Having always valued being part of something bigger than herself, incoming genetics freshman Niyah Haywood is ready to embrace life as a Clemson Tiger this fall.
Niyah is from Columbia, South Carolina, and graduated from Spring Valley High School, where she ranked eighth in a class of 492 while staying actively involved in cheerleading, track and field, Student Council, HOSA, and the Science, Spanish, Social Studies, and National Honor Societies.
“I was founder and president of my school’s Student Athlete Leadership Team (SALT for short). My favorite achievement sports-wise was becoming president of the South Carolina High School League’s Student Athlete Advisory Council, where I was able to showcase my leadership and influence high school athletics across the state… I’ve also completed independent research projects and presented at the Science and Engineering Fair and South Carolina Junior Academy of Science.”
For Niyah, Clemson offered the perfect balance of strong academics, school spirit, leadership opportunities and a campus culture that felt supportive and connected. But the biggest draw was the chance to study genetics — a field that truly interests her — at the only university in South Carolina with a genetics major.
“Clemson felt like the best place for me to grow personally, academically, and professionally. The plethora of research opportunities and opportunities given through the HRC definitely put a check in the pro column as well. Overall, Clemson felt like a place where I could challenge myself while still building community and preparing for a future in research and healthcare.”
Niyah’s interest in genetics comes from the curiosity to understand not just what happens, but why it happens, drawn to how small changes at the molecular level can create larger effects in health and biology.
“I enjoy connecting research with real-world impact. Genetics combines my interests in discovery, problem-solving and improving people’s lives through science and medicine.”
After arriving on campus this fall, Niyah is looking forward to game days, joining a few science-related clubs, being accepted into and graduating from the Honors College, lake days with friends, gaining a sense of independence and becoming a Clemson Tiger.
“Being a Clemson Tiger means being part of something bigger than myself. It’s a community that values excellence, tradition, leadership and connection. To me, it represents the opportunity to challenge myself academically, grow as a person and pursue my goals while creating lifelong memories and relationships. It means showing school spirit, embracing new experiences and leaving Clemson having made a meaningful impact on the people and places around me.”
SARAH SPRATLIN BULLOCK
Growing up in a devoted University of Georgia family, incoming genetics freshman Sarah Spratlin Bullock — “SS” to her friends — spent countless weekends cheering on the Bulldogs, following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, both former Georgia baseball players. She could see her higher education path pretty clearly, until two years ago when her brother, Truman, chose Clemson.
“It flipped my world upside down. I wanted somewhere that everyone was obsessed with. I wanted somewhere that people got involved and stayed involved, somewhere that people loved for their whole lives. Because of my brother and the Clemson friends we made along the way, I knew Clemson was my place too.”
From Greenville, SC, Sarah attended Christ Church Episcopal School from kindergarden to her senior year where she was involved in all things performing: cheer, theatre and choir.
“I cheered in the London New Year’s Day Parade as a UCA All American this year, and it was one of the most special experiences of my life! I acted in two shows a year at school and am an assistant director for the middle school every year.”
In addition, Sarah serves on the Youth Leadership Team at Buncombe Street Methodist Church, a camp counselor for Vacation Bible School, was a school ambassador and a member of the prom committee.
Sarah has always had a particular interest in biology, her physician dad being her biggest inspiration to go into the science field, planning to go into premed just like him. As she moved up in school and started taking more challenging biology courses, she became interested in genetics.
“I’ve developed a particular interest in genetics thanks to my AP Bio teacher, Mrs. Unger, who arranged us a trip to the Greenwood Genetics Center. I think people are wonderful, and I would love nothing more than to learn more about how we are all so uniquely us.”
So excited to get to campus in the Fall, Sarah plans on being very active in clubs and organizations across campus, taking in the full Clemson experience. She plans to join ‘everything [she] can,’ such as Greek life, the sailing and line-dancing clubs, choir, FCA and Central Spirit.
“I am excited for the people and experiences. College is a time to grow as a person, shape others, and be shaped in return, so I am excited for those new friends, swims in the lake, study dates over coffee, worship nights, dances, and beyond. I am excited to see who I will become and who I will meet along the way!”
