Minal B. Patel
Majors: Biology and Neuroscience (double major)
Minors: Spanish and Chemistry
Year: Senior
Hometown: Mitchell, Indiana
School: IU Department of Biology, The College of Arts & Sciences
IU Student Involvement
Spring 2017 CIEE IU Office of Overseas Study in Seville, Spain; 2017-2018 Co-President of IU Indian Student Association; Member of IU Jhanak (a Bollywood fusion dance team); Student Research Assistant under Dr. Heather Bradshaw at IU Bradshaw Lab of Lipid Neuroscience; Tutor at Fairview Elementary through Banneker Buddies; Member of IU Folding Club
Awards/Achievements
2017 IU Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) Society Recipients; Spring 2017 IU OVPDEI Overseas Study and Scholarship Recipient; IU College of Arts and Sciences Executive Dean’s List (2014-2017)
Why IU
“I chose IU because of what the University could offer me both professionally and socially. IU has a strong academic background with wonderful faculty members and staff. In addition, all of the courses I have taken have helped me increase my science background and to grow as a student and a future scientist. Additionally, Indiana University Bloomington diverse population gives students a chance to branch out and take part in extracurricular activities that they are most passionate about. By attending IU, I was given the opportunity to challenge myself, to be involved within my local community, and to create a place where I could fully embrace my identity and my purpose.”
Advice to Current IU 21st Century Scholars
“For me, I believe it’s all about the attitude, hard work, and perseverance. Even when classes are difficult and when there are twenty different things that have to be done, you have to keep a positive, open-minded attitude and to push forward until you have reached your destination – a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University Bloomington."
Future Plans after IU
"I am currently in the process of applying to medical school, so fingers crossed!”