Passionate Pre-Med Student Seeks Inspiration Wherever She Goes
Editor's note: Leading up to commencement in June, we'll be featuring one student with a major or minor in CAHSS each week.
"Dual-degree" doesn't quite cover undergraduate Natasha Hamilton's array of academic pursuits. This June, she'll earn her BS in molecular biology with a cognitive neuroscience concentration and minors in chemistry and math, as well as a BA in sociology with a minor in psychology. And she still finds time to pursue passions in piano, cello, and Celtic harp!
When she isn't writing and playing music, you'll find Hamilton at a local elementary school, where she works on an anti-bullying program. Or, you might find her busy at the Global Livingston Institute, where she's interned on a community-based emergency medical initiative in Uganda.
Hamilton makes an impact wherever she goes. On a recent trip abroad, she pioneered an international expansion of the Peaceful Schools Program, earning an honorary membership to the Rotary Club of Glasgow for her efforts.
Last year, the University of Glasgow published a literature review Hamilton authored. For her sociology honors thesis, Hamilton is expanding this work: "I'm using qualitative research methods to assess the efficacy of educational practices in chemistry classes at DU."
Hamilton's work is motivated by a role model close to home. "My mother was diagnosed with kidney failure when I was a child, and witnessing her medical battles opened my eyes to inequalities in healthcare." Her mother's courage, integrity, and resilience has driven Hamilton forward. "My mom was my inspiration to pursue a career as a physician, and I'll be starting medical school this fall."
Hamilton draws inspiration from on-campus role models as well. As a parting word of advice, she encourages students to talk to professors in office hours where one-on-one discussions of research and motivations can take place. "The answers to those kinds of questions will teach you more about the world you live in than any other class at the University."
