Noorie Sandhu

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Major & Minor
Major: Molecular & Cellular Biology
Minor: Physiology

Hometown
Solon, OH

What made you choose your science major at this school?

• I chose to major in MCB as I was fascinated at how one could study life on the cellular and molecular level. Moreover, MCB allowed me to truly appreciate the work that goes into making discoveries by allowing me to learn and see the real application of what I learn in the classroom translate into research. Also, after interacting with MCB students and faculty on Admitted Students Day, I appreciated the warm and welcoming environment the department promoted and knew it would be my home away from home. The professors and advisors are supportive of your goals, and the smaller-sized classes allow you to make closer connections with peers and faculty.

How hard were the intro science classes compared to high school?

• Even though I had taken some AP-level science classes, college classes are still more challenging than high school classes, as the professors want you to truly apply what you know rather than recite facts; this can make it more challenging but it does enrich your learning experience. Overall, by utilizing office hours, actively participating in class, and working with my peers, it is very much possible to do well in harder-level classes.

Do professors actually teach, or are most classes taught by TAs?

• The majority of classes I have taken have all been taught directly by professors themselves! This is great because it allows students to form a relationship with professors that's meaningful. The only time I have ever had a TA teach a class is with regards to labs. Usually, TAs help facilitate lab meetings and are still experts in their fields, as they are often graduate students.

How easy is it to get help if you’re struggling in a science class?

• The amazing part of being a CoS student at the UA is that there are so many resources and opportunities for you to use if you are struggling. For instance, one can use office hours, THINK TANK (a facility with free drop-in tutoring), the SALT Center, or even work with their peers to deepen their understanding. Everyone at the UA is here to support each other and it's through supporting each other where community forms and Wildcats succeed!

When can students start doing research (freshman year or later)?

• I know people who have started doing research at the UA as early as the summer BEFORE freshman year! This is truly an amazing part of the UA that makes it stand out from other universities, as there are countless ways to get involved in research and numerous research interests to explore. However, there is also no rush to start research that early! For some, its best to first get situated in college with their classes and lifestyle before getting involved in research. Your path will be unique!

How did you get involved in research or labs?

• I got involved in my research lab, which studies the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive prostate cancer invasion and metastasis, through the Undergraduate Research Biology Program (UBRP). UBRP is a great program for students who have or don't have prior research experience, as it allows students to see if research is for them. I found my lab originally by going on the Cancer Center website (the department of research that I was interested in) and looking for PI's who were conducting research. After finding my PI, I read some of her research papers and expressed my interest to join her lab.

Are research opportunities competitive or fairly accessible?

• Research opportunities are VERY accessible! There are constantly new opportunities presented to students that range anywhere from conducting wet lab research on cancer cells to working in fields and studying plants.

Do students get paid for research or is it mostly for credit?

• It depends! For some labs with more funding, it is definitely possible to get paid to conduct research. For other labs, it may be easier for them to support a student in their lab via academic credit/volunteer work. Regardless of if it's for pay, credit, or volunteer credit, research will give you invaluable skills and allow you to translate information from the classroom to real-world issues.

What does a typical week look like for a science major?

• Typically, each semester I take anywhere from 4-7 science based courses, while juggling club responsibilities and working in my lab. On the weekends, I will also volunteer to give back to the Tucson community.

How much time do you actually spend studying?

• I spend a lot of time studying, but usually because of my own interest! Once I am done with classes, research, and club activities, you will most likely typically find me in the library studying and trying to learn more about a topic!

What’s the hardest science class you’ve taken—and why?

• The most challenging science class I've taken to date is biochemistry. It was challenging because we were truly encouraged to apply the concepts we learned to new scenarios, usually about health or other-related topics. However, as I developed and interest for the class, it made it easier to learn the material because I wanted to learn the material.

What do you wish you had known before coming here?

• Make use of every opportunity, whether that's academic or personal. The beauty about the UA is that there is so much diversity on-campus. This makes our university truly rewarding because we can interact with people from all different backgrounds. As such, I would encourage people to not only talk to people and engage in clubs that suit your interest but also to step out of your comfort zone. 

  I would also say that even though the UA campus appears large, it's not overwhelmingly large where you may feel lost. I constantly run into people I know everyday when I come to campus, which makes it truly homely. If you ever feel lost or confused about where to go, everyone is always super supportive and will help you!

What clubs and/or organizations are you involved with?

• Clubs I'm involved with include: Youth Health Advocates (co-founder and co-president), Physiology Club (clinical chair), Undergraduate Journal Club (vice-president), and Alpha Epsilon Delta. I would highly recommend you to join any of these clubs if you're interested in advocacy, medicine, research, or health, respectively!

What are your future plans after graduation?

• I aspire to attend medical school and become a surgical oncologist! I also hope to travel the world and experience the beauties of different countries and cultures.