Name: Andrew H Wheeler

Title of Program: Critical Thinking in Diversified fields (Mathematics, Biochemistry, & Latin) and Research in Biochemical Pathways of Antibiotic Resistance

E-mail Address: awheele4@utk.edu

Hometown: Henderson, TN

Year: Sophomore

Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2009

Description of Program: Using the critical thought process gained from the problem-solving oriented fields of mathematics, chemistry, and Latin and applying that thought process to research in Biochemistry. Consequently, I hope to gain great insight into the scientific method and the ways about which to effectively and efficiently solve problems, a must for my success as a future physician.

Departmental Emphases: Mathematics, Biochemistry, and Latin

Faculty Mentor: Engin Serpersu, Professor of Biochemistry and Cellular & Molecular Biology

Plans after graduation (career, graduate/professional school, etc.): Attend medical school in Tennessee pursuing an MD/PhD degree in Cardiology and related advanced research (i.e., sudden cardiac death, etc.)

Other Academic Interests: Loosely, learning the many ways in which all fields of study tie together so intricately.

Prior Enrollment at Other Colleges or Universities: N/A

Study Abroad: Looking for an opportunity for Summer 2007

Research Experiences or Internships: Currently working under Dr. Serpersu in the department of BCMB studying aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes (AGMEs) (specifically O-phosphotransferases) that modify aminoglycoside antibiotics and render them useless in treating infection.

Part-time employment; Hobbies; Campus Clubs/Activities: Clinic Vols, Alpha Epsilon Delta, playing piano, Dance Dance Revolutions (oddly enough), and cooking (because it’s chemistry!).

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