Selin Arnavut
“Our amazing faculty! Each faculty member encourages students to ask questions, stay curious, engage in extracurricular activities, and pushes them to succeed in their goals. I also want to give a shout-out to the Honors Biological Program, which truly helped me think critically about research.”
—Selin Arnavut
UB Pillars of Leadership Award recipient
Graduated 2024
University of Michigan School of Dentistry (starting this summer)
What was your career goal when you graduated, and where are you up to on that journey?
My goal is to become a dentist, and to prepare for this, I have decided to take a gap year to gain additional work experience in the dental field. I am excited to announce that I will be attending the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, ranked #1, starting this upcoming summer!
What are you currently working on professionally?
Currently, I am working as an oral surgical assistant to prepare for dental school, and I am also exploring research project ideas for when I return to school.
How has the Department of Biological Sciences helped you prepare for your goal?
Our amazing faculty! Each faculty member encourages students to ask questions, stay curious, engage in extracurricular activities, and pushes them to succeed in their goals. I also want to give a shout-out to the Honors Biological Program, which truly helped me think critically about research.
What faculty member or class brings back the best memories?
Dr. Nitasha Sehgal is an incredible mentor who is always there for me when I need her. It was also a great experience being her TA for a semester.
What is your advice to the current/future BIO students?
Do not be afraid to feel uncomfortable. Being uncomfortable when trying something new is a sign of growth!