Peer Leaders are undergraduate students who support their peers in WISCIENCE programs and courses while learning valuable leadership skills. Find out more about Elise and her experience as a Peer Leader!
Pronouns: She/her
Peer Leader for: Research
Major: Neurobiology with certificates in Athletic Healthcare and Folklore
Hometown: Middlebury, CT
What extracurricular activities are you involved in?
WISCIENCE, St. Paul’s Catholic Student Center Caller, American Medical Student Association (AMSA), and Pi Beta Phi
What do you like most about Madison?
The people! Midwesterners are very kind, indeed.
What are your favorite snacks for a study session?
Coffee or a green tea
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?
I would be a dog as they are the most beloved animals on our planet. They live a great life: sleep, get pet, run around a little, and repeat.
What is an academic accomplishment that you are proud of?
I am proud to lead a grant team in my lab, the Laryngeal Physiology Lab. I have enjoyed getting to know the talented researchers on my team and challenging myself in a leadership role.
What sparked your interest in STEM?
I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare, which led me to choose STEM. Once I started college, I was drawn to biology and eventually chose neurobiology as the brain fascinates me.
What is your vision for life after graduation?
After graduation, I will be taking a gap year while applying to medical school. During my gap year, I plan to work as a Medical Assistant at home in Connecticut.
What advice would you give a friend considering becoming a peer leader?
I would tell a friend that it is an excellent experience—one they should definitely pursue. Being a peer leader is a great opportunity to connect with fellow STEM students while also providing them with valuable resources and support. Sharing the knowledge and comfort you have gained through your own experiences in STEM is truly a gift.
What have you learned through your experience of being a peer leader?
I have learned that the struggles STEM students face unite us. It is common to feel like you’re the only one struggling, but that’s not true. STEM is challenging for everyone, and using my experiences to help guide others has been incredibly rewarding.
Meet the rest of the WISCIENCE Peer Leaders.
Learn more about the WISCIENCE Peer Leader program.