutive national titles!

I also served on the UDance Dance Marathon as the entertainment chair last year and as the entertainment director this year. The "day of" dance marathon has been my favorite day of the year all four years at UD, but being on the back end, creating a 12-hour production schedule tailored to my peers, was really magical as well.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means being part of a community that truly supports and uplifts one another, both academically and personally. It’s about embracing school spirit, taking pride in your experiences and making the most of every opportunity that comes your way. My time at UD has been incredibly meaningful, and I’ve grown in ways I never expected. 

Sarah Buckingham

Medical diagnostics major with pre-physician assistant concentration | Biology minor | First-generation college student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Transformative. Rewarding. Unparalleled.

Why Sarah chose UD:

I was immediately drawn to the sense of community. When I started learning more about their programs and support systems, I knew UD would be the place for me to learn and grow in my undergraduate journey.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time: 

Stepping foot on campus was different than any of my other college tours. I immediately felt connected as I learned about the different parts of campus that made it unique. I remember walking through the Green, seeing Morris Library, and learning the story about the kissing arches. Learning about UD's history and seeing the campus for the first time made it feel like home immediately.

Why did you choose your major?:

I chose the medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration (MDD-PPA) as my program of study because it would prepare me well for my post-graduate plans. The program is set up to challenge students and teach them hematology, immunology and virology - all of which will apply to my post-graduate studies.

Post-graduation plans:

I am currently applying to PA school. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD helped me by providing resources to grow and network. My professors, who have worked in the healthcare field for decades, were readily available. My advisor was also extremely helpful in determining what I needed to be successful in earning my undergraduate degree and in preparing for my post-graduate plans.

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite academic experience was becoming a teaching assistant for the microbiology lab course. Lab work had always been very intriguing to me, and I was more than happy to act as a resource for students. It taught me valuable leadership and organizational skills.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Becoming a member of the UD Emergency Care Unit (UDECU) during my first year. Through this organization, I grew as a person, a leader, and a care provider. I have learned extremely valuable skills that will continue to help me in my career long after graduation. While serving as administrative coordinator, I helped the UDECU earn awards, including the 2026 Organization of the Year at this past conference.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

To me, being a Blue Hen means being a part of a lifelong connection to UD and other students. UD has taught me many life lessons that I will carry with me for my entire life. I am grateful to experience such a connection, especially as a first-generation college student.

Eric Dombrower

Medical laboratory science BS/Medical and molecular sciences MS program

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:
Fun. Enlightening. Supportive.

Why Eric chose UD:

I loved UD and could easily see myself there. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

Great, but slightly nerve-wracking at first. As more time passed, I made UD into my home, just as much as where I grew up, if not even more so.

Why did you choose your major?:

Medical laboratory science (MLS) combined several of my strengths and interests. I've always loved science and have always been passionate about helping people. Medicine has always fascinated me, but I also didn't want to go through medical school. Over time, I began to prefer the technical, "behind the scenes" nature of the lab, far more than I'd imagine I'd ever enjoy a patient-centered role.

Post-graduation plans:

After graduation, I plan to work in an MLS lab in Delaware or a nearby state.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

Developing such a strong rapport with the MMSC faculty here, as well as passing my American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification exam. 

Favorite academic experience:

At UD, it was learning about the theory of laboratory medicine. During my rotations, my favorite part was putting that theory into practice and saving real human lives as a result. 

Favorite clinical rotation or internship: 

My special chemistry rotation with ChristianaCare. 

Favorite research experience:

I am currently working on a scientific paper on the effect of caffeine on human reaction time, and I hope to get it published!  

Favorite non-academic experience:

Hanging out with my friends in the MLS major. There were only about 15-20 of us, so we were a very tight-knit group.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

To me, being a Blue Hen means being immersed in the community. If you make yourself at home here, you're a Blue Hen, through and through, always and forever.

Sean Fletcher

Medical diagnostics major | Honors with Distinction | First-generation college student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Transformative. Rigorous. Rewarding.

Why Sean chose UD:

I chose UD because it allowed me to stay close to my hometown of Newark while offering incredible resources for a pre-medical student. I was drawn to the undergraduate research opportunities and the support of UD's Center for Health Profession Studies through programs, like the Health Professions Evaluation Committee (HPEC) and the Medical Scholars program.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

Frankly, it was intimidating. As a first-generation student from Christiana High School, transitioning into an honors curriculum was incredibly difficult. I lacked the advanced coursework background of my peers, requiring a period of intense adjustment. Balancing this rigorous academic pace while working 20-30 hours a week at Terumo Biomedical was exhausting. However, pushing through that initial struggle gave me the exact resilience I needed to succeed.

