Name:  Emma Troyer

Hometown:  Kalona, IA

Major and Graduation Date: Biology: May, 2020

Favorite ISU Class:  Molecular and Cellular Biology of Human Diseases (BIOL 328).  This class really showed me how much I enjoy learning about diseases of the human body that would be actually taught to me again in medical school!  I believe this was the first class that I took that was specific toward humans which was awesome.  It was a very exciting and well taught class.

Job Title and company: Second-year Medical Student at A.T. Still University, Kirksville College of Medicine

Major Job/position responsibilities: STUDY! Medical school is tough, but I have enjoyed being able to learn how fascinating and detailed the human body is.  I take around 9 classes each semester and get tested on them monthly.  Outside of studying, I am involved in clubs on campus, research, volunteering and work at the local gym.

What you like most about your job/position?  I like that I am learning new information daily that will be used in my future and can be put to use in everyday life. It is amazing to know that someday I will be able to use all of this knowledge to help people heal and feel better. I go to an Osteopathic medical school and learning how to treat the body as a whole has been a great privilege. I have made amazing friends at medical school and really like how encouraging the environment is to learn. It is tough right now, but there is light at the end of the tunnel, and I can see it!  

What advice would you give to current students pursuing a career in Agriculture and Life Sciences?  Never stop learning and learn how to ask for help!  CALS has so many opportunities like research, studying abroad, being a teaching assistant to name a few that will further enhance your knowledge in areas that you are interested in.  CALS houses a wide variety of majors and being able to tailor my learning was the best part about being in CALS.  Life after college is a scary thought, but if you ask for help, it is less daunting!  I had help through the whole process of applying to medical school by way of mock interviews, a great advising team, and resume help.  Another final piece of advice I would give is to enjoy the people you meet in CALS.  The college is full of great people - what more could you ask for?