From scaling cliffs to studying microbes, Kennewick, Washington, native Nathan Crumby has made the most of his time at WSU — both in and out of the classroom. As a microbiology major with plans to attend medical school, he’s passionate about science, medicine, and lifelong learning. But he’s also found a second home in WSU’s Climbing Club, where he’s gone from participant to president, building friendships and leadership skills along the way.
What initially drew you to your major?
Coming into WSU, I was actually a computer science major. I quickly realized I would not like to sit behind a desk a lot of the day coding. I took a sharp turn and started on the pre-med route as a biology major. I was drawn to the pre-med route because that is one of the careers I was interested in when I was in high school. My mom is a nurse and I have been close to the medical field all my life and many aspects of medicine have convinced me to pursue it. I switched my major once more before switching it to microbiology. Some of the things that attracted me to the major were the upper-level courses I would get to take in the microbiology major. So far, I have absolutely loved them. Courses like Immunology, Virology, and more have been an absolute pleasure to learn about.
Who has been the most influential mentor or professor during your time at WSU?
I would say the most influential professor during my time here at WSU has been Dr. Mixter. This is my third semester straight of having him as a professor and I have truly grown as a student since having him as a professor. His passion for teaching really shows and he is very flexible to help his students. He really wants his students to learn. Additionally, he goes beyond standard material, he wants his students to succeed in other aspects of science, like getting careers, and very importantly, communicating science. This latter aspect is not touched on by many professors and I believe is a vital part of our education.
What advice would you give to someone considering majoring within a field in the College of Veterinary Medicine?
For an individual thinking of majoring in a field within the College of Veterinary Medicine, I would say choose the major in which the upper division classes interest you the most. The core education for all the majors is the same, but the majors differ in those upper division classes. The more passionate you are about these classes, the more you will want to learn and will learn!
What’s your favorite thing about WSU?
I would say my favorite thing about WSU is the diverse number of clubs. There are so many clubs for which people can get involved. With these clubs, you can find your own community and make lifelong friendships during your education here. These clubs give students a great opportunity to be involved outside of their studies, which is great for the mind and soul.
What are your post-graduation plans?
Following graduation, I will be applying for medical school and hope to matriculate 2026. In between that, I will have a gap year in which I would like to find a job related to research to expand my resume. Following medical school, I would like to become a primary care physician and serve a community in need as one of my main goals in life is to give back.
What hobbies or extracurricular activities have you enjoyed at WSU?
As I spoke about a little earlier, I am a climber. I have been climbing for about 4.5 years and coming to WSU, I found Climbing Club. This gave me a community outside of my education. Finding hobbies outside of education is extremely crucial as it helps me be a better student by enriching my physical and mental health. Additionally, having the opportunity to take trips on the weekends to go climb and be in nature is truly enriching. Currently, I am president of Climbing Club and have been learning a lot in that position.
What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
A fun fact about me that many people don’t know is that I own three cats! Along with my partner, we have adopted three unique cats that came from a barn litter, a dryer vent (you heard that right), and just outside my front door here in Pullman. These three cats are absolutely wonderful for stressful times, except when one of them tries to bite my feet.