Microbiology Major: Sarah Redington

How did you decide on your program?

I was originally a different major and was looking for a quicker way to get my degree and apply to a physician assistant program. I didn't officially decide to be a micro major until after I had taken the first few courses, which I enjoyed so much that my decision to switch was easy. I loved working in the microbiology lab and learning new techniques.

What’s the best part about being a Microbiology major?

My favorite part about being a micro major is the new abilities I gain in the micro lab. These are not just silly procedures I will try once and never use again. Each new procedure I learn can be utilized in the real world. The professors are very helpful in explaining how each procedure works and why we use it. I guess I'm trying to say I feel like the labs have purpose. I honestly enjoy isolating and identifying organisms through enrichment, dilutions, plating, staining and other techniques. To me it's not just useful, it's fun.

What’s been your favorite class so far and why?

Food Microbiology has been my absolute favorite class. I was fascinated by every topic we discussed and I loved to learn how microbes played such an important role in the things we eat every day. I also enjoyed the lab, where we made sauerkraut, vinegar, and yogurt. The tasting lab was my favorite and I ended up trying some new things.

What do you wish more people knew about the College of Science?

I think many people are intimidated by the College of Science because it sounds difficult. But anyone can do this! Just like any other class, the classes in my major require time and effort, but honestly, they are not any more difficult to pull a good grade out of than other courses.

What do you like most about Weber State University?

I like the small class sizes. I talk to my friends from other universities who are in a class of 400 people and I can't imagine how that would be. Here I feel recognized as an individual, not just a face in the crowd. The professors care about my learning experience and take the time to answer any questions I or my classmates have.

"I feel very prepared for the PA program now."

Sarah wants to be a physician assistant after she graduates but she knows that her microbiology degree can be applied to a variety of different fields. "I learned that the job opportunities for a person with a micro degree are really quite extensive."