Hi! My name is Emilie Smith. Growing up, I moved around a bit until my family settled in Charlotte, NC. I lived there for 14 years until I went to college at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss).

At Ole Miss, I studied biochemistry as well as worked in a research lab. During my time there, I learned to love learning and thoroughly enjoy research.

These are just two of the reasons for which I was drawn to the UT Health San Antonio Personalized Molecular Medicine program. I knew that I wanted to further my education as well as make a great impact on society. Conducting research and learning about new treatment plans in the Personalized Molecular Medicine program would allow me to meet this goal. Upon graduating this program, my goals are to either pursue my doctorate or become a physician.

Either one of these career paths would allow me to continue research as well as helping others. Even though there are many programs around the country that could help me achieve my goals, UT Health San Antonio stood out to me for several reasons.

First, the arrangement of the curriculum demonstrated to me how significant conducting proper research and learning correct research methods was to the institution. Second, the location of the school allows for many opportunities in the future, whether it be the private sector, medical school, or a Ph.D. program. Lastly, the faculty I have been able to communicate with are phenomenal and extremely welcoming. Each and everyone of them seems extremely proud of the work they are doing and welcoming to new students. In my free time, I enjoy camping, cooking, and trying new foods. I am excited to have a new city to explore!