jmcomicÂþ»­

While I was at Stanford University, I struggled and I thrived. It is odd to see both of those adjectives together, but here is the reason why I believe I experienced both of those realities. As a high school student, school was easy for me. I excelled in my classes, so when I was academically challenged, I did not know how to cope. I failed to request for help, and I was actually put on academic probation my second year of college. That is when I realized I needed to take ownership of my education.... Read More I sought mentors and individuals who understood my backgrounds and experiences. They set me on a path towards success. That is when I began to thrive. I took classes that captured my intellectual curiosity. I was able to switch majors my junior year without neglecting all the hard work from my first two years. I found people who shared similar identities as I, and collectively we had a voice on campus. While there are ways that I feel Stanford as an institution does not cater towards people of color/minority groups, there are people on campus with whom I was able to unite. I do not regret my decision to attend this university.

When I first arrived at Stanford, I was not sure where I stood compared to other students. I was not sure whether I was prepared enough. I immediately came across what I think are Stanfords two main strengths: there was a support system for me to succeed, and the diversity of preparedness and backgrounds in students was endless. The classes were challenging but through office hours, review sessions, and extra tutoring, all provided and encouraged by the university, I realized I could do well and... Read More enjoy my experience. While I believe the design of some of their introductory science classes needs improvement, they definitely build on each other and as soon as I started doing more research in my field (biology in general and marine biology in particular), I realized how well-prepared I was and how broad of a background I had acquired almost without realizing it. My favorite part about Stanford was the people I met, both students and faculty, precisely because they came from a wide variety of backgrounds and mindsets. I met people who inspired me, by the things they had done and continued to do, and by the way they connected with others. The students and professors passion, curiosity, and positivity were contagious, the resources and opportunities felt endless, and I feel very lucky and honored to have graduated with the knowledge and memories that I did. My learning and research experiences at Stanford and in the field of marine biology were immersive and unforgettable ones.