Mahi Patel, a Class of 2023 graduate of Mercer University‘s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, earned a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan on working as a medical assistant during my gap year before medical school. My goal is to be a Double Bear and attend Mercer University School of Medicine in the future.
What was your favorite class and why?
I think my favorites class was neurobiology with Dr. Katharine Northcutt. Although the material was tough, it kept me engaged. I never felt like studying for her exams was a chore. She talked about different research studies in neuroscience done by people who are in marginalized groups. For once, it felt like there were people who looked like me making a strong impact in academia.
How do you plan on changing the world?
As a rural Georgia native, I hope to go back and practice as a doctor in the many medically underserved communities. My goal is to provide accessible health care to disadvantaged rural communities in Georgia. I also want to educate the younger generations about careers in health care. For many students, college is something that is seen as unattainable — whether it is due to perceived costs or the lack of knowledge of the careers that may be meant for them. I hope that one day, more rural Georgia natives will return to practice in their hometowns.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
The advice I have for incoming students is that you get as much as you put in. I highly encourage incoming students to be active in and around campus. Go beyond just showing up to class. Show up at meetings or events for organizations you are interested in. Ask your professors for help. Explore downtown Macon. Do not be afraid to start your own club. Get out of your comfort zone. If you put in the work, you will be rewarded 10 times over. The connections that you make during this time will be the ones that you will keep for the rest of your life.
What makes Mercer special to you?
The community at Mercer is truly one of a kind. Everyone is looking out for one another. Whether you need more shadowing opportunities or extra help in biochemistry, the people around you will always be willing to provide advice, contacts or just lend an ear. Every professor goes above and beyond, making themselves available and actually learning your name within the first week of class. The connections I have made at Mercer will continue to aid me for the rest of my life.
Would you like to be featured in The Den’s Graduate Spotlight? All you have to do is fill out this form and submit your photo. Your response also may be used on social media.