Why did you choose your major?:

I chose my major because of my deep interest in biomedical research and my lifelong aspiration to become a physician. I specifically transitioned into medical diagnostics because it is a highly medically relevant, clinically focused program that perfectly bridges the gap between theoretical science and direct clinical application, which I knew was essential for my path to medical school.

Post-graduation plans:

I will earn my medical degree from Sidney Kimmel Medical College (SKMC) at Thomas Jefferson University, as part of the Class of 2030. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

The rigorous coursework and extensive hands-on opportunities thoroughly prepared me for the MCAT and the demanding nature of medical school. With support from the Undergraduate Research Program, the Center for Health Profession Studies (CHPS), and funding such as the Angela Santoro Research Award, I was able to engage deeply in research that I believe can create a better tomorrow. These resources transformed my acade

mic experience and provided the exact foundation I needed to succeed.

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite academic experience was serving as a teaching assistant for organic chemistry. It is a notoriously difficult course, and I loved having the opportunity to help my peers demystify a common pre-med hurdle, foster their confidence and provide the extra support they needed to succeed.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

Shadowing Dr. Bohman, a neurosurgeon at ChristianaCare, opened my eyes to the intense, demanding world of medicine while also highlighting the importance of building the long-term patient relationships required for complex surgical planning.

Favorite research experience:

Research has been a cornerstone of my time at UD. Through my work in computational biology, I have presented nine posters at various symposiums and even delivered a graduate-level seminar on my computational drug design research. I recently published a first-author paper in Virology Journal and am submitting a second manuscript in the coming weeks. Currently, I am planning a third project utilizing these skills to screen for novel drug targets against HPV.

My mentors:

Professors of Medical and Molecular Sciences Sam Biswas and Esther Biswas-Fiss have been incredible mentors. Dr. Sam Biswas took me into his lab as an undergraduate during the summer of my first year, supported by the Angela Santoro Research Award. My computational research on HPV quickly took off, and thanks to the continued support of the Santoro family, my role progressed to become a dedicated computational researcher for the lab. Eventually, this led to me being added to Dr. Biswas-Fiss's NIH-funded ABCA4 project. Together, they have played a pivotal role in my progression as a scientist, a student and a future doctor.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Volunteering regularly at the Food Bank of Delaware and Lori's Hands has been incredibly rewarding and a great way to stay connected to the local community.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means embracing challenges with resilience and lifting up the people around you. It is about taking advantage of the incredible opportunities here to grow both as a scholar and as an active member of the local community.

Kylee Leverage

Medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration | First-generation college student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Vibrant. Engaging. Diverse.

Why Kylee chose UD:

I not only loved the campus but also the wide range of academic opportunities. UD is unique in that it offers a medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration (MDD-PPA) that includes rigorous courses closely aligned with PA school curricula. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

I felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty. The environment was very welcoming, with a beautiful campus that made it easy to picture myself becoming a part of. I felt like I had found a place where I could truly challenge myself and pursue my goals.

For as long as I can remember, I have been extremely interested in science and medicine. I graduated from a technical high school where I became a certified clinical medical assistant. During that time, I learned a lot about myself, including how much I enjoyed working with healthcare professionals and caring for patients directly. I knew that the MDD-PPA major would be the perfect challenge for me to grow academically and professionally as a future healthcare provider.

Post-graduation plans:

I will be attending the Physician Assistant program at the Medical University of South Carolina.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD has prepared me for this next step in my journey by providing me with unlimited resources from the Writing Center, the Career Center, and several professors. UD has given me the support to navigate career paths, improve my academic performance, build my resume, and secure jobs and a position in a graduate program. By utilizing these resources, I have created my own path to further my educational and professional goals.

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite academic experience was connecting with professors in the Chemistry Department and the Medical and Molecular Sciences Department, and taking advantage of the opportunities to tutor other undergraduate students.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

I worked as a patient care technician at Christiana Hospital. It's been such a great experience that has taught me so much about caring for patients at the bedside and working in a fast-paced environment. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Being part of the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority provided me with academic support, leadership and service experiences that have well prepared me for better academic performance and success after graduation. I have also met so many amazing people and made lifelong friends who I will never forget!

