Sarah’s Thoughts on Texas State
Why Texas State
I came to San Marcos during high school for the state championship volleyball tournament. I received an academic scholarship to go here as an undergraduate. I stayed on for a master’s because I had an excellent research opportunity in the Biology Department.
Why Biology
I initially wanted to become involved in the medical field, but I began doing research and discovered my true passion in biology. I want to earn a PhD in cell biology and either become a professor and researcher, or work in the industry.
Favorite Professor
My favorite professor is still my general chemistry professor,
Dr. Debra Feakes. She is incredibly knowledgeable about her field, but what separates her from other professors is her ability to translate her knowledge to students who have no background in chemistry.
Best Opportunity
The best opportunity that came my way as an undergraduate at Texas State was when Dr. Joseph Koke invited me to join his research lab.
On-Campus Job
I am an instructional assistant for the senior biology courses Cytology and Microtechnique and Cell Physiology. I teach students laboratory techniques, and my favorite part of this job is interacting with students. I am also a lab manager for the new Biosensor and Nanomaterials Lab under Dr. Shannon Weigum.
Honors and Scholarships
Member of the Texas State Honors Program, Mitte Academic Scholarship recipient, and summa cum laude graduate.
Suprises at Texas State
Coming from a small town, I was a little afraid of coming to a much bigger school. I assumed I would be just another number. However, what I noticed right away was that you run into the same people over and over again throughout your academic career. Texas State feels more like a community than any other college I
have seen.
When I'm Not in Class
I enjoy the beautiful outdoors of San Marcos. The river and Prospect Park are two of my favorite places to visit year round.
What I'll Remember Most
As terrified as I was about moving into a dorm with a potluck roommate, the Texas State memories I will still appreciate most in 25 years are the late nights spent talking with my roommate, who is still my best friend five years later.
Best Advice I Recieved
My advisor in high school told me to wait to declare a major and take some core classes to see all of the possible fields I would potentially be interested in.
What I Tell Future College Students
Go to class! Even if you feel you understand the material, going to class will give you a new perspective. And professors notice who comes to class and who
does not.
Freshman 
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