Yana Surtchev

Hometown: I'm from Bulgaria but moved to Phoenix when I was 10.

Majors: MCB and Neuroscience and Cognitive Science, minors: Biochemistry and Music.

Research Lab: I'm in Dr. Cowen's lab and we work with rats to explore treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease.

Clubs and other activities: NSCSAS (neuroscience club), TAing for MCB 181 lab, volunteering at PACC, singing opera.

The best thing about being an ambassador:  I love being able to talk to incoming and current students and get them excited about their time in college. Whether they end up choosing MCB or not, I always enjoy helping them consider all their options and pick the option that best suits them.

Favorite classes: MCB 304 was one of the first core classes I took in the MCB major, and it immediately confirmed that I had made the right choice. I loved the content, and the professors made the learning experience really accessible and fun.

Ask me about: getting involved as a TA, general chemistry, and for any movie/TV show recs!