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means being rooted in UD's vibrant and inclusive community. It means supporting one another, valuing the experience offered by UD and having resilience to overcome challenges along the way.

Sophia Lopez

Medical laboratory science major | Forensic science minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Growth. Resilence. Belonging.

Why Sophia chose UD:

I chose UD because the STEM programs are outstanding. I also wanted a University that supported me for my disability, teacher assistants, Professors, advisors, etc. UD had everything and more to offer me to find a job on campus, make friends from extracurriculars and continue my education with multiple affiliates who support our growth and learning.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

My first time on campus was for Decision Day, when I toured the school. I immediately fell in love with the campus and its beauty, from the Green to the brick architecture. The tour guides were so welcoming and helpful, guiding my mom and me around campus and to events. The experience inspired me to become a tour guide!  

Why did you choose your major?:

I switched from biology to medical laboratory science after I found myself excelling in the lab and enjoying testing different theories and procedures. It was the best decision I have ever made! 

Post-graduation plans:

My first step is to pass my American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification exam by July. I am also applying for jobs.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD has supported my education in many different ways. From teacher's assistants and office hours to the accommodations from DSS, I have felt so comfortable at this school and have become even more confident in myself. I have learned so much in the past four years, and UD has prepared me for the MLS field through our rigorous curriculum and clinical rotations.

Favorite academic experience:

My 16 amazing classmates who turned into my closest friends! After hours spent in the lab and studying together, these classmates have become a support system and my biggest cheerleaders.

My mentor:  

Andrew Hollinger, instructor in medical and molecular sciences and director of the MLS program. He has supported me in numerous ways and always encouraged me to keep trying my best. If he believed in me, I knew that I could do it with hard work and diligence. 

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:  I enjoyed my last rotation in clinical microbiology at John Hopkins Medical Microbiology Laboratory. There, I saw amazing things and worked hands-on with some challenging patient samples. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Working as a Blue Hen Ambassador for Admissions. I am currently the communications coordinator and previously served as the recruitment coordinator. Being in these leadership roles has taught me so much about teamwork and enhanced my public speaking skills. I love showing students and their families that UD is the place for them.  

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

A Blue Hen is someone who embodies the pride of the University of Delaware and demonstrates it through hard work. leadership and community. It means being a part of a strong community built on unity, leadership, school spirit and support for one another. No matter where I end up in life, I will always be proud to be a Blue Hen.

Shelsie Martinez

Medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration | First-generation college student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Challenging. Resilience. Rewarding.

Why Shelsie chose UD:

I chose UD because it felt like the perfect balance. As a first-generation Latina, being close to home was really important to me since my culture is deeply rooted in family. At the same time, I knew I wanted to push myself and grow independently. UD allowed me to do both. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

Such a surreal experience. It really hit me that I had this amazing opportunity to grow and pursue dreams my parents never had the chance to experience. For many students, going to college is something their families have already been through, so they have that guidance. For me, it was different. Walking onto campus with my immigrant parents, who worked so hard to give me this opportunity, felt like such a big accomplishment. It wasn’t just a new chapter for me--but for them too.

Why did you choose your major?:

I’ve always been interested in becoming a physician assistant (PA), so choosing my major was really about finding what would best prepare me for that path. UD's medical diagnostics major with a pre-physician assistant concentration (MDD-PPA) just felt like the perfect fit for me and my goals. I liked that the courses were designed to really challenge you and prepare you for the rigors of PA school. It made me feel confident that I’d be well prepared for the next step in my journey.

Post-graduation plans:

I plan to take a gap year to gain more hands-on clinical experience before applying to PA school. I’ve accepted a position at TidalHealth, working as a medical assistant in both inpatient and outpatient settings. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD really helped prepare me for this next step by giving me both the academic foundation and real-world experiences I needed. Through my classes, I built a strong understanding of medical terminology, worked through ethical scenarios, and even earned a Basic Life Support certification, all of which are so important in healthcare.

Outside of the classroom, being involved in the Physician Assistant Club played a big role in my journey. All of these experiences helped me build my confidence and feel more prepared to step into my new position at TidalHealth.

