Health Sciences Major Jobs and Graduate School Acceptances

A double major in chemistry and health sciences, King found her path at Gettysburg with the support of faculty and friends. She performed research on bladder cancer as part of the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute (X-SIG) in 2022 and she is currently doing independent research on gold nanoparticle exposure in aquatic wildlife alongside Chemistry Prof. Lucas Thompson. When she’s not enjoying long runs across the battlefield with her friends, King works as a peer learning associate in the Chemistry Department and student assistant in the athletics equipment room. She also previously served as president of her sorority, Gamma Phi Beta. “All of these opportunities have allowed me to grow as a leader, a critical thinker, a time-manager, and allowed me to discover what my future will look like,” King said. “The research experiences I have been a part of have pushed me to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry next year.” King will begin the next chapter in her educational journey at Northeastern University in the fall.

Schwarzer is a health sciences major with a minor in biology. Her educational journey included a transformative study abroad experience in Australia, where she learned the value of living in the moment. On campus, Schwarzer played key leadership roles, serving as vice president of Sigma Sigma Sigma, chief justice for the Panhellenic Council, and co-president of Relay for Life. She also participated in the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute (X-SIG) with Health Sciences Prof. Josef Brandauer, her advisor. “Dr. Brandauer has made the biggest impact on my experience at Gettysburg,” Schwarzer said. “Because of him, I know what I want to pursue as a career and the importance of learning, no matter what the setting is.” Schwarzer’s leadership roles and academic achievements demonstrate her dedication to her field and the ability to make a positive impact in the scientific community. Following graduation, Hanna will join the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard University as a lab associate/technician, reflecting her passion for health sciences and commitment to advancing medical research.

Anyaoku enjoyed a wealth of opportunities as a member of campus organizations like Alpha Delta Pi, the Black Student Union, and the Gettysburg African Student Association. “I was not 100 percent sure what I wanted to dedicate my life to since I had so many interests, but the way Gettysburg’s curriculum was set up allowed me to explore everything I was interested in,” said Anyaoku. A health sciences major, Anyaoku received the John and Barbara Horowitz Outstanding Undergraduate Abstract Award from the American Physiological Society for her scientific research. After graduation, she will attend Georgetown University to pursue a master’s in biotechnology.

“Being a Gettysburgian means serving my peers and mentors (coaches, professors, supervisors) to the best of my ability; to better myself and those around me; to drive success in the classroom, on the field, and in the workplace; and to take advantage of the opportunities at hand, and grasp them with 100% effort,” said Pasternak. Pasternak’s proudest moment was serving as captain of the women's lacrosse team this spring. Additionally, the health sciences major and biology minor was a student worker in athletic training and athletic communications, a member of Chi Omega, and served as a Peer Learning Associate in anatomy and physiology. After college, Pasternak will work as a physician’s assistant specializing in sports medicine or orthopedics.

 “I liked how Gettysburg had an amazing science program and building,” said Van Pelt. “I knew I would thrive in a school with a close-knit community where I could get to know my peers and professors. I’m so happy I chose Gettysburg!” Van Pelt crafted an academic career in health sciences that paved the way for acceptance into multiple dental schools. The two-time president of the Pre-Health Professions Club will attend the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and credits Gettysburg’s hands-on learning and personalized education for helping her achieve her goals. “Health sciences professors at Gettysburg want to set you up for success even before you start applying to medical school with their advising and mentorship.”

“My proudest moment from my Gettysburg College experience is making it to the Centennial Conference semifinals for volleyball my senior year. This is the furthest the program has made it in eight years. Making this was a memorable way to end my career,” said Horowitz. A health sciences major, Horowitz plans on attending physician assistant school after a gap year, during which she will work as a medical assistant for a local company. “I look forward to a lifetime of helping others and being a part of various individuals’ journeys to health,” she added.

“Being able to take constructive criticism or the hard truth and face it head-on, has allowed me to succeed,” said Kienzle, who was a member of the men’s lacrosse team. “This lesson helped shape my mentality toward addressing adversity not only on the lacrosse field, but in life in general. I know life will not always go as planned and one must be willing to accept hardships by managing adversity with a head-up and positive mentality.” Kienzle majored in health sciences and minored in chemistry, and is interested in a career in the healthcare industry after graduation.

“My most prideful Gettysburg College experience has to be my semester spent abroad in Nepal,” said Vazquez, a health sciences major and women, gender, and sexuality studies minor. “Being a first-generation college student who had never traveled internationally before, I knew that studying abroad was one of my top goals for my college career. Studying abroad brought me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. I had the opportunity to study public health and conduct my own independent study on birthing practices and maternal health, which solidified my desire to become a certified nurse-midwife.” Vazquez plans on attending the University of Pennsylvania in to earn her registered nurse licensure.

“My proudest moment from Gettysburg College was when I was offered a seat in my first and top choice Doctor of Physical Therapy graduate program,” said Yap, a health sciences major who will be attending George Washington University after graduation. “When I first arrived at Gettysburg, I knew that I wanted to work in the medical field in some capacity. It is a goal that a lot of undergraduates have coming into college, but not everyone reaches. It was the most amazing feeling to see all my hard work in the classroom and on the track, late nights in the library, and tears from organic chemistry be worth it.” Interning with Advanced Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy was also a pivotal moment for Yap. “I had always been interested in a career in rehabilitative medicine, but I was never sure which one. My internship helped me to find a future career that I am so excited about,” she said.