Joanna's Thoughts on Texas State

Why Texas State

I chose Texas State because of the variety of health professions degrees offered, the academic reputation, majestic Old Main and the San Marcos River.

Career Goals

I will work in a lab for a few years and potentially go into public health or clinical laboratory science education. I want to work on research that will effect policy changes that will lead to improvements in global health.

Favorite Professor

I have three fantastic professors: Dave Falleur, Rodney Rohde and Phillip Kostroun. Professor Falleur is an excellent role model. He donates time to free clinics, orchestrates blood drives and stem cell registry booths, and attends leukemia walks. He is also always willing to participate in our student organization’s activities and has shown great enthusiasm in helping us create it. Professor Rohde inspires me to achieve great things. His ability to juggle family, research, teaching and working toward his doctorate helps me stay focused. Professor Kostroun is always encouraging and understanding. When things went wrong in a blood banking lab practical and tears were ready to flow, Mr. K’s calm and stoic manner brought me through it. I have learned a great deal about education as well as life from these three men.

Best Studying Advice

Keep procrastination to a minimum. Write notes. Ask questions. Play an active role in class. Appreciate your education and work to get as much out of it as possible.

My Organizations

The Society of Clinical Laboratory Scientists, past president
Alpha Chi Honor Society
Golden Key Honor Society
Student Bowl Team at the Texas Association of Clinical Laboratory Scientists Student Bowl
The Non-Traditional Students Organization

Why I was Involved at Texas State

Being a member of the Society of Clinical Laboratory Scientists has given me more enthusiasm for my profession and my education. We taught fourth- and fifth-graders parasitology and microscopy. Their faces were priceless.

Hobbies

I have two daughters, Alexandria and Riley. They are my hobby.

Honors, Awards and Scholarships  

Outstanding Clinical Laboratory Science Student Award 2007
Lois Blaney Health Professions Scholarship
Presidential Upper Level Health Professions Scholarship
American Society of Clinical Pathologists Scholarship
Texas Association for Clinical Laboratory Science Scholarship
American Society for Clinical Pathology National Honor Student Award (2006 and 2007)
Research Forum Poster Award 2006
Who’s Who at Texas State
National dean’s list
Texas State Brightest Stars honoree
Second place in Student Bowl Competition at TACLS Annual Convention 2007

What I Tell Future Texas State Students

Texas State is an affordable, highly regarded, beautiful university where you can learn from accomplished and inspiring professors.