Favorite academic experience:

A lot of my courses really pushed me and kept me on my toes. But looking back, I appreciate how those challenging classes helped me grow the most.

Being in the rigorous MDD-PPA major meant constantly being tested, but it taught me discipline, time management and how to handle pressure. Even though it was stressful at times, those experiences are what prepared me the most for working in healthcare and taking on new challenges after graduation.

My mentor: 

Julie Carney-Jones was my first-year advisor, and she was incredibly supportive throughout my time at UD. She was always helpful and responsive, and I’m really grateful for the guidance she gave me.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

Working as a medical assistant in pain management at the Center for Interventional Pain and Spine. There, I built strong relationships with PAs, who are helping me through the application process. The experience really confirmed my passion for becoming a PA.  

Favorite non-academic experience:

The friendships I built. Finding a Hispanic community on campus and connecting with people with similar backgrounds helped me stay connected to my roots while away from home. It gave me a sense of belonging and made my college experience so much more meaningful.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

To me, being a Blue Hen means growth, resilience and community. It represents pushing myself outside of my comfort zone and working toward goals that once felt out of reach. Overall, being a Blue Hen means being part of something bigger that continues even after graduation.

Abigail "Abby" McLaughlin

Medical diagnostics major | Genetic counseling minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Growth. Knowledge. Memorable

Why Abby chose UD:

I attended an Open House at UD and fell in love with the Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences for its in-depth, rigorous classes. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

Stepping foot on campus for the first time, I was full of mixed emotions. I was so excited to start college, but there were so many unknowns. I had never taken a class at a college or lived away from my family. Luckily, the excitement quickly returned when I made great friends and joined multiple organizations on campus, including the UD Emergency Care Unit (UDECU), which has given me a forever family.

Why did you choose your major?:

I liked that the medical diagnostics major provided me with both the necessary prerequisites for medical school and two years of additional classes that would expand my medical knowledge while being incredibly preparatory for continuing my education.

Post-graduation plans:

Chasing my dreams to become a physician! I am taking a gap year to apply to medical school. During that time, I will also continue working in emergency medical services and at a local hospital or doctor's office. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD has given me a strong academic background and preparation for the journey ahead. Being part of the UDECU has taught me leadership, adaptability, and quick thinking. Being a part of Lori's Hands has taught me the importance of slowing down and working with care. 

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite academic experience was studying abroad! I went to Athens, Greece, for three weeks with Virginia Hughes, professor of medical and molecular sciences. In Greece, we shadowed various specialties at a local hospital and went sightseeing around the city and country on our days off.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

I participated in a genetic counseling rotation for my minor, where I shadowed genetic counseling appointments and helped with pre- and post-appointment work, such as drawing pedigrees and inputting them into the computer. My favorite part was learning so much about the profession and its role on a healthcare team for patients.

My mentor: 

Not only did I study abroad with Dr. Hughes, but I also took three additional classes with her, and I can confidently say that her class structure and assistance during office hours helped me solidify my current study habits and strategies. Her knowledge will stick with me as I study for my graduate degree. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Playing an active role with the UDECU. Being an EMT in college has enabled me to serve as a primary care provider in emergencies. These experiences have left their mark and have made me a better provider and person. Overall, the best part has been the friends I have made along the way. UDECU is like a family, and that makes all the hard work worth it.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means being part of a community. As an in-state student, I grew up knowing how small and connected Delaware is. Since becoming a third-generation Blue Hen, I have learned that this community is strong and supportive. Being a Blue Hen means being supported by others and supporting others in pursuing their dreams and changing the world for the better.

Aubrey Menold

Medical diagnostics with a pre-physician assistant concentration  

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:
Humbling. Empowering. Self-discovering.

Why Aubrey chose UD:

I chose UD for the challenging academic environment, social networking and growth opportunities. Being from a small town in South Jersey, I was looking for a school that was large enough for me to network and meet people from all walks of life. Wanting to pursue a career in medicine, I knew UD offered a pre-physician assistant (PA) program that was different from many other schools in the area. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

Being on campus is a breath of fresh air. To this day, I admire the beauty of UD's campus and all it has to offer.

Why did you choose your major?:

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always known I wanted to pursue a career in medicine; my mother tells me that some of my first conversations were about patient scenarios on the TV show "ER."

