Gwen Avery wants to help people improve their health, but she doesn’t want to be on the front lines providing care. Medical laboratory sciences turned out to be the ideal major for her career aspirations. She is also minoring in chemistry and public health.
“In the lab, I can help patients in a more behind-the-scenes manner, yet still impact their treatment and overall experience in the healthcare system,” she explains.
At ONU, Gwen found a place that offers “amazing academics” and a feeling of home. “I couldn’t picture myself going anywhere else,” she says.
“If I wasn’t at ONU, I would not be able to be part of all the different and wonderful organizations I’m involved with while also excelling in my classes. This is such a unique experience to this university and I am so thankful for it.”
Gwen participates in Kappa Alpha Theta, Good News Bears/Orientation Leaders, Mortar Board, Student Senate and Religious Life, to name a few. Through these organizations, she’s taken on leadership roles and engaged in community service.
Her sorority is her favorite, she says. “It has fostered my leadership skills and provided me with my best friends. No matter what my day has been like, I know any event with Theta will make it so much better.”
Every August, Gwen plays a major role in the success of Welcome Weekend as a Good News Bear and Orientation Leader.
“This weekend is by far the best weekend on campus and it truly brings people together to make some amazing memories,” she says.
After graduation, Gwen plans to work in a hospital laboratory and eventually obtain her master’s degree and pursue a career in research.
“I really enjoy service and helping others,” she says.