Olivia Wolf

Class Year

’23

Hometown

Rochester, Ill.

Major(s)

Neuroscience, Biology

Minor(s)

Chemistry

“Neuroscience is a department that crosses over with chemistry, biology, and psychology. If someone has many science interests or they cannot decide which area to specifically major in, neuroscience is an excellent choice to get a taste of them all.”

Olivia Wolf, ’23

Career goal

“After graduation, I plan to attend medical school with the goal of becoming a pediatric physician.”

How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?

Professor Paul Martino was my professor for both Advanced Anatomical Systems and Advanced Physiology and, through these classes, agreed to become one of my advisors. Not only is he an enthusiastic and engaging professor, but he truly cares about the success of his students. He is always available to answer any questions I have about class material or to ease my mind about the next steps in my education. My ultimate goal is to end up on his wall of success in his office — should that happen, I will know I have ‘made it.’”

Favorite class

“My favorite class has been Neuroscience Research Methods and Statistical Analysis (Rat Lab) with Professor Daniel Miller. Not only did Prof. Miller make the learning environment stress-free and light-hearted, but it was such an amazing experience to be able to take a hands-on research class so early in my college career.”

Campus involvement

“I am a member of Chi Omega (social sorority), Tri Beta National Honors Society, Pre-Health Club, Neuroscience Club, and the National Society of Leadership & Success (NSLS). In addition to these organizations, I also work as a Student Ambassador and have been an Orientation Leader for two years.”

Toughest class

“Thus far, my most challenging class has been Organic Chemistry II. The material is highly complicated and requires a lot of memorization. However, Professor Suzie Stevenson worked with me personally to ensure my success in the class.”

Internships or on-campus employment

“Because of my interest in research after taking my Rat Lab class, I was chosen to be the Neuroscience Department fellow and to manage the rat lab. In these positions, I ensure that the rats are taken care of, collect and organize raw data for the statistical analysis, and teach students in the class how to perform techniques such as brain extractions and slide staining.”

Opportunities at Carthage

“Due to my participation in the Neuroscience Department and Biology Department research, I was able to present our semester’s research progress and findings alongside other students at the Celebration of Scholars event. In the future, I hope to attend the Honduras J-Term study tour with Prof. Miller and Prof. Martino.”

Favorite moments and memories at Carthage

“My favorite memories on campus are either the spontaneous day trips that my friends and I take to Milwaukee or Chicago or the 2 a.m. laugh, snack, and study sessions prior to finals.”

Favorite spot on campus

“I really enjoy going down to Lake Michigan’s shoreline behind The Tower Residence Hall to either study, relax, or look for sea glass.”

Biggest surprise so far

“Prior to coming to college, I never thought that I would be involved in Greek life. However, it has been one of the most rewarding experiences. I remember my bid night where I ‘ran home’ and I had never felt more welcome in a room full of mostly strangers. I was immediately embraced and loved by women who have now become some of my best friends.”

What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?

“I would like to think that my eight-year-old self would be proud. Even though I knew I wanted to be a doctor at a young age, it would be comforting to know that I am on the path to making that dream come true.”

Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?

“Neuroscience is a department that crosses over with chemistry, biology, and psychology. If someone has many science interests or they cannot decide which area to specifically major in, neuroscience is an excellent choice to get a taste of them all.”

Why Carthage?

“Carthage College was one of the only campuses I visited where I immediately felt safe and at home. Additionally, the small class sizes, personable professors, and view of Lake Michigan solidified my choice.”