As the academic year draws to a close, we thought we might take the time to introduce you to some of our Alumni Association Scholarship recipients. Today, we hear from Samantha Eng ’16, biological sciences.
Name: Samantha Eng
Major: Biological Sciences
Grad Year: 2016
Extracurriculars: Undergraduate Research Award (URA) Scholar, Biology Teaching Assistant, Meyerhoff Program Peer Advisor, UMBC Office of Undergraduate Admissions Student Assistant
Why did you decide to attend UMBC? I was part of the premed college program at Brooklyn Technical High School in NYC. UMBC was one of the schools we visited on our tour of the Baltimore area. I chose UMBC for the school’s dedication to research and the Meyerhoff Scholars Program. When I was applying to colleges, the program’s staff, mentorship, and record of success in encouraging students to pursue graduate studies after UMBC always stood out to me.
What’s been the most amazing discovery you’ve made so far as a student? I am amazed about how much I was able to accomplish and experience during my short time at UMBC. This was made possible by my supportive advisors, mentors, and classmates who constantly motivated me.
What are you most proud of accomplishing during your time at UMBC? I am proud to leave my comfort zone and try new things. UMBC has so many opportunities for students to get involved. I currently study darter fish in Dr. Mendelson’s lab in the Biology Department, serve as a lead teaching assistant for Biology Lab, work in the admissions office, and work closely with my scholarship program. There really is something for everyone as long as you are willing to put yourself out there and participate.
What would you say to the people who provided your scholarship? I am honored to have received the UMBC Alumni Association Scholarship. Thank you for investing in my future as I apply to medical and graduate school programs. I am thankful to those who continue to give back to UMBC and who have really shown me their support.
What do you hope to do after graduation? I hope to study developmental biology in graduate school.