Post-graduation plans:

After studying abroad, I realized I had a newfound love for anesthesia. I have begun researching and applying to accelerated nursing programs to pursue a career as a certified registered nurse anesthetist. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD helped me to realize my potential and challenged me academically to be the best student I could be. Having the opportunity to study abroad allowed me to find my true passion and adjust my studies to fit that career.

Favorite academic experience:

I studied abroad in Lisbon, Portugal, in Winter 2026, where I shadowed physicians and specialists in internal medicine, orthopedic surgery, and anesthesiology at a Portuguese hospital. It was such an educational journey to learn not only about medicine but also about the differences in practice and culture in another country. I genuinely could talk about my trip for an entire year if given the chance.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

My off-campus job as a medical assistant at a primary care office. I look forward to clinical rotations in graduate school.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Joining Gamma Phi Beta, a Panhellenic chapter at UD, where I've made so many friends, attended social gatherings and gained leadership skills by being surrounded by such a powerful group of women the past three years.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means being proud of any accomplishments at UD. As college students, we don't often give ourselves enough credit for all the life changes, personal growth and mental and physical hardships we endure on a day-to-day basis. I will always reflect on my time at Delaware in a positive light and will forever be proud to tell people I am an alum of such a great institution.

Kimberly Salamatin

Medical laboratory science major | First-generation college student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Lively. Educational. Unforgettable.

Why Kimberly chose UD:

I chose UD because of its beautiful campus, the excellent MLS program, and the extracurriculars.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

When I stepped on campus, I immediately knew I would be going to UD. I visited with my best friend and my sister, and we walked Main Street and went on the tour. I loved how beautiful the campus was and how everyone looked like they were having a great time.

Why did you choose your major?:

I've always wanted to help people, but I also love science. Working in the lab allows me to work behind the scenes and help diagnose illnesses.

Post-graduation plans:

I am still weighing job offers while giving myself ample time to study for the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification exam.  and to weigh my options afterward.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD's MLS major is one of the best out there. We go through rigorous labs and coursework. The professors present us with real samples and case studies and will do anything to ensure that students succeed and are well-prepared to work in the field.

Favorite academic experience:

During the fall of senior year, we have a semester-long Simulation Lab. The class is divided into four main practices: blood bank, microbiology, chemistry and hematology, and we simulate what a real day in a lab is like. 

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

I've enjoyed blood banking and helping people behind the scenes.

My mentors:

All the faculty in the Department of Medical and Molecular Sciences are more than willing to help students succeed.

Favorite non-academic experience:

I have been in the UD Marching Band for all four years and even held the leadership position of uniform manager!

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

To be a Blue Hen means taking advantage of the skilled personnel on campus to better yourself for your career and your community. It also means stepping outside your comfort zone and becoming the best version of yourself.

Dimple Swain

Honors medical diagnostics with a pre-physician assistant concentration | Global Health minor | World Scholars student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Challenging. Rewarding. Unforgettable.

Why Dimple chose UD: 

The numerous opportunities to travel and study abroad through the World Scholars Program.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

I was very excited and very nervous. I studied abroad during the first semester of my first year at UD, so coming back in the spring, I just felt very different from the experience many first-year students have. 

Why did you choose your major?:

I always knew I wanted to go into healthcare at a very young age. In high school, I explored the different fields you could go into, and a career as a physician assistant really attracted me.

Post-graduation plans:

I have been accepted into Widener University’s Master of Physician Assistant program and will be attending this upcoming fall.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

With the MDD-PPA major, I fulfilled all the PA school requirements within the first two years of college. Many of the classes were very interesting and helpful.

I also became involved with organizations that aligned with my interests, and those experiences definitely shaped me into this next step in my journey.

Favorite academic experience:

I will always remember bonding with my classmates during labs, whether it was general biology or chemistry, organic chemistry, or biochemistry. Surrounding myself with friends definitely helped me grow academically.

My mentor:

Andrew Hollinger, instructor in medical and molecular sciences, taught my Honors section courses, where I gained confidence in public speaking. Retired Health Behavior and Nutrition Sciences Professor Steve Goodwin and Gitu Barua were also faculty mentors on my study abroad trips. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

I enjoyed sharing my study abroad experiences with the Center for Global Programs and Services as a Delaware Diplomat, DelaWorld leader, and Study Abroad Ambassador. 

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

As a native Delawarean, being a Blue Hen means pride for my home state and University, which has given me unforgettable experiences that have shaped me for my future endeavors.