William B. Douglas Carolina Scholar 
Phillips Exeter Academy 
Columbia, South Carolina 
Biology  

The road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom.

William Blake 

Impactful experience:
Going into college, I felt that I had a lot to learn outside of the classroom. It was not always a straight path forward, but my group of close friends has had a profound impact on my growth as a student, friend, and member of my communities both big and small.  They push me to push myself to be who I want to be, and I don't think there exists a sign of better friends. 

Enjoy most as a TS: 
I am grateful for the opportunity to study at a world-class university and not have to worry about student loans.

Story:
I was at the women's basketball game against number nine ranked Mississippi State way high up in the rafters. My friend and I knew of the excellent program Dawn Staley was running, but we had never been to one of their games. Starting from the initial smoke and lights introductions of the starting five and ending with the nailbiting free throws to seal the game, we witnessed 18,000 fans cheer for something that does not always get the spotlight. Even from way high up in the nosebleeds, the electricity was contagious. After the game, a UofSC alumna came up to me and said "I love your energy." I was proud to be a Gamecock. 

Post-graduate plans: 
Andrew will be furthering his education at the University of Oxford to obtain a Master's in Pharmacology. Afterwards, Andrew plans on attending medical school back in the United States. 

Career goals/professional aspirations: 
I want to bridge the gap between doctors and patients by incorporating the patient story more into all aspects of healthcare.