May 13, 2025

Originally from Tennessee, moving across the country was daunting, but it also was the start to a transformative journey filled with leadership, discovery, and lasting connections. From the beginning, biology felt like a natural fit. “Both of my parents studied microbiology, so I grew up viewing the world through a microscopic lens,” Emily shares. “Biol 1615, my first biology lab, helped me feel grounded in something familiar while adjusting to a brand-new place.” She quickly bonded with her lab partner and they have remained close friends with them throughout college. Eventually, she even returned to the course as a TA, helping guide new students through the same exciting material that first captured her attention.

While at the U, Emily has been involved in every corner of campus life. She joined intramural soccer, the Freeskiers Society, the Women’s Outdoor Leadership Initiative, and the American Chemistry Society. She also joined Kappa Kappa Gamma during her sophomore year. “I was hesitant at first, but going through recruitment was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I found a support system, leadership opportunities, and friends I’ll have for life.” She went on to serve as vice president of internal affairs and as a member of the academic excellence committee.

As a biology major, Emily gained hands-on research experience in Professor Cagan Sekercioglu’s lab, where she collected and analyzed reproductive and habitat data to support bird population assessments and conservation strategies. Her exposure to research and data analysis, combined with clinical experience at the University Orthopedic Center and volunteer work at the Geraldine E. King Women’s Resource Center, has prepared her well for the next step in her academic journey: physical therapy school.

Her biggest takeaway from college? “It’s okay to ask for help. No one knows everything, and reaching out can lead to both understanding and new friendships.” She remembers her Human Anatomy class (BIOL 2325), where a simple conversation with a classmate turned into a trusted study partnership, and eventually a lasting friendship.

To incoming students, her advice is simple: “My advice would be to go to everything that you can. You never know what will happen or the friends you will make.”

-Emily Mayer, Class of 2025 B.S Biology, emphasis in Anatomy and Physiology

 By:  Isabel DuBay, Biology Major and Lead Communications Intern, School of Biological Sciences

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