Clemson University has held a special significance in Madeleine Greer’s family ever since her grandfather graduated in ’61. This connection was a key consideration for her as she selected her university.
“I chose Clemson because it’s always been an important place to me and my family. My family has been going to Clemson games since before I was born and with it being close to where I grew up, we always visited and grew a connection with the university.”
Madeleine is from Greenville, SC and went to Greenville High School, where she skipped a grade between her sophomore and senior year. In high school, Madeleine enjoyed being a part of the school’s tennis team, eventually becoming team captain.
As a genetics major, Madeleine is eager to explore how our genes are inherited and how they shape our identities.
“I’ve always been curious about how traits are passed down and why people are the way they are. I think it’s really interesting how our genes shape so much about us and I’m excited to learn more about it.”
Madeleine has plans when she gets on campus not just academically but with extracurricular activities, planning to go through sorority recruitment and joining the club tennis team.
Even as an incoming freshman, she has goals for her future after graduating with her genetics degree.
“With my genetics degree I plan on going to medical school and becoming a doctor specializing in either IVF or gynecology.”
Madeleine, we can’t wait to see you on campus!
Alexandra Hart
When incoming biochemistry freshman Alexandra Hart attended her mother’s doctoral hooding ceremony at Clemson University in 2021, she knew it was an experience she would never forget.
“Seeing Clemson for the first time is something I would love to relive. Honestly, I don’t think there is a college that could provide me with an experience like Clemson has. You can really tell that Clemson cares about their students, especially their incoming students.”
Coming from Charleston, SC, Alexandra went to Berkeley Middle College High School a top magnet school in partnership with Trident Technical College. At Berkeley students can complete all requirements of a high school graduate while pursuing an associate degree and other certifications provided by the technical college.
Alexandra was not only busy with her academics in high school, but she was also involved in many extracurricular activities within the school and the community.
“At Berkeley I earned my high school diploma and associate’s degree in science. I participated in varsity cheerleading, varsity tennis and multiple volunteer organizations, including a few local, youth-based non-profits.”
Alexandra is coming in as a biochemistry major with a genetics minor with the hopes of completing the bachelors-to-master’s program. She chose biochemistry after taking a Principles of Biomedical Sciences course her first year of high school.
“It made me realize how much I enjoyed working in a lab setting and helped my constant curiosity about life!”
When Alexandra arrives on campus she plans on getting involved by participating in Club Cheerleading, the Black Student Union and the Biochemistry & Genetics Club.
“I am beyond excited to enter Clemson University this August, and I keep a countdown for the move-in day on all my devices. I still can’t believe I am going to Clemson! Go Tigers!!”
Meilani Wijetunga
Clemson was the perfect choice for incoming biochemistry freshman Meilani Wijetunga, who wanted to study in-state and fell in love with the campus like many before her. She also saw inspiring opportunities here for her as a woman in science and couldn’t wait to receive her acceptance letter.
“I heard how great Clemson’s STEM program and internship opportunities were and couldn’t wait to explore them! I applied for early action in October, so when I got my acceptance in December. I was so excited to accept!”
In high school, Meilani was a varsity athlete, playing varsity soccer and volleyball. When Meilani arrives on campus, she cannot wait to get settled and get into her classes as well as get involved in clubs and organizations such as the College of Science Mentoring and Inclusion Collaborative (COSMIC), which is an award-winning peer mentoring program intended to support incoming students with their transition to Clemson by matching them with upperclassmen mentors who come from similar backgrounds and share similar interests.
Meilani is a student who is coming in with a plan, knowing where she wants her future career to go, and Clemson’s biochemistry program is going to help her reach her goal of becoming a pathologist or pharmaceutical researcher one day.
“I wanted to study biochemistry because I’ve always been interested in working in labs and helping people from ‘behind-the-scenes.’ The numerous opportunities and beautiful area made me eager to call Clemson home!”
Kayla Poulias
Kayla Poulias, high-jump track and field star, dancer and survivor is coming into Clemson this fall as a freshman genetics major with big dreams. Clemson is not new to Kayla or the Poulias family as her brother graduated from Clemson this spring as well.
“I chose Clemson because my brother went there and I also fell in love with tiger town whenever I visited!”
