Kendra Frey '16

Name: Kendra Frey 

Graduating Class: 2016

Major: Biochemistry/Molecular Biology and Chemistry

Your Story: I knew that I wanted to go into medicine, but I didn’t want to give up my other interests along the way. I chose Gustavus because it allowed me to have balance. I’ve played violin for 18 years, and I knew I could pursue my passion for music here while double majoring in Chemistry and Biochemistry. Gustavus also gave me the flexibility to explore new areas that were interesting to me, and I was able to use that flexibility to study Russian for three and a half years as well. The curriculum let me pursue my passions and interests while still fulfilling my medical school prerequisites, which I didn’t know was even possible when I was in high school.

Top Five Activities/Experiences: (in no particular order)

1. Gustavus Symphony Orchestra
2. Swing Club
3. Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society
4. Russian Club
5. Attending the Nobel Conferences on campus every year

Advice:

1. Do not procrastinate. When you have time to do assignments or study, do them right then. I learned this very gradually, but free time is so much more rewarding when you know you’ve accomplished what you needed to do!

2. Related to #1: set aside time for yourself and stick to it. Exercise, play an instrument, go for a walk, watch TV...do something to relax periodically so you can be more productive when you’re studying.

3. Take the MCAT (or DAT, or whatever standardized test you need to take) at the end of J-term the winter before you apply. Spend all of winter break and J-term studying without the usual stress of classes so you can really focus on the exam. If you’re taking the exam in the morning, wake up early and take practice exams at the same time so you get used to how you’ll feel on exam day. And don’t forget to bring snacks to the exam!

Future Plans: Attending the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, start Fall 2016, Class of 2020.

 Updated: 9/11/2019 HB