Scholar aims to be like pediatrician who helped her

Six questions for Cindy Nguyen, University of Colorado student and recipient of a Buffalo Bicycle Classic Scholarship.

1. What are you studying, and what drew you to this discipline?

My major is integrative physiology, and what drew me to this discipline is my passion for science and learning about the functions of the human body. Science just fascinates me, from biology to chemistry, so I am just pursuing what I love to learn the most about.

2. What do you hope to be doing in a decade?

In a decade from now, I hope that I have gotten accepted into Anschutz Medical School and am pursuing my career as a pediatrician. I want to become a pediatrician, because I had just a great pediatrician when I was growing up. My pediatrician was one of my role models that I looked up to, and my pediatrician was there for me through the ups and downs of my health and social life. I want to become a pediatrician to be able to diagnose children efficiently and be there to support them to grow up into healthy adults both physically and mentally. Further, I hope to also travel the world.

3. If you could tell a prospective college student only one thing about higher education, what would it be?

Higher education opens up many opportunities in life, so pursue higher education, and you will be rewarded greatly.

4. What have you found most memorable or meaningful about your time at CU?

My most memorable moment at CU was probably during my first weekend at CU. The staff made all the freshmen convene at Folsom Stadium for the chancellor’s speech, and afterwards we walked through the arch of balloons symbolizing that the incoming freshmen are Buffs forever. I was awestruck, because this was it, the transition from my life as a high-school student to a college student. Furthermore, the crowds of people were there to cheer us on, and it was just an amazing experience.

5. What activities or extracurricular activities do you participate in on campus?

Well, I participated in CU Gold, First Generation Program, Travel Club, Foundation of Medical Care for Children and the Fashion Show Club.

6. What does it mean to you that you were selected as a Buffalo Bicycle Classic scholar?

I was ecstatic as being selected as a Buffalo Bicycle Classic scholar, because college is expensive and every opportunity to help pay for college helps. I am thankful for being chosen.

The Elevations Buffalo Bicycle Classic, which raises funds for scholarships, includes ride distances of 14, 35, 50, 70 and 100 miles. To learn more about the Sept. 11 event or to register, click here.

July 2011