Name: Kayt Tan
Hometown: Ewa Beach, Hawaii
Major: Physiology/Pre-Med
Year of graduation: 2021
Activities/clubs at SPU: Student Union Board, SPRINT, Food Recovery Network, Pre-Health Club, and Outdoor Recreation Program
What made you decide to come to SPU?
Initially, SPU wasn’t at the top of my list when it came to colleges. It wasn’t until I started talking with the admissions staff and visited campus that I actually fell in love with this school. While I loved its location, layout, size, and programs, it was really talking with the professors and staff that hooked me.
Being that I am pursuing a career in medicine, it was also really important for me to be at the place that would best support me and prepare me for medical school. While visiting, I talked with Dr. Wood about my career path, and I felt that SPU would be the best place to set me towards my goal of becoming a physician.
What are you most thankful for at SPU?
The opportunities! I have grown so much as a student, leader, and person because of all of the opportunities that SPU has given me through leadership, classes, and jobs.
What makes SPU unique (for you)?
I truly feel that the professors, faculty, and staff here at SPU are what has made my experience unique to me. My professors know not only my name, but also my story and learning style. Some of my favorite moments here at SPU have been because of my professors and supervisors.
Your best advice for SPU students, or potential SPU students?
Get ready for new experiences and lots of new friends! Don’t be afraid of the professors and other faculty because they really truly care about you. Try to participate in campus activities like First Friday and hall events like Arnett’s lip sync battle. It’s a great way to make SPU your home and form a strong community.
What are you most passionate about here at SPU?
I love leadership here at SPU. There is such a great community of student leaders on campus and amazing faculty supporting us. Being in various leadership positions, including a Student Union Board programmer and a resident advisor, has allowed me to grow and learn in ways I never imagined. I feel more confident in my ability to lead and more prepared to handle life because of what I have been able to do here.
It was scary the first time I applied for a leadership position, but once I got it, it felt like I was finally doing what I was meant to do! This campus functions because of faculty and student leaders and I am so honored to get to be a part of that.
Your plans for the future?
My long-term goal is to become an emergency pediatric physician. In the short-term, my focus is on getting into medical school within the next few years after taking a gap year to travel, work, and learn about life. I am also looking forward to my senior year and the classes that I get to take.