2018-2019 Avatar: Georgia Hoffman

My name is Georgia Hoffman, I’m a 17 year old from eastern Kentucky. My father is a Methodist pastor, so my family has been appointed to locations across Kentucky including Upton, Ludlow, Portland, and most recently, Hindman. My house is about 4 hours from Bowling Green, so as you can imagine, moving to Gatton was a tough decision. When they learn this, most people ask why I chose to apply to Gatton. Though I love and miss my hometown and family, attending the Gatton Academy has been the best decision I have ever made. It has opened doors for me that I never even knew existed.

After graduating from high school I plan on majoring in Biology and continuing my education through medical school, in hopes of being a surgeon one day. In my first semester, I participated in the Genome Program and conducted research about bacteriophages, viruses that attack bacteria.  I continued my research with a Bioinformatics class in the spring where I worked on sequencing the DNA of several phages.  I have always known that I wanted to be a doctor, but my courses and research at Gatton have affirmed my love for biology and cemented my future goals.

Over the past year, I have participated in several clubs and programs. My favorite program was Future Healthcare Professionals, where students interested in medicine are able to explore, learn about, and practice medical techniques. Our group visited the Greenville Medical Center, practiced suturing, and became CPR certified. I was also a member of the Gatton Academy Medical Association, in this club I was able to have lunch and talk with several medical professionals throughout the year. I am also a member of Gatton’s Student Y and I volunteer at the Humane Society.

When I am not studying for class or participating in Gatton activities, I attend countless WKU events that are offered throughout the year. I enjoy playing volleyball, going to yoga at Preston, watching Netflix with my friends, and attending WKU baseball games.

During the past year, I have grown to love the strange and incredible life I live at WKU. The Gatton Academy has broadened my horizons and provided me with endless opportunities. I cannot wait to see what this year has in store for me!

 

Georgia