Senior Spotlight: Phoebe Ann

Caltech's class of 2015 is group of smart, creative, and curious individuals. They are analytical thinkers, performers, researchers, engineers, athletes, and leaders who are ready to apply the lessons they have learned from Caltech's rigorous academic environment and the unique experiences they had as part of this close-knit community to pursue future challenges. 

We talked to two of these graduates, Phoebe Ann and Justin Koch, about their years at Caltech and what will come next.

Other graduates share their stories in videos posted on Caltech's Facebook page.

Watch as they and their peers are honored at Caltech's 121st commencement on June 12 at 10 a.m. If you can't be in Pasadena, the ceremony will be live-streamed at http://www.ustream.tv/caltech. You may also follow the action and share your favorite commencement moments on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram by using #Caltech2015 in your tweets and postings.

Phoebe Ann

Major: Biology and English
House: Lloyd
Hometown: Irvine, California

Why did you originally decide to come to Caltech?

I was attracted by the small class size, and I've found to this day that it is one of Caltech's strongest advantages. Caltech is also extremely supportive of a student's individual endeavors, as demonstrated by the numerous awards and programs that promote independent research, volunteer work, or extracurricular interest projects. The most significant example of this is the Caltech Y, through which I was able to learn how to implement a personal idea or passion into a tangible program that my fellow students and I can all enjoy.

Were you involved in extracurricular activities at Caltech?

My most significant extracurricular activities were implemented through the Caltech Y. My proudest accomplishments were organizing alternative spring break trips to New York for Hurricane Sandy relief and to Costa Rica for community construction. Prior to Caltech, I had never traveled independently, let alone led a group of students to a foreign country. These activities were absolutely crucial to developing myself into an effective community member and future physician.

What were your most memorable experiences?

Aside from my Caltech Y activities, my most memorable experiences were interactions with my fellow Lloydies during freshman year. It was an exciting time of realizing my similarities and differences with others, as well as my ability to function without sleep.

What did you not know about Caltech that you learned after being here?

I did not know how hard Caltech pushed its students. I struggled tremendously upon arriving at Caltech because I was intimidated by all the students who seemed "naturally" intelligent. But Caltech forced me to just shut up and get to work. And when all was said and done, I was able to accomplish so much more than I had ever imagined.

What will you be doing after Caltech?

I will be studying medicine at Feinberg Medical School at Northwestern University in Chicago. After, I would like to be a surgeon or a pediatrician, depending on how well I can maintain a work-life balance.

Any words of advice to incoming students?

Join the Caltech Y! It is critical not only to find a work-life balance outside of the house system, but also to ground your scientific endeavors in a broader purpose: to serve and better your local, national, and international community.