prospective honors students

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Josh Downey, Junior
 

MAJOR: Biology (Pre-Medicine Concentration)

MINORS: Chemistry, Civic Leadership, Language Studies - Spanish

HOMETOWN: Valparaiso, IN

EMAIL: jdowney1@sycamores.indstate.edu

 

What are your career goals, and why?

I hope to one day open a private or group practice specialized in neurology. Medicine is a field that has always interested me and the human brain fascinates me in respect to the fact that it is so vital to our functioning, yet we know so little about it. I hope to one day expand on our collective knowledge of and treat those suffering from afflictions dealing with the brain.

What hobbies or interests do you have?

The two other organizations on campus in which I am currently heavily involved in are the βββ Biological Honors Society and the Pre-Medical Association (of which I am the treasurer). I plan to stay involved with Residential Life activities even though I will no longer be employed by their office. In the community, I volunteer some of my time to serve meals at the Lighthouse Mission.

What other leadership roles do you have and/or what else are you involved with on campus or in the local community?

I enjoy running, biking, and playing other sports. I also love to read or watch my shows (Dexter, Mad Men, and How I Met Your Mother), and I enjoy long walks on the beach with that special someone.

What was your favorite Honors class so far, and why?

History 336 – 1960’s Counterculture and Protest. I took this class because it is an elective for my civic leadership minor. Since high school, I have had a fascination of the time period showcased by this class, I was excited to be able to take a class so in line with my interests and have it count towards my minor.

What do you like most about being an Honors student?

I enjoy the varied curriculum that is offered to Honors students. The most intriguing courses that I have taken thus far are because I am involved in the Honors Program.

What advice do you have for first-year Honors students about easing the transition from home to ISU?

Get involved around campus! There are numerous clubs and organizations at ISU which are looking for members excited to participate. In addition to these official organizations, the residence halls offer extensive programming each month and there are events hosted around campus all the time (most of which are completely free). Getting involved is an easy way to meet others with similar interests and to get a much needed sense of belonging which will make the transition to college much easier.

What advice do you have for first-year Honors students about time management?

Write everything down. Keeping either a paper or electronic agenda is the easiest way to stay on top of your assignments and your schedule so you don’t begin to fall behind.

What advice do you have for first-year Honors students about dealing with stress?

Stress is something that affects EVERYONE: those around you are dealing with stress also, so there is no need to feel ashamed to talk to others about what you are going through. It is important that you take time for yourself, not only will you feel better, it will make you more efficient with the work that you do.

What other general advice do you have for first-year Honors students?

Stay positive and have fun. College is a lot of work, especially for Honors students who take on a more rigorous course load. It is also a great time to take advantage of new-found freedoms and enjoy living in a new environment, surrounded by new people.