Tell us a little about your background?

I was born and raised in Germany for 16 years of my life to immigrant parents. My younger brother, Sebastian, currently attends the University of Cologne where he studies biology. I came to the Valley over six years ago with the intention of pursuing my education in a country that has always been the subject of my dreams, namely the United States.

What motivated you to be a good student?

The biggest motivator in my life to be a good student has probably been my family situation. Growing up my family was always struggling, not only financially but also personally. Neither of my parents were able to complete high school and thus continuously struggled to find work. Ever since I was a child I felt that I had the potential, dedication, and motivation to escape this vicious circle. Once I started to get encouragement from my teachers and my mother, the rest came naturally.

What is the best advice you have for current and future UTPA students?

The best advice I can give to UTPA students is to never give up. Many students at UTPA, just like me, face difficulties and struggles on a daily basis. It is important to tell these students that difficult times are temporary and will pass. Success starts when you tell yourself that you have the potential to succeed in whatever you chose to do. I am well aware that obtaining an education might not seem as easy at times. However, when you see your education as an opportunity to grow as a person, both intellectually and personally, you will be rewarded. Try not to worry too much about grades when taking classes. Instead, think about how much knowledge and wisdom you are able to attain.

How did UTPA make a difference in your life?

UTPA has enabled me to become a stronger and more confident individual. When I started college I did not know if I had the potential to achieve my goals. However, the continuous encouragement from my professors and fellow students has enabled me to overcome my insecurities. Now, I strongly believe that UTPA is an excellent institution that enables students to achieve their dreams by fostering talent in many perspectives. Because of my education at UTPA, I have been able to compete for awards and graduate school with students from institutions like Harvard, MIT, Yale, etc. The wonderful memories and friendships I have made at UTPA will last a lifetime.

Who or what inspires you to succeed not only in your education, but in life too?

My family has inspired me to succeed in everything I have done so far. I know what it feels like to struggle at times, but at the same time I know that there are people in my life who are there for me and whom I can turn to. At UTPA, I would like to especially acknowledge Dr. Banik (Department of Chemistry) who has been my mentor for the past three years. He has shown me what it means to become a research scientist, and through him I have been able to grow both as a person and scientist. Additionally, I would like to thank Ms. Dodd (Department of Biology) who has always been there for me when I had difficulties and has given me continuous support and encouragement. Her passion for teaching is unparalleled.

What are your plans for the future (jobs, travel, etc.) now that you have graduated?

I have been accepted into six M.D./Ph.D. programs across the country, including Yale, Cornell, Baylor College of Medicine, UT Southwestern, UT Houston, and UTMB. After careful consideration, I have decided to pursue my education at Baylor College of Medicine this fall where I will obtain both my M.D. and Ph.D. degrees within the next several years. My ultimate career goals are to become a neurosurgeon and a medical research scientist investigating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s in addition to working on new therapeutic applications for stem cells.

How will you feel when you walk across the stage to receive your diploma?

I will feel both accomplished and a little frightened. I will feel accomplished because I have been able to close one chapter in my life and I have succeeded at what I intended to do. The feeling of fright will stem from the fact that UTPA has been “my home” for the past four years and now it is time to close this chapter in my life and move on to the next big step. Every time a new path in life starts, it comes with new obstacles and insecurities. But I am ready to take this great step.

What made your time at UTPA happy and successful?

UTPA is a wonderful institution with many opportunities for students to grow intellectually and personally. I love the diversity of students and faculty at this amazing institution. I remember having some of the most intriguing, inspirational, and diverse conversations on this campus. Many of the individuals I have met at UTPA have become lifelong friends who I will be in touch with for the years to come.