Anjli Patel’s SPSU Student Profile

Major: Biology

Graduation year: 2010

SPSU Activities:

• Student Government Association
• President (08-09)
• Secretary/Treasurer (07-08)
• Gamma Phi Beta Sorority
• Panhellenic Vice President (2009)
• Membership Vice President (2008)
• Indian Cultural Exchange (06-07)
• SPSU ResLife – Resident Assistant (08-09)
• Inter Greek Council (08-09)
• Student Life Committee (07-09)
• Housing Phase III Committee (08-09)
• University Institutional Effectiveness Council (2009)

What advice would you give to new students?

I started my freshman year wanting to graduate school as soon as possible.  I was really shy and had no school spirit at all.  Some advice I would give to new students is to get involved as soon as you can!  Don't be afraid to leave your rooms and take advantage of all of the cool activities our school has to offer.  Choose a few organizations that catch your eye and participate!  Taking part in organizations has truly made my experience at SPSU much more memorable and has molded me into a better person.  All you need to do is set your priorities, manage your time WISELY, and have FUN!

What has been your best SPSU extra-curricular activity?

My best SPSU extra-curricular activity has to be Student Government Association.  My experience as a member has given me confidence in myself and taught me great leadership skills that have helped me through many obstacles I encountered at SPSU.  It increased my level of care for our school and encouraged me to become more involved with SPSU in other areas.  One of our projects this year is to start a shuttle bus system for students who do not have any means of transportation.  It is a great feeling knowing that we have started something good for our school and students.

What has been your coolest SPSU experience so far?

My coolest SPSU experience so far has to be serving in the Housing Phase III Committee, where I work with faculty and other students to plan new housing developments on our growing campus.   It is so cool to see all the changes our school has gone through and will go through since I started as a freshman.  My bonds to SPSU have become stronger as I have the opportunity to take part in these changes rather than just seeing them.

Why did you choose SPSU?

The main reason I chose SPSU was because of the size.  I knew the classes would be the right size where I could get enough attention from my professors.  I knew it would be safer.  I knew I would be able to walk everywhere without getting tired, and I knew it would be easy to make friends!  Before I started at SPSU, my plans were to transfer out after I had my core curriculum done, but once I got here my plans changed completely.  It was so easy to fall in love with this school and the people here, I never again thought about leaving.

Why did you choose your major?

I chose Biology as my major because medicine is something I have always been interested in.   Learning how life works and how I might be able to take part pulls me into the major even more.  My dream is to work with creating medicines and cures for diseases, and  I chose this major at SPSU because I knew that our teachers’ gave us more attention and we would have more hands’ on experience in our labs. 

What has been your favorite class?

Anatomy and Physiology has to be my favorite class at this school so far.  Learning about our body and how it works is so interesting.  It already makes my mind think of what we can do to fix illnesses.  The labs are even more fun.  Have you ever wondered what muscles look like in real life?  What about a brain?  Take this class and you'll find out!

Who has been your favorite professor?

Dr. Mark Sugalski is an amazing teacher!  As intimidating as he looks when you first meet him, he is an awesome professor and really easy to get along with.  He is so enthusiastic and knowledgeable about what he teaches to the point where the most boring topics are compelling.  He truly cares if his students understand and is one of the most helpful professors I have had so far.   He pushes us just enough to help us be confident and prepared for our futures.

Where is your favorite place on campus to hang out?

My favorite place to hang out on campus has to be the volleyball court hands down.  Every free minute I have you can find me playing volleyball with friends.  We are even known to play in 40 degree weather!  It keeps me active and helps clear my thoughts, and is a great way to meet new people.   Everyone is open to play with new people and just having a great time!