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May 24, 2010  Jason Koski/University Photography Senior profile: Jane Rhyu
Major: Biology Why did you choose Cornell?
Because it has a strong science and research program. The fact that the campus had its own orchards and made its own ice cream was a definite plus! Main Cornell extracurricular activity -- why is it important to you?
Founding and becoming the president of the Cornell chapter of Global Medical Brigades. A semester after the club's founding, I went to Honduras with 15 other students, medicines and two wonderful doctors. We traveled around rural areas as a mobile medical unit and treated more than 500 patients. The experience opened my eyes to a new environment and helped me realize that it is entirely possible for a small, motivated group to make a meaningful impact on others. While at Cornell, what other accomplishments/activities are you most proud of?
I have conducted research on epilepsy in David Deitcher's lab using bang-sensitive lines of Drosophila melanogaster as a model. I have volunteered at hospitals, including the Cayuga Medical Center, and edited and wrote for the undergraduate science journal, The Triple Helix. I was also designated a Campus Changemaker and was invited to a forum where I felt humbled to learn about the amazing activities that students have accomplished as leaders on campus. Your most profound turning point while at Cornell?
Opening an e-mail from Dr. Suzanne Anderson saying that she and her colleague Dr. Catherine Husa were interested in coming with my club to Honduras. Their kindness in devoting so much time and energy on the efforts of a fledgling club's first medical mission trip was inspiring. As corny as it sounds, at that moment, I realized that there are so many wonderful people out there. And part of what makes life rich is seeking them out. Through them, I have come to realize the type of person I want to be. Who or what at Cornell influenced your Cornell education the most?
Two classes - "Drugs and the Brain," taught by Ron Harris-Warrick, the faculty adviser for Cornell Global Medical Brigades, and "Darwinian Medicine," taught by Paul Sherman. Also, David Deitcher's lab. Did any of your beliefs or interests change during your time at Cornell?
I came to realize that it is sometimes necessary to throw caution to the wind and plunge into activities that I believe in - whether or not the results may live up to my perfectionistic expectations. It's important to just be yourself and to be genuine, mistakes and flaws included. After all, there is nothing more precious than being able to get yourself back up on your feet. What Cornell memory do you treasure the most?
The first snowfall every year. Being raised in California, snow was a novelty to me. Walking in the bitter cold, I would complain with my friends but simultaneously be in awe of how beautiful the campus was. And when spring came, the snow disappeared and the trees would be in full bloom. Being able to share such experiences with my friends was priceless. What are your plans for next year; where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I will be attending medical school next year. Ten years down the line, I hope that I will be a useful person in the community and an active member in international medicine. Most of all, I hope to continually grow, to be open to new ideas and challenges, and to become a person who is worthy of being someone's doctor. |
