Firsthand Perspectives: Olivia Shain on College Research, Interviewed by Abbygail Milburn

Highlighting the power of alumni connections to inspire future scientists, Atherton High School recently welcomed back Olivia Shain, a senior at Bellarmine University currently engaged in academic research relevant to their curriculum. She spoke to Mrs. Amanda Green’s 3rd-year biomedical sciences students.

In an insightful interview conducted by fellow Atherton student, Abbygail Milburn, Olivia shared her experiences in college and her research endeavors with the school's biomedical science students.

Why did you choose the Health Science Academy at Atherton?

Olivia: “I just found Health Science Academy, and I knew I wanted to be in healthcare. I wasn’t sure what field. So, that helped me figure out where exactly I wanted to go.”

How did you first become interested in healthcare?

Olivia: “Probably at a young age, I always wanted to be a doctor, and I wasn’t committed to the schooling or the patient care of it.”

Tell us about the Healthcare related projects you have participated in. What has been your role?

Olivia: “The healthcare related projects I’ve been involved in are Norton ethics committee and internships, and learning how the hospital system works. How the lab works is essential to the healthcare system, and my role has just been kind of carrying that on and teaching other people how that works.”

What are your future plans in the healthcare field?

Olivia: “I plan to finish my MLS degree and work as a medical lab scientist and then potentially go back to school for either a master’s or a PhD in some type of research field.”

What inspired or encouraged you to come back to speak here today?

Olivia: “I love Mrs. Green. She’s always so sweet, and I remember being in the seats and I always enjoyed guest speakers. I always enjoyed hearing what other people had to do, and that inspired me to keep going with what I wanted to do.”

-Abbygail Milburn