You may recognize biochemistry alum Katie Cross from her involvement with Delta Gamma, the Clemson Club Swim Team, the Clemson Panhellenic New Member Mentor Program or the many labs and Creative Inquiries she dedicated herself to before graduating this May. Whether she was mentoring new students, conducting research or balancing an incredibly full schedule across campus, Katie left a lasting impression on the Clemson community through both her leadership and enthusiasm.
Katie says she truly loved and savored every moment of her undergraduate experience at Clemson. Like many students, what she treasures most is the people — peers, faculty and staff who shaped her journey.
“The best thing that I’ve learned in the past four years at Clemson is how important it is to develop strong relationships with as many people as you can. Establishing relationships with the people with whom you interact daily will be the most genuine and rewarding part of your Clemson experience and set you up for great success after graduation.”
One Clemson memory Katie says she will never forget is walking into Death Valley for the first time as a freshman.
“The sights, the sounds, the people… it was electrifying. While it sounds cliché, it was the first time I truly felt like I was a part of something bigger — the Clemson family.”
This fall, Katie will begin the next chapter of her academic journey at the University of Florida, where she will pursue a Ph.D. in plant pathology.
“As a recipient of the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Dean’s Award, I’ll spend my first semester rotating through labs and immersing myself in new and exciting areas of research!”
Katie also shared a note of gratitude for the Genetics and Biochemistry department:
“I would not have accomplished nearly as much without the support from the Genetics and Biochemistry Department. While the coursework did an excellent job preparing me for what’s ahead, the faculty, advisors and department staff — special shoutout to the AMAZING Kate Price!! — have always been incredible resources for anything I ever needed. Thank you Clemson G&B for being the best department ever!”
