Melissa Wydak SEBS'24

How Has Your Understanding of Microbiology Evolved, and How Has This Changed Your Perspective?

Starting college amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and taking gen micro at my prior university ignited my interest in microbiology. Transferring to Rutgers my knowledge of the vast scope of microbiology was very limited. However, over the course of my three years, I learned a lot. Most importantly, it has really shaped me into the student I am today. Though I enjoyed the courses I took (especially the labs), my understanding of microbiology truly evolved when taking Ethics and Issues in Microbiology and Seminar in Microbiology (PDF). Despite being just 1 credit classes, both of these courses required critical thinking and discussion amongst peers. Whether it was learning through reading books written on the premise of microbes or choosing papers to dissect in seminar; discourse with my classmates really allowed me to hear different perspectives. These experiences were invaluable in expanding my thinking beyond scientific concepts and helped me appreciate the broader implications of microbiology in society.

What Advice Would You Give to Prospective Students?

Lean on your peers! Having the opportunity to participate in the peer mentor program with the microbiology department really brought my classmates and me together. By my senior year, we became a tight-knit group. One of my biggest regrets is not getting closer to my peers earlier in my academic journey. Regardless of how challenging the courses got, it was always comforting to know that I wasn't alone and had friends to go through it with. This not only made my time at Rutgers more enjoyable, but it also helped me gain new perspectives and insights, making me more confident as I move forward into my future endeavors!