Kayla is originally from Ontario, Canada but moved to South Carolina when she was ten and attended Fort Mill High School where she participated in varsity track and field and the HOSA – Future Health Professionals Club.
Kayla is excited to see all the clubs Clemson has to offer and to meet new people when she arrives on campus in August. In her free time Kayla enjoys reading, watching movies and spending time with friends and family.
“One fun fact is I did aerial silks for 5 years but all forms of dance even pointe for 15 years!”
Kayla’s choice to study genetics comes both from a passion for it and from a personal, medical experience when she was in middle school.
“I choose genetics because I’ve always had a passion for genetic research since 8th grade when I actually had a very rare noncancerous tumor in my leg. I’m hoping to study the genetic sequences from tumors to help find more targeted therapy techniques for patients.”
This summer we shared a number of incoming freshmen’s stories with you. In this series we circle back to those students and see how they are doing now.
Maddie Smith
Since being on campus, Maddie Smith, genetics major from Slidell, LS, has thrived both academically and personally.
“I am in love with campus and all of my coursework. My professors have been nothing short of amazing and so willing to help whenever I need!”
She has become involved in organizations such as Alpha Omega Epsilon, a sorority that promotes women in STEM, a bible study through Catholic Tigers, the Genetics and Biochemistry Club and the Swift Society. Maddie is also part of a Creative Inquiry with Dr. Todd Lyda.
“My favorite class so far would have to be my CI research project with Dr. Lyda! We work to isolate Euglena cells in a gel strip using gel electrophoresis to make a reuseable battery. My lab mates and I are super close, and we love getting together outside of the lab for lunches at Schlitter!”
Maddie enjoys all parts of what Clemson has to offer: football games, snow days on Bowman Field, studying in the Harry Potter room on the second floor of the library and consistently making new friends.
“My favorite Clemson moment would have to be the snow day! Being from south Louisiana, I have only ever seen snow once at home! It was so magical and the most amazing welcome back from the holiday break!”
The past academic year at Clemson and in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry has solidified Maddie’s future career goals.
“Since being in the Genetics and Biochemistry department, I have gained confidence in my academic abilities, and I have no doubt I will be prepared to take the MCAT and hopefully be accepted into medical school!”
When asked what her advice for incoming freshman would be, Maddie said to not give up when things get hard.
“It is not easy being in all science classes but finding a group of friends that know what you are going through and will help you succeed will make the world of difference! Shout out to my G&B girls, Kylie Wilson and Muara Korte, for being the best friends and study partners ever!”
Kylie Wilson
When we first met freshman genetics student Kylie Wilson back in the Summer of 2024, she was passionate about Clemson and studying genetics – neither has changed.
“The more time I spend here, the more I keep falling in love with Clemson. I feel like it is the perfect place for me to continue to grow.”
Kylie says her time at Clemson has not only met, but exceeded her expectations in many ways, forging life-long friendships and growing in her independence and self-confidence.
“Everyone who I have met here is so nice and eager to make friends. I feel like I can genuinely talk to and form friendships with everyone, especially people in my classes.”
Speaking of classes, Kylie’s favorite class has been her Biology 1100 lecture.
“I love learning about all the internal processes of the cell, and I am so excited to delve into those processes and the blueprint behind them in my future classes.”
Kylie has become actively involved on campus during her first year at Clemson, being on multiple committees within her sorority, Pi Beta Phi.
“Being in that sisterhood has been tremendously important to my college experience thus far.”
Beyond that, Kylie is involved in the Genetics and Biochemistry Club and the CHANGE Student Ethics Organization. This semester, she also joined Dr. Todd Lyda’s Creative Inquiry Lab, in which they are aiming to create a photosynthetic battery using chlorophyll harvested from Euglena cells.
Kylie has many Clemson moments that she holds close, but her favorite was her first game day. She loved waking up in her dorm and realizing that she was right in the middle of the action!
“I spent the day with friends who I had just met that week, and that day I met so many people who I have grown close with. I sat on The Hill, and the night game atmosphere was unmatched. I quickly learned all the chants and realized why people love the sports here so much – our school spirit is amazing.”
When we originally spoke with Kylie, she said that she wanted to be a genetic counselor. That plan has been solidified since her time in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry.
