This week we caught up with another great Clark senior, Vlad Kiveliyk. Find out more about Vlad and his advice for underclassmen below.
Name: Vladislav Kiveliyk
Hometown: Southington, CT
Major: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Minor (if you have one): I don’t have a minor, but I am on the Pre-Dental track.
Favorite Professor at Clark: There are many professors at Clark that I admire, however there is one who has had a large impact on me, Professor Spratt. He took me into his lab and has made it one of the most interesting places to learn. In addition, he’s just a great guy to have a chat with. In my case, he even helped steer me in the right direction in terms of what I wanted to do with my life.
Favorite Class at Clark: I really enjoy my honors thesis research in the Spratt Lab. Since that’s a registered “class”, I’d say that’s my favorite! It gives me the opportunity to learn hands on with the freedom to pursue whatever I deem necessary.
Favorite Spot to Study on Campus and Why: My favorite spot on campus to study is the Graduate Lounge in Sackler. It’s usually free when I need it and has lots of space to spread out my stuff. But when that fails, the Science Library in Sackler is a gem because it’s not full of people screaming and there’s almost always an available study table.
Favorite Bistro Snack: Sushi. There’s no doubt about it. Yes, it is a snack.
What has been your favorite thing about going to school at Clark?
The people you meet. Although sometimes I get into arguments with people about varying opinions, I generally learn something from the people here. My interactions with the various personalities at Clark have really let me grow as a person. However, there’s other perks to meeting people, I’ve made great friends, busted my butt with my swimmers, and met my awesome girlfriend here!
What will you miss most about Clark?
I will miss the freedom to roll out of bed 10 minutes before class and still make it to class on time.
What clubs and activities were you involved with on campus?
Throughout my time at Clark I have been involved in the Pre-health Society, the Student Activities Board, and the Swimming & Diving team. I also did some volunteer work my sophomore year at UMass Memorial.
What are your best words of wisdom for underclassmen?
The key to success is balance. Balance your work and your friends. Figure out where you can cut time and where you need extra time. Most importantly, remember that nothing comes without effort. Unfortunately, how much effort you need to put into a class isn’t systematic of formulaic. It’s something you’ll need to figure out for yourself at the start of each semester.
What are your plans post-graduation?
After I graduate, I’ll be getting my MBA here at Clark, which I will hopefully use to pen my own Dental practice some day.