Laury Wood

...that the program really feels like a family: the leadership team, advisors, faculty, and staff share the same vision and are truly invested in student well-being and success. I also appreciate the autonomy I have to try new things, and the opportunities to learn from my colleagues and my students. The true reward, however, comes from watching students develop and apply skills to new situations, and in following their successes after graduation.

...my primary objective in BIOLOGY 172 to be to help you develop critical and analytical thinking skills to explain how bacterial, plant, and animal cells work at the cellular and molecular level. As one of the first biology courses for students majoring in the life sciences, BIOLOGY 172 covers molecular and cellular biology, development, and physiology, and it equips you with tools for lifelong learning. The course also introduces you to the process of scientific thinking and explores how science impacts our daily lives. The CSP section of BIOLOGY 172 allows us time not only to actively engage with the course material but also with each other, making the classroom an inviting, comfortable place to learn.

...that there are so many things! First, I would say to find your passion, no matter how long it takes. Never stop exploring or learning and don’t be afraid to try something new. Second, it is so important to ask for help. I advise students to visit office hours frequently and build strong relationships with instructors. Third, learn to think conceptually and rely less on memorization. Fourth, learn to manage your time wisely. That means setting aside time to enjoy and take care of yourself. Your health and well-being is key, not only to your academic success, but to your personal success. Finally, Be sure to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how large or small!

...spending time with family, immensely, including my three children and three grandchildren. I value my time with friends (though I also like my alone time). I also enjoy travel and any activity that allows me to be outside (skiing, biking, hiking, mushroom hunting, kayaking, Michigan football games), and I love cooking. It is a dream of mine to own a small catering business up north upon retirement.