Major: Biology
Areas of Emphasis: Neuroscience, Genomics, and Advanced Cellular &
Molecular Biology
Hometown: Cairo, WV
How did you choose your major?
Growing up, I was always fascinated by the small details of life, such as the color of the sky, the changing seasons, and the wide variety of animals found on our wonderful planet Earth. Very early on in life, I pondered the mechanisms behind such details and realized that science could answer most, if not all, of my questions. This realization sparked a lifelong passion for science, specifically biology, and it pushed me towards pursuing this major in college in order to develop an even deeper understanding and love of life.
How would you explain your major to a new WVU student? What advice would you give them?
If given the opportunity to explain my major to a new WVU student, I would describe it as a path towards understanding the minute details of life. Starting off with the introductory courses, the biology major immediately provides students with the basic knowledge of the processes that dictate all living creatures. By the end of the degree, biology students are experts on the amazing, intricate, and infinitely complex concepts that we simply recognize as life. To all new biology students, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and don’t be afraid to ask for help! Reach out to your professors and form relationships with them! Find topics that you are passionate about and pursue them relentlessly.
How has your major prepared you for your future career?
My major in biology has armed me with the necessary knowledge of human anatomy and physiology to be a successful physician. For example, what some may see as just an organ, I see as a million intricate interactions. Such a perspective is not only important but also necessary in the medical field in order to understand all of the possibilities of which can go wrong inside the body and disrupt a patient’s health.
How have you changed since your first year at WVU?
Coming from a very small town, I entered my college experience frightened but nevertheless committed to the pursuit of education and my passion for biology. After only a few weeks in Morgantown, this fear turned into comfort as my peers and professors made the town feel so much like home. As I progressed throughout my degree, I evolved from a student with little experience but a profound interest in science to a capable undergraduate actively participating in such science in the form of research. Looking back at the start of my time here at WVU, I know that my freshman self would be beyond proud of the progress I have made and how much I have changed. I hope to continue making such leaps throughout the rest of my life.
What was the hardest (Eberly College) class that you loved? Why?
The hardest class that I have ever taken while enrolled in the Eberly College is Biology 310: Advanced Cellular/Molecular Biology. This class truly challenges the way in which you think, and it pushes you beyond your comfort zone and beyond just routine memorization. This was the first time in my entire education that I couldn’t just simply rely on memorization to learn material, but surprisingly, I loved that. This necessitated such a deep understanding of the material that I felt truly connected to not only the class but also to biology and the processes going on within my own body. I loved this course so much that I served as a teaching assistant for it this past semester, and I hope to continue to do so next fall. It is such a fun, rewarding, and memorable experience to spark this love for biology and the course material in my fellow students.
What does it mean to be a Mountaineer?
To be a Mountaineer means to pursue your passions relentlessly. WVU has opportunities extending to any and every outlet, interest, or hobby, and thus it's impossible to spend four years here without becoming involved in something you truly care about. WVU develops and brings out the best in every individual, and so by graduation, every Mountaineer is an expert in their own little realm of the world. This university allows students to not only become deeply ingrained within their interests but to also push existing boundaries and lead the way for new developments in such fields. Thus, when we say, “Mountaineers Go First,” we truly mean it.
Do you have a favorite professor or instructor? What makes them special?
Dr. Bidwai, the professor who teaches Biology 310, is the best instructor I have ever had, and not only is he an amazing professor, but he is also just an amazing individual. He has a true passion for the material that he teaches, and he cares deeply about every single student. He is incredibly accommodating, kind, and understanding towards his students, and he does everything he can to support each and every student’s success.
What was your reaction when you found out you were an Eberly Scholar? How has this opportunity made a difference in your life?
When I found out that I was an Eberly Scholar, I was both shocked and honored. I am so grateful to be able to represent the Eberly College in this way, and it is such an amazing feeling to be recognized for my accomplishments. Thanks to this scholarship, I will be able to spend more time dedicated to my studies and to my activities within the Eberly College. In the same way that the Eberly College has given to me, I hope to give back to it with my remaining time here at WVU.
About Eberly Scholars
In association with the ongoing generosity of the Eberly family, the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences Advisory Board established the Eberly Scholars program in 1988. Each year, up to 25 students majoring in the arts and sciences are designated as Eberly Scholars. They are provided with scholarship support in recognition of their outstanding academic achievement. This award is the Eberly College’s most prestigious scholarship honor for undergraduate students.Meet all of this year's Eberly Scholars.
