Hi there!! My name is Tatiana Njoroge, and I am majoring in Biomedical Sciences at UCF with a minor in Medical Sociology. I am currently in my Senior year at UCF. I was homeschooled during high school and completed some dual-enrollment classes at Lake Sumter State College.

Genetics has been one of my favorite classes at UCF because of how it blends the foundations of biology with real-world applications. In genetics, it feels like each concept is a puzzle piece that you are putting together to understand the foundations of life. I also love genetics because it lies at the intersection of research and medicine. Learning about topics like gene expression, mutations, and genetic therapies reminds me of the incredible potential of science to treat diseases and improve lives.

My favorite professor at UCF is Dr. Paul Lawrence, who teaches organic chemistry 1 and 2. Organic chemistry is one of the hardest classes that I have taken, but it pushed me to grow so much as a student. Dr. Larence pushes students to grow outside of their comfort zone, and he truly tries to help students succeed. I am very thankful for the opportunity to have been working as a TA for him for 4 semesters now.

I chose to get involved with the STEM Ambassador program because I want to share my enthusiasm for biomedical science and medicine with younger students. I think it’s important to help students understand that STEM isn’t just about equations or experiments; it’s about improving lives and shaping the future. As a woman in STEM, I also hope to serve as a role model, showing other young women that their voices and ambitions belong in science. STEM can be challenging, but take every challenge as an opportunity to grow. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or take risks. Remember that failure doesn’t define you; determination and resilience are what truly define success. Believe in your potential, and know that you have what it takes to lead the next wave of science that will change the world.

Outside of school, I love spending time with friends and finding new adventures. One of my favorite hobbies is line dancing, which has helped me build a community of friends who share my love for music and dance. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a busy week of studying, and a great way to de-stress after exams. I also love to travel and explore different places around Orlando. I think it’s important to step outside your comfort zone and try new experiences. Growth doesn’t only happen in classrooms or labs; it happens in the people we meet and the experiences and connections that shape us.