Saoirse Disney-McKeethen of Rice University: Cell Biology, Microbial Evolution Research, and Quiz Bowl.

Saoirse Disney-McKeethen of Rice University: Cell Biology, Microbial Evolution Research, and Quiz Bowl.

Author: Venkat Raman August 21, 2023 Duration: 45:15

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Saoirse was interested in microbiology in High School. This may have had a lot to do with all the volunteering she did at the Hot Springs National Park. She loved nature and hiking.

She also did some research focused on bats at the Park.

Saoirse joins us on our podcast to share her undergraduate journey at Rice, Transition to college, UG Research, Impact of Research, and Advice for high schoolers. 

In particular, we discuss the following with her: 

  • Overall Experience at Rice
  • UG Research
  • Quiz Bowl
  • Majoring in Cell Biology
  • Advice to High Schoolers

Topics discussed in this episode:

  • Introduction to Saoirse Disney-McKeethen of Rice U []
  • Hi Fives - Podcast Highlights []
  • Overall Rice Experience []
  • Why Rice? []
  • High School Interests []
  • Importance of UG Research []
  • Transition to College []
  • Peers []
  • Professors and Teaching []
  • Introduction to UG Research []
  • Flavor of Research []
  • Takeaways from UGR []
  • Impact of UGR []
  • Campus Activities []
  • Majoring in Cell Biology []
  • Advice for High Schoolers []
  • Memories []

Our Guest: Saoirse Disney-McKeethen recently graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Cell Biology from Rice University.

Memorable Quote:So learning like not just like your immediate friends and asking them for help forming study groups, but also knowing who sort of like your peer academic mentors are, how to go to their study hours, take advantage of that resource, knowing when your professors office hours are, how to get help from them. ” Saoirse Disney-McKeethen.

Episode Transcript: Please visit Episode’s Transcript.

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Navigating the path from high school to college is filled with big questions and personal choices. College Matters. Alma Matters., hosted by Venkat Raman, offers a space for those stories, moving beyond dry advice to share real conversations. Each episode brings forward the voices of people who have been exactly where you are-alumni reflecting on their campus lives, faculty members discussing what they look for in students, admissions officers demystifying their process, and counselors offering grounded strategies. This isn't about a single formula for success; it's about hearing a diverse collection of journeys and practical insights that can help you shape your own. Tuning into this podcast feels like getting honest, thoughtful perspectives from a trusted mentor. The focus remains on authentic personal experiences, from the challenges of preparation to the transformative moments of actual college life. By presenting these narratives, the aim is to both inform and inspire, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of what lies ahead. For any student charting their course toward higher education, these conversations can be a valuable companion, offering clarity and encouragement for the road ahead.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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