STEM Coursework

Fundamental principles of chemistry, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, and electrochemistry. Lab components emphasized hands-on experimentation, data analysis, and safety techniques. 

Study of carbon-based molecules, including structure, nomenclature, reaction mechanisms, synthesis, and spectroscopy. Laboratory sessions provided experience in techniques such as distillation, extraction, chromatography, and synthesis. 

Molecular-level study of biological processes, including enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, bioenergetics, and molecular interactions. Applied to health, disease, and cellular function. 

Introduction to classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, waves, and optics, with applications to biological systems. Laboratory sessions developed quantitative reasoning and experimental design skills. 

These courses were the foundational first-year classes required by PLC. The first course introduced fundamental principles of leadership and ethics and emphasized the application of the principles for self-development and organizational effectiveness. The second course explored challenges to leadership at the community level such as drug abuse, poverty, decline of infrastructure, care of the aged, etc. Additionally, this course gave particular attention to the development of effective leadership responses to community difficulties at university, city, state, and national levels.

Survey of psychological concepts including cognition, behavior, emotion, development, and mental health. Emphasized critical thinking, research methodology, and applications in health and society. 

Comprehensive study of fundamental biological principles, including cell structure and function, molecular biology, genetics, and evolution. Introduced experimental design and scientific reasoning in biological contexts. 

Focusing on organismal biology, plant and animal physiology, ecology, and biodiversity. Explored biological systems from the cellular to ecosystem level, with emphasis on form, function, and adaptation.

=Exploration of Mendelian and molecular genetics, gene expression, inheritance patterns, and genetic technologies. Emphasis on problem-solving and real-world applications in medical and population genetics. 

Research-based course centered on isolating, characterizing, and annotating bacteriophage genomes. Emphasized wet-lab techniques, bioinformatics, and collaborative scientific inquiry. During this lab, my lab partner and I isolated and classified a novel phage. We presented a poster of our research findings at the phage genomics conference (see poster below)

In-depth study of DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis, gene regulation, and recombinant DNA technology. Focused on molecular techniques and their applications in research and biotechnology. 

Comprehensive examination of cellular structure, organelle function, signaling pathways, and cell cycle regulation. Lab work included microscopy, cell staining, and analysis of cellular processes. This course culminated in a project exploring various DNA repair enzymes. A poster with the results of my experimentation was presented at a national Cell Biology Conference (see poster below)

Study of the molecular and cellular mechanisms guiding embryonic development, differentiation, and morphogenesis in model organisms. Covered concepts like gene regulation, signaling pathways, and pattern formation. 

Study of the immune system, including innate and adaptive immunity, antigen-antibody interactions, immunopathology, and vaccination strategies. Integrated case studies and emerging research. 

Focused on microbial pathogens, transmission mechanisms, host-pathogen interactions, and public health implications. Covered major bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic diseases. 

Explored the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying human disease, including disruptions in cell signaling, apoptosis, proliferation, and metabolism. Emphasized the pathophysiology of cancer, neurodegeneration, and genetic disorders, with a focus on linking cellular dysfunction to clinical outcomes. During this course my group and I presented about the pathophisiology of HIV/AIDS (see presentation below)

Fundamentals of disease distribution, determinants, and health outcomes in populations. Introduced study designs, measures of association, and critical appraisal of public health data. 

Examined global health challenges, disparities, health systems, and policies. Topics included infectious disease, maternal/child health, and global responses to health crises. This course culminated with my in-depth exploration of health inequities within the Egyptian public health system, specifically relating to a lack of sexual education in Egypt and other MENA countries.

Introduction to statistical methods in biomedical research. Topics included probability, hypothesis testing, regression, and statistical software application for data analysis. This course also provided me with the skills to complete an in-depth data analysis of survey data, health data, and soil nutrient data for my thesis

This course examines the intersections of environmental issues and social justice, with a focus on how environmental harms and benefits are distributed across different communities. Topics include the historical roots of environmental injustice, environmental racism, policy frameworks, grassroots movements, and the role of race, class, and geography in shaping environmental outcomes. Students engage with case studies, legal and policy analysis, and community-based approaches to explore solutions that promote equity and sustainability. This course culminated in the creation of a paper regarding the injustices brought to Indigenous American communities by the building of oil and gas pipelines through their land.

Study of human body systems, structure-function relationships, and physiological mechanisms. Integrated lab activities emphasized anatomical identification and physiological experimentation. 

Explored nutrient functions, metabolism, dietary requirements, and the role of nutrition in health and disease. Covered biochemical and public health aspects of nutrition science.