Elizabeth Ginalis, 2016

Medical Student, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey

How has being a P&N graduate helped shape your professional success?

Studying neuroscience at Duke has strengthened my deep interest in the brain, its functions, and its disorders. The clinical application of neuroscience is significant and continues to grow. My neuroscience education and research as an undergraduate further reinforced my interest in going to medical school and becoming a physician. The academic rigor of the neuroscience courses, writing a thesis, and neuroscience research all helped to shape my success in medical school. It has prepared me for the challenging medical courses and research projects as a medical student. Beyond this, it has taught me how to think critically and problem solve in professional settings.

What advice would you give students in Neuroscience?

Explore and be curious! Engage in a variety of neuroscience classes, research, internships, and events. There is so much to learn, so take advantage of the variety of opportunities available. Go beyond the classroom to apply hands-on the knowledge you gain from courses. Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary field -- so be creative and apply what you learn in unique ways. Challenge yourself and enjoy the learning process.

Elizabeth Ginalis, 2016