Hometown: Tukwila, Washington
Undergraduate Degree: Biochemistry, pre-med track
Expected Graduation Date: December 2025
Tukwila, Washington, native Halie Harwood is preparing for a career in medicine as a biochemistry major in WSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
Halie is a member of our EschLEAD program, which is open to WSU undergraduate students from all backgrounds, experiences, and academic disciplines and designed to provide immersive, hands-on learning in real-world research environments in the college’s leading labs. She also works as a study abroad peer advisor, helping others pursue opportunities to learn beyond Pullman.
She recently took some time to discuss her experiences as an undergraduate student in the College of Veterinary Medicine.
What initially drew you to your major?
I couldn’t really see myself doing anything else. I knew I wanted to do something that would challenge me every day, and biochemistry felt like the perfect fit to push me intellectually while preparing me for a career in the medical field.
Who has been the most influential mentor or professor during your time at WSU?
Dr. Ryan Driskell has been an incredible mentor. As the PI of the lab where I work, he has guided my research in regenerative biology while also giving me opportunities to grow as a leader and lab manager. His mentorship has helped me develop the skills to think critically, manage projects, and guide other researchers.
Can you share what it’s been like working in the Driskell lab?
I work as the lab manager in the Driskell Lab, where we study skin regeneration and fibroblast heterogeneity. I’ve had the opportunity to conduct histology work for my honors thesis on axolotl skin, present our computational biology projects at research symposiums, and help other undergraduates start and complete their own research projects. This experience has strengthened my technical skills, leadership abilities, and confidence in navigating the research process.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in a field within the College of Veterinary Medicine?
Get involved in research early! It’s one of the best ways to apply what you learn in class and discover what truly excites you. Ask questions, seek out mentors, and don’t shy away from challenges outside your comfort zone.
What’s your favorite thing about WSU?
The sense of community. Students and faculty are genuinely supportive of one another, and that collaborative environment makes it a place where you can grow both personally and professionally.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to work for about a year while applying for a master’s program, which I hope will ultimately lead me to medical school. My time at WSU, especially my leadership and research experiences, has given me the skills, resilience, and adaptability I’ll need to succeed in both advanced academics and a future medical career.
What hobbies or extracurricular activities have you enjoyed at WSU?
I don’t have a lot of free time, as I’ve been working two jobs while being a full-time student, but studying abroad in Florence, Italy, was by far my favorite experience at WSU. When I do get downtime, I try to work out or spend time with friends.
What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
Even with everything I’ve done and am doing, I still don’t know exactly where my life is headed. While I’m excited to graduate, I’m also very scared of the unknown, but I think that uncertainty is part of the adventure.