Ask me about...
Undergraduate research, USC's student-led radio station and the Top Scholars Program!
Hi, my name is Hannah! I am currently working on two research projects, one in environmental chemistry and the other in cell toxicology. After I graduate, I want to get my master's or do research for a year abroad in Germany or the U.K., earn a Ph.D. and eventually become a professor.
- Hometown: Spartanburg, South Carolina
- Major/Minor(s): Chemistry; Environmental and Sustainable Engineering, Neuroscience
- Year: Class of 2027
Why I chose the South Carolina Honors College
During my college application process, I was very unsure of what I wanted. However, when I attended an Honors College Info Session, I could see that the students and staff at USC would support me and help me figure out what I wanted. I realized that at the Honors College I could do almost anything with the resources that they and USC have to offer.
My advice for prospective students: Consider what’s important to you. Is it research? Diversity? Prestige? Narrowing down the size, location, opportunities, culture etc. of the school you want will help you make your decision. And no matter where you end up, you can make the most of your four years!
Something I’m proud of that’s not on my resume: This past spring break, I participated in a week-long leadership expedition in Belize, despite having only travelled outside of Northern America once before and not knowing anyone going in. Every day we took on a new physical challenge, such as waterfall rappelling or sailing, and afterwards we would reflect on our experiences and leadership.
Favorite question during an information session: Do upper-level Honors students live on campus?
It is not required, but, yes, many do! I have lived on the Horseshoe for the past two years with some of my Honors friends and I highly recommend it. Living on the Horseshoe is not only convenient (all of my classes are within a 10-minute walk), but it also allows me to strengthen my Honors community. My favorite example of this is when my roommate and I were both applying to a fellowship during sophomore year. We worked on our applications together, and while she got it sophomore year and I didn't, I reapplied junior year with her help and received it!
Quick Facts
| My clubs and organizations: | Outside of Honors Ambassadors, I have been part of USC’s student-led radio station WUSC-FM since my first semester on campus, and now I am both the station manager and a DJ. I am also part of USC's American Chemical Society student chapter and the Stamps/Top Scholars communities. |
| Favorite place for lunch on or near campus: | Cool Beans Coffee Company. While I don't like coffee, their hot chocolate and croissants are amazing. |
| Theme song of my life: | This changes every month, but right now it is Tokyo Reggie by Masayoshi Takanaka! It is the perfect combination of hope, joy and nostalgia. |
| Skill I’d like to develop more: | I'm currently trying to "develop" my junk journalling. I'm definitely a hoarder of things like plane tickets, receipts and stickers, so this has been a great way to actually do something with these items! |
| Something new I’d like to learn: | A big goal of mine for this summer is to start learning German. Since I really want to do research in Germany, I believe it will be very helpful! |