“In my Careers in Genetics and Biochemistry course, we had a genetic counselor come speak, and that is when I knew that was the career path that I wanted to pursue 100%.”
Kylie’s main piece of advice for incoming freshman is to not be intimidated.
“College is very intimidating at first. It is super exciting, but the process of meeting new people and building those friendships while getting used to college coursework, can be daunting at times. My biggest advice is to challenge that intimidation head on. Work hard for those friendships and work hard to maintain your academics.”
Kylie also notes that you must not get complacent but continue to work hard to excel in every avenue you choose to be involved in.
“All I have to add is that I just absolutely love it here and anyone who is thinking of coming here absolutely should! There are so many opportunities, and it will change your life!”
Freshman biochemistry major Caroline Graham loves hanging out with friends, getting ice cream, playing soccer and pickleball and being in the water. So, with Clemson as her new home, you may find her frequenting 55 Exchange, the intermural fields, the rowing docks or the Fike pool.
Choosing Clemson for its beautiful campus and academic prestige, Caroline couldn’t wait to receive her acceptance letter and become a tiger, even though she had to wait until her varsity soccer game was over on acceptance day to see it!
Originally from Charleston, SC, Caroline attended Wando High School where she was involved in many extracurricular activities.
The decision to be a biochemistry major stems from Caroline’s passion to be a Pediatric Physician’s Assistant (PA).
“I think that the biochemistry major will provide me with a well-rounded education as well as a variety of job options if I decide to go another route that a PA.”
Caroline has joined Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women, whose mission is to promote friendship, develop women of integrity, cultivate leadership potential and enrich lives through community service. In addition, she intends to join the Paws for PA Club, a group of Clemson Tigers seeking to be the next generation of world-changing physician assistants as well as Friday morning Swim Club!
“I love Clemson so far! Everyone here is so kind and passionate about what they do/want to accomplish. My favorite thing I have done at Clemson is probably going to the Rowing docks and swimming with friends.”
Nyah Franqui ’28
Freshman genetics major and premed student with a minor in Life Sciences Nyah Franqui has had an interest in genetics since her first biology class.
“Since my first biology class, I have gained an interest in genetics and always wanted to learn more. I also believe that genetics is the future of medicine in addressing diseases and providing specific prescriptions to help with an individual’s needs.”
Originally from Hendersonville, NC, Nyah graduated from the Nesbit Discovery Academy. In addition, she received her associate’s in science from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College during her junior year through dual enrollment.
A fun fact about Nyah is that for eleven years, she has practiced Tae Kwon Do and is third-degree black belt! On campus, Nyah plans to become involved in the American Medical Student Association, RAMS, CURE and the EMT club. After graduation she intends to enter the medical field.
“I plan on using my degree throughout my medical journey and practice. I am planning on becoming a Diagnostic Radiologist, but I am also thinking about regenerative medicine.”
Nyah was so excited about receiving her acceptance on the day before her 18th birthday.
“I had my Clemson sweatshirt on as I opened up my email. When I saw I was accepted, my family and I were ecstatic, we celebrated by getting ice cream. Best birthday ever. I’m “All In” on making Clemson my home away from home.”
Griffin Sorensen ’28
Griffin Sorensen, incoming freshman for the fall, has know for a long time that she wanted to major in genetics, and she cannot wait to begin working towards her degree!
Originally from Columbia, SC, Griffin attended the Ben Lippen School, a Christian based school that uses Bible-bases curriculum that seeks to equip students for the future by receiving personalized guidance on exploring college, careers and other post-graduation goals. In high school, Griffin’s participated in the sailing club. She has other hobbies as well.
“I love to explore, run, and try new things. A fun fact about me is that I can ride a unicycle.”
Griffin loved the feel of Clemson’s campus and all the opportunities that the university offers. When she got her acceptance letter, she was so excited, she couldn’t wait to get to campus and begin her degree in genetics.
“I’ve always loved research sciences, but genetics has always been the one that stuck out to me because it impacts many areas of life that one might not think it would be present in.”
When Griffin arrives on campus, she plans to join the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Genetics and Biochemistry Club and other clubs that help her stay active. In the future, she plans to go to Physician’s Assistant School and get her PA degree so that she can work in a genetic clinic helping people who have genetic disorders.
