Alexa Bertz
Biology and Entomology majors
What has been your favorite bioscience class so far, and why?
Parasitology 350 has been one of my favorite bioscience classes here at UW. The class was incredibly interesting and Dr. Bartholomay is a great professor. She made an effort to get to know every student in the large lecture and she has a great sense of humor which made class a lot of fun.
What has been one of your challenges? What tips do you have for others with the same challenge?
Trying to stay on top of everything that I’m involved in has been challenging. For others who are also very busy with classes, work, or student organizations, I highly recommend taking breaks throughout the day or planning one fun thing to look forward to each day. Taking breaks allows me to be more productive. I’m also more motivated by having something that I can look forward to when I finish my work.
Are you active in any student clubs—which ones would you recommend?
I’m currently active in the Pre-Veterinary Association (PVA), the Associated Students of Madison (ASM), and a professional sorority (Sigma Alpha). PVA and Sigma Alpha are definitely student groups for those with more specific interests. More generally speaking, I would recommend joining ASM for there’s truly something for everyone within this organization.
Have you engaged in service, study abroad, FIGs?
This will be my 7th semester with Badger Volunteers (BV) and my 3rd semester as a BV leader. Volunteering has really given me the opportunity to further develop my communication and leadership skills. I’ve also learned a lot more about the community by working with and helping individuals outside of the campus.
I also participated in a study abroad program (UW Health and Obesity in Austria) over the summer in Vienna, Austria for a week. Studying abroad, even for a short time, was an incredible experience. I learned first-hand about global public health differences outside of the classroom. I also gained better perspective on the United States’ place in the world and also got to experience an entirely new culture.
Additionally, as a freshman, I joined an entomology-focused FIG during my first semester. If I had not taken the entomology focused FIG, I never would have discovered my passion for insects and wouldn’t have decided to double major in biology and entomology.
What do you wish someone would have shared when you were a freshman?
I wish someone would have told me about the UW-Madison Book Exchange Facebook page as a freshman. I really could have saved money by utilizing this page sooner! Additionally, I wish I would have been told immediately on day one not to wear my lanyard around my neck (haha).
Do you have any other tips for fellow Biology students?
I would recommend spacing out some of the intermediate/advanced biology coursework over time instead of taking many upper level courses in one semester. I would also recommend taking classes in the summer if you can. It really allows for more class schedule flexibility during the regular school year.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
Hopefully after graduation I will be attending veterinary school!
