Outstanding Seniors in the College of Science: Jillian Sweetland
Jillian Sweetland, Molecular & Cellular Biology
This spring, departments in the University of Arizona's College of Science nominated an outstanding senior who went above and beyond during their time as a Wildcat. We are pleased to share their stories as they reflect on their time at UArizona. Next in the senior spotlight series is Jillian Sweetland from the department of Molecular & Cellular Biology.
Jillian Sweetland
Molecular & Cellular Biology
College of Science: Why did you choose your area of study?
Sweetland: My high school was a “career completer” school, so every student was required to take a course that would get them certified to start in that field at the end of senior year. I wanted to take auto shop, but my mom said no, so I chose biotechnology. That course is the reason why I chose to study molecular and cellular biology; I absolutely loved being in the lab, and I knew I wanted to be a scientist after that course! So, when I was accepted at the University of Arizona and saw that students were able to conduct research the first semester they were here, I immediately jumped on the opportunity, and I’ve been in my research lab ever since.
COS: Tell us about a class or research project you really enjoyed
Sweetland: I think my favorite class I’ve taken at the University of Arizona was MCB301. It was the first class required for the MCB major, and it combined both molecular biology and biochemistry into one course, which I really enjoyed. It allowed me to see the mechanisms behind how life works from two different angles, and I was also able to preceptor for the class and give back to the UofA by teaching this course to other students.
COS: What is one specific memory from your time at UA that you'll cherish forever?
Sweetland: It's so hard to pick just one because I have so many amazing memories at the UofA, but I’d say one of the memories I’ll cherish forever was tutoring a blind student in organic chemistry. It was one of the most interesting experiences I’ve ever had and really made me see science and how to teach from a different angle. This student was one of the most intelligent people I have ever met and being able to support their journey in STEM is something I’ll never forget.
COS: What is next for you after graduation?
Sweetland: After graduation, I will be pursuing a PhD in Biomedical Sciences at UC San Diego! Long term, I hope to run a research lab studying cancer and continue my passion of translating scientific research to the community.