“I cannot wait to attend Clemson! I get more and more excited by the day. Go Tigers!!”
Kylie Wilson ’28
Coming from Lexington, SC and majoring in genetics, incoming freshman Kylie Wilson is ready to make Clemson her new home! She is the first in her family to attend Clemson University.
When Kylie toured Clemson for the first time, it felt like home to her. She admired the beaty of the campus and the college-town feel. It was during her junior year AP Biology course when she decided she wanted to study genetics in college.
“I loved every second of that class and found everything in it super interesting, especially the heredity unit. When I saw Clemson had a genetics program, I was really excited. It really feels like the perfect place for me to pursue my passions in the field of genetics.”
At River Bluff High School in Lexington, Kylie played school and travel volleyball, was in the BETA Club, National Honor Society and Women’s Empowerment Club. In her free time Kylie likes to work out, spend time with friends and family, attend sports games, travel, try new foods and shop.
On decision day, Kylie was nervous; she had already decided she wanted to attend Clemson and participate in the genetics program. She was hoping all the hard work she put into high school had paid off. It did.
“I had my family gathered around my computer at 6:00pm sharp and when I saw that I got accepted I was so so excited.”
When Kylie arrives on campus she plans to get involved in Greek Life, the Genetics and Biochemistry Club, and intramural volleyball. With her genetics degree, Kylie notes that there are many career options, but she is interested in genetic counseling and forensic DNA analysis.
“I feel really prepared for this next chapter in my life and I’m so ready to make new friends and study the things I am passionate about.”
Maddie Smith ’28
As an incoming freshman for the fall semester, Maddie will be majoring in genetics and minoring in psychology, also hoping to complete the BS to MS 5-year program that we offer.
“I am from Slidell, LS where I live with my parents, two sisters and mini poodle and where I recently graduated in May from Slidell High School.”
Maddie was involved in several extracurriculars in high school including the school’s swim and tennis teams, student advisory council, BETA Club, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), Future Farmers of America (FFA) and HOSA-Future Health Professionals.
In her free time, she enjoys being a summer swim coach at the local pool, spending time with friends, travelling and going to concerts. She has most recently seen Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo and Morgan Wallen.
“Fun fact – I have been to 38 of the 50 states and three countries outside of the US: Mexico, Canada, and Italy!”
Maddie knew Clemson would be her college home after her first visit here, seeing the way the faculty truly care about their students and love the university. Maddie notes that getting her acceptance letter from Clemson was close to one of her best days. She felt honored to be given the opportunity to join the tiger family and the genetics and biochemistry department.
“The genetics program is one of the best in the country, and I have no doubt that my Clemson degree will prepare me for my future in medicine! There really is something special in the hills!”
With her genetics degree, Maddie aspires to attend medical school to become a practicing pediatric ophthalmologist.
Maddie recently joined The College of Science Mentoring and Inclusion Collaborative (COSMIC) and a Creative Inquiry research project with Dr. Todd Lyda for the fall semester. Additionally, she hopes to join other campus organizations that apply to her major and interests.
“There are no words to describe how excited I am! I have a countdown on my phone to move in day!”
Sacha Estel ’28
Sacha is an incoming freshman this fall from Summerville, SC and will be majoring in genetics. She is the first person in her family to attend Clemson and was thrilled to receive her acceptance letter earlier this year.
“Getting my acceptance letter from Clemson was an incredible experience. I held my breath opening it and felt a sigh of relief seeing that I was accepted into a school with so much potential waiting for me!”
In high school, Sacha participated in orchestra, where she played the cello. She also completed the Early College program and received an associate’s degree in science in addition to her high school diploma.
“I was involved in Project Lead The Way’s Biomedical Sciences program, where developed my passion for working in healthcare.”
When Sacha arrives on campus, she plans to join the Genetics and Biochemistry Club and study abroad one semester. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school to become a genetic counselor. In her free time, Sacha likes to spend time at the gym, play with her dogs, and enjoy the outdoors.
“I cannot wait to grow at Clemson and meet so many new people! Go tigers and class of ‘28!”
