As a biochemistry major, Melissa Yu built a strong foundation for her future goal of becoming a pharmacist. The Mercer Island, Washington, native, who was expected to graduate in fall 2026, took advantage of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom through the Pre-Pharmacy Club, the Cougar Marching Band and her work as a student and teaching assistant in anatomy.
She recently reflected on how WSU prepared her for pharmacy school, the experiences that shaped her undergraduate journey and why being a Coug meant so much to her.
What initially drew you to your major?
I chose my major because I wanted to pursue pharmacy, and it fulfilled most of my prerequisites.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in a field within the College of Veterinary Medicine?
The classes can be difficult, and some of the classes for the majors within the College of Veterinary Medicine are similar, so changing your major within the College isn’t too difficult. Going to class only becomes more important the deeper in your major you are.
What’s your favorite thing about WSU?
My favorite thing about WSU is how nice the people I’ve met are. I also like sunsets, the snow and how safe it is here.
What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduation, I plan on applying for pharmacy school. I think WSU has set me up for doing well in pharmacy school. Going to WSU has allowed me to participate in the pre-pharmacy club, which let me meet WSU pharmacy school admissions advisors, current pharmacy students and tour the WSU Spokane campus, giving me a good grasp of what pharmacy school is like.
What hobbies or extracurricular activities have you enjoyed at WSU?
My favorite extracurricular would be the Cougar Marching Band. I’ve been doing marching band since high school and was happy to learn that WSU also had a marching band. I got to know a lot of people because of marching band, both in my major and out. It helped me make friends quicker and find people who were taking the same classes as me. It also gave me a fast track to learning all the traditions the school has and also what it is like to be a Coug. I’ve also enjoyed being a student assistant and teaching assistant for the Bio 315 anatomy lab as it helped me meet people who were within the same field as me.
What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
I’ve been playing the clarinet since fifth grade.