Reagan Simek, a genetics and cell biology student at WSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, is on track to graduate in the spring with ambitions to attend medical school. Originally from Saint Paul, Minnesota, Reagan’s fascination with genetics began in high school when she learned about the genetic basis of her family’s chronic migraines.
Arriving at WSU with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian, Ashleigh Carlton never imagined she would fall in love with biochemistry. However, her relentless curiosity about how the body functions and why cells behave the way they do inspired her to switch majors, and the Lynnwood, Washington, native is now set to graduate this December.
When he isn’t summiting the tallest peaks in the Pacific Northwest, Sam Kindl is working toward earning a degree in genetics and cell biology in the School of Molecular Biosciences, with minors in math and computer science. When the Spokane native wraps up his undergraduate studies in the College of Veterinary Medicine, he plans pursue a doctorate degree.
A rare heart defect resulted in Peyton Burpee spending much of his childhood in the hospital. It inspired him to pursue a career as a doctor through WSU’s pre‑admit program to medical school.
The undergraduate degree program is designed to train and prepare students to meet the evolving public health needs in Washington, particularly in the state’s underserved and rural regions.
Samira Diaz De Leon is one of 12 recipients nationwide of a National Institutes of Health scholarship given to those pursuing future careers in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research.
Forty WSU undergraduates engaged in mentored research have received fellowships to support their research, scholarship, and creative activity for the coming academic year.
From Snoqualmie, Washington, Mount Si High School alum Mariah Landon is set to graduate from WSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. While Mariah, an avid gamer, plans to take a year or two off to travel, she hopes to eventually have a career in science.
The WSU Alumni Association selects those students who represent the highest standards in specific aspects of the college experience: academics, athletics, campus involvement, community service, and visual and performing arts.