I am grateful for Peninsula College and the opportunities it afforded me, teaching me skills to become successful at the University of Washington and beyond.
I attended Peninsula College from 2014 to 2016 through the Running Start Program and graduated with my Associate of Arts in 2016. After graduation, I transferred to the University of Washington and graduated with a BS in Biology and BA in Psychology in 2020. I am currently applying and interviewing for medical school and was recently accepted into the University of Arizona School of Medicine!
My time at Peninsula College set the foundation for me to get accepted into medical school. It’s where I first discovered my passion and knack for STEM courses while taking the introductory biology, general chemistry, and calculus series. I had many mentors at PC who helped me become the student I am today. Some of my favorite memories include sampling the wetland area behind campus and performing my first PCR test with Dr. Brian Hauge, as well as learning about careers in STEM at a local water treatment facility with Dr. Weintraub and the chemistry club.
PC alumnus Sydney Roberts
At PC, I had the opportunity to collaborate with my peers in small class settings and explore concepts further with professors during office hours. These experiences gave me confidence when I transferred to UW and started taking large lecture courses with 300 students. My transition to UW was easier because I knew the format of college courses and what it takes to succeed in them. The AA degree I eared at Peninsula College allowed me to immediately transfer into the Biology Department at UW and pursue a second degree in psychology because I was able to complete most of my prerequisites at PC.
Another large aspect of my time at the College was being a part of the Associated Student Council. During my last year at PC, I served as ASC President and worked with my student council to install water bottle filling stations around campus, redesign furniture in the PUB, and organize legislative forums with senators and representatives. My advisor, Rick Ross, taught me that I had a voice and could make a lasting impact on my community and campus. I carried this belief with me, and it has helped me grow in leadership positions at UW and in clinical settings.
I would recommend Peninsula College to anyone interested in seeking higher education or a new career path. The instructors and staff are truly invested in the success of their students and will support them through their journeys to reach that success.
