{"id":81850,"date":"2024-09-13T13:41:42","date_gmt":"2024-09-13T17:41:42","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/?p=81850"},"modified":"2024-09-13T13:42:03","modified_gmt":"2024-09-13T17:42:03","slug":"student-story-carly-mcdermott","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/student-story-carly-mcdermott\/","title":{"rendered":"Student Story : Carly McDermott"},"content":{"rendered":"

Name<\/b>: Carly McDermott<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"What is your hometown? <\/b>Duxbury, Massachusetts<\/span><\/p>\n

Program at BU? <\/b>Combined BA\/MS Program in Biology<\/span><\/p>\n

Please briefly introduce yourself, what\u2019s your background, where are you from, why are you studying at BU GRS?<\/b><\/p>\n

Hi there, I\u2019m Carly! I grew up in Massachusetts, about an hour south of Boston, and I\u2019m now in my fourth year at Boston University. I’m pursuing a dual degree program, working on my Master\u2019s in Biology while also completing my Bachelor\u2019s in Cellular, Molecular, and Genetic Biology, which I\u2019ll finish in Spring 2025. I am a member of the Mullen Lab for Evolutionary Genomics, where we study host plant specialization in the North American butterfly <\/span>Limenitis arthemis<\/span><\/i>. Outside of my studies, I\u2019m involved in BU\u2019s Undergraduate Pre-Medical Society and work as an Emergency Medical Technician for Boston University and a private ambulance company on the South Shore. In my free time, I really enjoy baking, diving into a good book, or spending time at the beach!<\/span><\/p>\n

Why did you choose to come to BU for your graduate degree?<\/b><\/p>\n

I chose to continue at BU for my graduate degree after enjoying my undergraduate experience here for the past three years. The opportunity to further explore the field of biology at a deeper level was very appealing to me. This particular program was ideal as it allowed me to seamlessly transition into graduate studies while remaining at an institution I\u2019ve come to know well. Additionally, the biology faculty at BU are incredibly supportive and knowledgeable; they genuinely care about cultivating the next generation of scientists.<\/span><\/p>\n

What are your favorite spots on the BU Campus?<\/b><\/p>\n

I love doing work in the corner rooms of the Center for Computing and Data Sciences (aka \u201cJenga\u201d building), which has incredible views of Boston and very comfy couches. I also love studying with friends in Fuller\u2019s Pub at BU, Pavement Coffee, and Questrom Starbucks!<\/span><\/p>\n

What is your favorite part about attending BU and studying in the US?<\/b><\/p>\n

My favorite part about attending BU is the vibrant atmosphere and the exceptional support from its biology faculty. BU\u2019s size is impressive – it\u2019s like a small city, housing countless departments, faculty across a wide array of specialties, and a diverse student body from all corners of the world. What\u2019s particularly striking is how, despite its size, BU manages to foster a sense of community. I often joke that \u201ceveryone is connected\u201d here. There\u2019s always a certain niche where you can find refuge, no matter how specific your interests are. It\u2019s not uncommon to spot at least one familiar face in class or stumble upon a group that shares your interests. This balance of expansive opportunities and close-knit communities makes BU a very enriching place to study.<\/span><\/p>\n

Moreover, the seamless transition I\u2019ve experienced between my undergraduate and graduate studies further highlights the emphasis that BU Biology places on collaboration and continuity. This smooth progression underscores the department\u2019s commitment to fostering long-term academic growth and creating a supportive learning environment\u2013something I feel extremely grateful for!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

How is life in Boston?<\/b><\/p>\n

Although the weather can be unpredictable at times, I really appreciate the walkability of both the city and BU\u2019s campus. Boston offers countless opportunities for whatever you might be interested in, from appreciating art at the MFA or ICA to exploring historical sites. As a big foodie, I love trying new restaurants across the city, and I have definitely come to find my favorite spots. Whether you\u2019re in the mood for cultural experiences, outdoor activities along the Charles River, or just soaking in the academic atmosphere, Boston has something for everyone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What do you hope to do after you graduate?<\/b><\/p>\n

After graduating, I plan to take a few gap years to gain experience before applying to medical school. My goal is to become a physician, specializing in pediatrics or obstetrics and gynecology. I\u2019m excited to use my strong foundation in biology to enhance my understanding of diseases and their mechanisms. This scientific background will be invaluable in my future medical practice, allowing me to provide more comprehensive care to my patients by combining my passion for biology with clinical medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n



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