Sophomore and Honors College student Ciara Alderman initially chose to major in biochemistry because her career plan was to attend medical school. Though her aspirations have changed, her love her biochemistry has only grown.
“I love challenging myself and learning about the biochemical processes that affects every living organism.”
When looking for colleges, Ciara was looking for a place that was welcoming, student-centered and somewhere that she knew she could succeed.
“Allowing undergraduates to participate in research and projects the way Clemson does is unheard of. I knew that Clemson would provide me with the resources and experiences I need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.”
Now that Ciara has been on campus for a while, she has found a community in the Genetics and Biochemistry department, with both students and faculty.
“I think we have the best faculty and staff of any department!”
Aside from the departmental community, Ciara has become involved in several extracurricular activities on campus. One is working for Clemson Home as a Residential Community Mentor (RCM) helping students navigate their freshman year at Clemson.
“The most fulfilling part of my job is being a mentor to my residents. Being an RCM fills me with unexplainable joy as I help foster an inclusive community that creates an environment for students to succeed.”
Ciara is also a member of Clemson’s Xi Chapter of Alpha Omega Epsilon (A.O.E), a professional and social sorority for women in engineering and science focused on friendship, leadership and professionalism. Being a member of A.O.E has given Ciara the opportunity to connect with women in all STEM fields as well as other Genetics and Biochemistry majors.
“Through A.O.E, I have made lifelong friends, developed my professional skills and made a positive impact in my community.”
This semester Ciara joined a Creative Inquiry (CI) project focused on running standardized national STEM competitions for K-12 students.
“I am passionate about providing students with the opportunity to develop their STEM knowledge, skills and experiences before entering college, and this CI gives me the chance.”
In her free time, Ciara enjoys playing sports like volleyball, spikeball, football and pickleball with her friends. She is a huge fan of Clemson sports attends all the games she can. She also loves the outdoors, taking advantage of Clemson’s location in the upstate by hiking and kayaking on Lake Hartwell, walking at the Dikes and camping in the Blue Ridge. On days when she wants to relax, Ciara loves to read anything from short memoirs and essay collections to historical fiction and mysteries.
“A fun fact about me is that I have a black belt in Karate!”
Ciara’s aspirations grew and changed as she delved into the world of biochemistry. No longer was medical school at the forefront of her brain. After graduation, Ciara aspires to go on to Physical Therapy school and get her DPT.
“It is my dream to be able to work for a sports team as a Physical Therapist to help athletes get back on their feet and back to the sport they love.”
