Kennedy Sparling portrait with Elena Pravosudova

Kennedy Sparling

Neuroscience Faculty mentor: Elena Pravosudova

Summary

What are your plans after graduating?

After graduating, I will be continuing my education at the University of Arizona, Phoenix-College of Medicine.

What is the most important piece of advice you’d give to an incoming college freshman?

To incoming freshman, follow your passions and don't compare yourself to others. I remember when I first started at the University, I already knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. I remember initially being consumed with the idea that I needed to get involved, do well in my classes, and ultimately "check the boxes" so I could be successful at getting into medical school. This led me to waste so much of my freshman year doing things I didn't actually care about. I was constantly comparing myself to others and forcing myself to do certain things because other people achieved my goals by doing similar things. After being miserable and almost changing my career aspirations, I decided to do only what I genuinely cared about and stopped comparing myself to others. As a result, I got so much more out of my courses, experiences, and relationships and was able to use college as a time to figure out who I am and what I want.

Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

In 15 years, I hope to return back to Nevada to practice medicine for my community!