Laura volunteeringWhat’s one unexpected opportunity or experience you’ve had at Chapman that you never imagined before enrolling?

Whether it was serving as Crean College Dean’s Office Assistant (thank you Jill for letting me do cool things and making my Chapman experience so much more memorable), the President of Chapman Pre-PA Club, the Vice-President of ThinkMED, a member on the First Aid team, or a research assistant at Chapman’s Institute for Interdisciplinary Brain and Behavioral Sciences, I am beyond blessed to have been entrusted with esteemed roles that changed me for the better. Although Chapman makes it easy for students to get involved, I want to remind my fellow Panthers that your college experience is really what you make of it. As cliché as this is, my experience at Chapman is a testament to that. If I didn’t put myself out there and make an effort to challenge my limiting beliefs, I wouldn’t have had such opportunities of a lifetime I’ve been blessed to have. All this to say, thank you Chapman for truly changing my life and opening doors I never thought were possible. 

Can you share a moment when a professor, advisor, or classmate made a big difference in your college journey?

I had the immense privilege of interviewing Dr. Sternlicht for a project for my PSY 327 Life Span Development class. Dr. Sternlicht was my physio B lab professor, which is how I first learned about his inspiring life story. Little did I know how much his story would bring me to tears and have an everlasting impact on how I perceive life from that point on. To be alive is a gift, and Dr. Sternlicht’s story is a reflection of that sentiment. I am beyond grateful for the time he took to pass on his wisdom and teach me valuable life lessons. Not to mention, he is an absolute genius who is passionate about setting his students up for success. If you ever get a chance to speak with him or take his class, you’ll understand what I mean.

What’s your favorite hidden gem on campus or around town that new students have to check out?

My favorite hidden gem would have to be the outside patio on the top floor of Leatherby Libraries. It’s the perfect spot to call loved ones, get fresh air, watch the sun set as it glistens over the field, and take in the campus in all its glory. The only caveat is that the tables can get very hot, so I suggest you take a trip up there when the weather is ideal and the time is just right. 

Laura and friends

If you could describe your experience at Chapman in one word, what would it be—and why? 

Grateful. Coming into college, I was extremely shy, timid, and unsure of my life trajectory. Thankfully, I’ve been stretched and challenged in ways that have built my character and molded me into the person I am today. I’ve accomplished things that younger Laura would’ve never thought she could do. I am grateful for all the mistakes and trials that helped me to mature and grow exponentially. I am grateful for the empowering support system at Chapman, in and out of the classroom. I am grateful for my education, which is something I easily take for granted. Most of all, I am grateful for the progress Chapman has helped me to make in every aspect of my life. It’s been empowering to see how much I can change in a year, let alone four years. In all, I am proud of the version of myself who will walk that stage at graduation and confidently move forward with no regrets.

What are your future plans?

I plan on taking a gap year to obtain sufficient clinical experience before applying to PA school. I will continue working as a Medical Assistant at a dermatology office. During my gap year, I would love to go on more medical mission trips and sharpen my clinical skills abroad. I intend to become a Physician Assistant specializing in dermatology, surgery, or pediatrics. But who knows? Life will surprise me just how my time at Chapman did. With all things in life, everything must come to an end. It’s bittersweet to have to leave what was my home for the past four years. But I will cherish and implement everything I’ve learned at Chapman for the daunting yet exciting unknown ahead. 

Laura with a friend in masks