SARASOTA, Fla. (Jan. 20, 2017) High school students interested in science and health care careers are invited to a free Biology Open House at USF Sarasota-Manatee’s teaching labs at Mote Marine Laboratory. The Jan. 28 workshop includes a tour of USFSM’s chemistry and biology labs, interactive presentations and an information session with students and science professors. Attendees will examine scientific equipment, learn about USFSM’s biology program and talk with faculty about careers in science, medicine and engineering. “We want students and their parents to come to our facility at Mote, have a good time and find a hidden gem in USF Sarasota-Manatee,” Assistant Director of Admissions Brandon Avery said. “This event can really help students make a decision about where they want to spend their collegiate careers.” The event is open to all high school and transfer students and their parents. Light refreshments will be served and free passes to the Mote Marine Aquarium will be provided after the event. The session will run from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Jan. 28, at USFSM’s teaching labs at Mote Marine Laboratory, 1730 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. For questions, contact Mallory Godwin at (941) 359-4285 or godwinm@sar.usf.edu. To register for the open house, visit usfsm.edu/event/biology-open-house-3. Biology student to become veterinarian Kudos to biology student Cristina Solorzano for her acceptance into the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Solorzano, who is scheduled to begin veterinary classes this fall, joined USFSM’s biology program in January 2015 after receiving a bachelor’s degree in advertising design at Veritas University in San Jose, Costa Rica. After a brief graphic design career, Solorzano said she decided to switch careers and pursue her true passion, veterinary care. “It’s always been there,” said Solorzano, 29, a Costa Rican native. “I grew up surrounded by animals: dogs, cats, bunnies, chickens. We even had hedgehogs. We had a big back yard.” Solorzano began working at a veterinary office in Bradenton a few years ago and last summer applied for admission to UF’s College of Veterinary Medicine, the state’s only veterinary college. She was elated this past December to receive an email congratulating her on her acceptance. Solorzano said she plans to focus on the care of domestic animals – dogs and cats – but also admits an affinity for birds and other exotic creatures as well. Organic chemistry instructor Dr. Edie Banner said she was “thrilled” to hear about Solorzano’s acceptance. She described her as a committed, hard-working student. “It’s not easy to change careers like that, and the program here is very difficult, but she wanted to get through it and go for her dream,” she said. “I am absolutely thrilled for her.” Solorzano said she’ll leave USFSM at the end of this term. Leaving will be bittersweet, she said. “I will really miss my professors and friends here. I’ve gotten attached to them. I’m going to miss their support.” More lunch options coming USF Sarasota-Manatee students will soon enjoy more lunch options. Through an arrangement with Student Government, the Traveling Kitchen food truck has agreed to make stops at the campus courtyard each Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Expect a menu of breakfast burritos, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, fries and weekly specials. ### |
|
About USF Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM) USF Sarasota-Manatee is a regional campus of the University of South Florida system, offering the prestige of a nationally ranked research university with the convenience of a hometown location, including classes in Manatee County, Venice and online. Separately accredited, USFSM is ideal for those interested in pursuing a baccalaureate or master’s degree, professional certification, or continuing education credit in a small, personal setting with distinguished faculty and a dynamic curriculum of over 40 academic programs. Website: www.usfsm.edu. |