Name: Silvia Plascencia
Major: Biology
Year: 2015
Hometown: Gilbert, Arizona
Favorite book: Better by Atul Gawande
What are you passionate about?
Education and medicine in rural and underserved areas
What is on your bucket list?
Going to France, seeing the Statue of Liberty, and buying my parents’ a full vacation somewhere.
Why did you choose to be a biology major?
I had always like the natural science and I had an AP biology teacher who influenced me to study biology. I have had some amazing teachers at UP, like Dr. Hoffman, that have helped me to continue to pursue my interests in biology.
What do you do as a teacher assistant in chemistry and biology?
I helped students in lab and encouraged them to try new techniques as well as assist professors with whatever they may need done.
What is your favorite part of being on Mehling Hall’s staff?
My favorite part of being on Mehling Hall’s staff is watching the students grow from freshman year to sophomore year since the social growth of students change from year to year. I also enjoy planning hall events; these events require a lot of patience, organization, and scheduling. Being a part of Mehling Hall staff has given me an opportunity to practice my communication skills with students who need someone to confide in.
What are your plans for after college?
I plan on attending Loyola Stritch School of Medicine near Chicago, Illinois hoping to specialize in primary care and pediatrics, but I am open to other fields as well. I am also interested in potentially pursuing a masters in public health.
What is your favorite thing about UP?
My favorite things about UP are the close knit community of students, how accessible the professors are, and how willing professors are to help you in and out of office hours.
What advice would you give to a freshman?
Don’t be afraid to break out of who you were before UP. You have an opportunity to grow! Don’t be afraid to change. Meet new friends, attend cultural events, talk to professors, take advantage of small classes, and take academics seriously. You are very lucky to be here, so don’t take it for granted.