Hometown: Brooklyn, New York
Major: Neuroscience
Why Union:
I’m a small town girl at heart. Even though I love the city, I always wanted to go to a college where I could see mountains and an actual horizon. In addition, I am extremely passionate about neuroscience. When I combine both factors, Union is what comes up. Union has one of the strongest pre-med advising programs in the country. The campus is beautiful, the people are nice, and the teachers are supportive and personable. What more could I ask? It feels like home.
Most inspiring class:
I have taken two practically life-changing classes. Medical Anthropology gave me an interesting perspective on today’s medical culture, including the history of medicine and medicine around the world. The Russian Short Story focused on reading and analyzing classic stories by writers such as Pushkin, Tolstoy and Dostoevsky.
Faculty champion:
Professor Kristin Bidoshi has been a major influence and support pillar. She has enriched my Russian language experience through her literature courses, and we see each other during weekly Russian Table. She introduced me to many other professors, such as Anastasia Pease, who’s teaching a great course on Vladimir Nabokov.
Favorite study spot:
Second floor of Schaffer Library (because of the plushy armchairs); the Minerva Houses’ study work rooms (secluded and quiet); and the third floor of the Nott Memorial (beautiful and light-filled). No matter where I study, there is always an aura of studiousness, which gives me an almost effortless focus.
Activities:
Russian and East European Culture Club, Intellectual Enrichment Grant Committee (IEG), Pre-Health Society
Things I'm passionate about at Union:
Union's commitment to diversity. As a citizen of Tajikistan and legal U.S. resident, I am proud to my cultural perspective to many groups and conversations.
Greatest Union moments:
My first college hockey game, at Messa Rink. I have always loved hockey and had attended a number of games in the past. But there’s nothing like the feeling I got sitting in the student section of the rink, cheering for my school. Excitement and anxiousness ran through my veins as we all rooted for our team to win. The proud feeling was overwhelming.
Looking into the future:
I hope to attend medical school. My dream is to become a neurosurgeon.
Advice for incoming students:
Come with an open mind. Be ready to jump into as many things as possible.