Senior Year Highlights
This year is definitely the one of the busiest and most enriching I’ve had during my Vanderbilt experience so far. Not only are classes interesting, but I’ve been given the chance to participate in a lot of other incredible experiences as well. Based on this, I thought I’d share some of the highlights I’ve experienced throughout my time as a senior at Vanderbilt.
First, I’ll speak briefly about academic and career interests. This year, I applied to medical school, which gave me the opportunity to visit a breadth of cities (some for the first time ever) and to meet new people along the interview trail. Not to mention, I got into medical school and will have the opportunity to continue along the path to pursuing my passion! I can’t wait to see where this path will lead me, and though I have yet to decide on a school I am sure it will be a wonderful place. Aside from medical school, I’ve had the opportunity to work on an independent passion project in my research lab as well as take classes in my areas of interest outside of science such as in rock music and film. It’s been an enriching year, and fortunately not too stressful. All in all, I’ve gained so much related to my career and academic interests as a senior.
Next, I’ve really had the opportunity to explore Nashville more than in the past. I’ve gotten to take classes at a local coffee shop about coffee science and history, go to the US coffee championship quarterfinals, and visit all the coffee shops that I had been meaning to go to but hadn’t gotten around to (sensing a theme here?). I’ve eaten at a lot of fun restaurants, spent more time in nature, and taken advantage of the music scene. Additionally, this spring I will be training for my very first half-marathon, which is also on my 21st birthday so needless to say it should be eventful.
Finally, at Vanderbilt this year I’ve really had the opportunity to deepen many of my close relationships and spend time with people I care about. I’ve convinced friends to participate in a Latin dance showcase with me, started a dumb joint Instagram with my former VUcept vice president, and watched some of the AFI’s 100 best movies with a film fanatic friend. Whether it’s studying together, watching movies, or just hanging out, I know that these are the memories I will treasure the most.
Thanks for reading, and if you have any questions regarding senior year or life at Vanderbilt, feel free to contact me at alex.rains@vanderbilt.edu.