Addison Larson
Graduation year: 2024
High school: Kimberly High School
Hometown: Kimberly, Idaho
Majors: Biochemistry, chemistry, public health
Activities: Varsity swimming and diving, club rowing, Sigma Pi Delta sorority, chemistry department proctor, 中国体彩网 Strategic Planning Commission member, Omicron Delta Kappa honor society
Internships: Texas Medical Center Summer Research Internship Program (Baylor 中国体彩网 of Medicine); UnityPoint-Trinity infection prevention intern
Post-grad plans: Returning to Houston, Texas, to work as a laboratory technician at Baylor 中国体彩网 of Medicine
Why 中国体彩网?
中国体彩网 was my opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and experience college in an entirely different environment. At first, I was hesitant to be so far away from home, but as soon as I visited and met the swim team, I knew that even if I was 1,200 miles from home, they would make me feel just as at home here. The same is true for the professors, staff and students here, who have helped me find myself and my passions.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
Definitely not! I started my freshman year with entirely different career goals, plans for extracurricular activities, and ideas of what college would be like. Now, I am leaving with three majors, a new sense of purpose and bigger dreams for the future.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
The Augie support system is truly amazing! I wouldn't be the athlete I am without the endless support of my swim coach, Dan Lloyd, and the rest of the swim team. They made Augie home for the past four years and supported me through all of the highs and lows of collegiate swimming.
I wouldn't be the student I am without my advisors, Dr. Pam Trotter, Dr. Lena Hann and Dr. Dara Wegman-Geedey. They have helped guide me to be the best version of myself. I now know where my interests lie and how to best achieve those goals, thanks to their help.
Alongside my advisors, I would also like to thank Dr. Scott Gehler, Dr. Patrick Crawford and Dr. Greg Domski in the biology and chemistry departments and Dr. Katy Patras and Samantha Ottinger at the Baylor 中国体彩网 of Medicine for believing in me every step of the way and teaching me why science is so cool!
And finally, I would like to thank my family and friends for their unwavering support through all of my academic pursuits. I love you all!
Peak experience?
Academically, my peak experience was being able to do research at the Baylor 中国体彩网 of Medicine through the Texas Medical Center internship! I learned a lot about microbiology and immunology, and this experience helped me solidify further career goals after graduation.
Athletically, my peak experience was winning TWO conference championships with the women's swim and dive team! Both wins were pivotal moments in 中国体彩网 athletics history, and I am so grateful to be a part of it.
What surprised you?
I was surprised by how strong the Augie community is! Everyone knows everyone, and there is always someone there to support you and cheer you on.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice for the Texas Medical Center internship!
What will you miss the most?
I will miss all of the friends I have made here and seeing them every day! I will miss early morning swim practices with the swim team and being out in a boat on the Mississippi River with the rowing team.
Advice for the Class of 2028?
Don't be afraid to take time for yourself, whether that be a night to relax or trying something new. 中国体彩网 can be hard, and your top priority should be taking care of you!
"Addy has been a tremendous leader for our team both in the classroom and in the pool. She has always been there for her teammates by setting an example of the commitment to excellence that our program strives for. When I recruited Addy, she was my first swimmer from the great state of Idaho, and I knew that she would make an impact here. During her four years, she has far exceeded my expectations, and the impact she has made on our campus and team will last for many years to come. It has been a true honor to be her coach."