Meet Rachel Rebello!

Name: Rachel Marie Rebello

Year: 2019

Major: Biological Sciences

Minor: Spanish

Extracurriculars: Running, playing piano, reading, sleeping, trying not to make awkward eye contact with people in the elevator

Clubs/Groups: Rutgers Catholic Student Association, International Friendship Program

Hometown: South Brunswick (the best of the Brunswicks)

1. What made you decide to study Biology? 

I have always loved the sciences. I grew up on Animal Planet documentaries and enjoyed learning about how different organisms and living systems function throughout middle school and high school, so Biology was a clear choice for me. 

2. Do you do any research? What is that like?

Yes, I am currently doing undergrad research in the Soto Lab, which works with C.elegans (roundworms) in order to identify genes that control cellular movement at the embryonic stage. I really enjoy it because I get to apply all the concepts and techniques I’ve learned from courses like Genetics, and discover something new. Based on my experience, research is really a team effort. Every project is a collaboration of ideas, and inputs from different scientists, all of which add a different layer and perspective to your story. Research has been one of the most rewarding experiences here at Rutgers, especially under the guidance of my amazing mentor (shoutout to Hamidah Radwuan) and PI (Dr. Soto). 

3. Do you plan on ever studying abroad? If so, where would you like to go given the opportunity?

Yes! I am studying abroad in Peru this summer. I am really excited. As part of the program, which is run by the Spanish department, I get to volunteer at a local hospital in Cuzco and visit a host of historic and natural attractions. I am pumped to see Machu Picchu and meet some llamas. 

4.Do you enjoy living on campus? What are the pros and cons of living on campus for you?

I enjoy living on campus. I lived in the Honors College last year and currently live in Campbell on College Ave. Each dorm has its own quirks. 

Pros: 

• Easy way to make friends. Most of my friends are my former or current floor mates. 
• You get a sense of being independent, and figuring out stuff on your own. 
• It’s convenient, and close (hopefully) to your classes. 

Cons: 

• The cost, obviously. 
• There is a minimum meal plan requirement for most accommodations
• Public bathrooms are inherently gross and bathroom stalls are designed to be uncomfortably small. 

5. What is something that you would recommend to upcoming freshmen/transfer students?

• Nielson dining hall on Cook-Douglas is the best, and highly underrated. 
• Always run for the bus. It’s a surefire way to get a workout and look cool. Having a large, and cumbersome backpack when doing so is a definite plus. 
• Get to know all of your professors and go to office hours at least once. If they do not know your name, then you are just a number. 
• Go to at least one football game. I have never gone, so let me know how it goes.