Selby Scholar Tammy Flores is a senior at Florida State University with a passion for medicine, leadership, helping others and flag twirling. She took a moment to reflect on being a Selby Scholar, her college experience and her plans for the future.
What has surprised you about your college experience?
I never thought I would be on any type of collegiate team despite my prior experience in high school. I had my mind set on the fact that, once I went to college, I would focus solely on academics. As a spur-of-the-moment decision during the end of my sophomore year, I decided to audition for FSU’s Marching Chiefs as a flag twirler. It’s been one of the most memorable parts of college. I love spinning with my team at all home football games, and it made my junior and senior year special at FSU. Traveling to Orlando, Miami, New Orleans and North Carolina to perform for bowl games and the ACC championships was a great way to maintain balance in my life outside of academics.
Doing genetics research with maize and working as a field technician for the past two years while getting my Medical Assistant Certification on the side have also been highlights.
What has been most rewarding?
Serving on the executive board of organizations that inspire me, such as FSU’s undergraduate American Medical Student Association and FSU’s undergraduate Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society for the past few years has been rewarding. My senior year, I was elected to serve as Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society’s President.
I never would have thought I would be leading the next generation of students in the biological sciences to continue pursuing knowledge, research and philanthropy. I have made many structural changes to the organization. Seeing it thriving as students connect with others and the community has been the most rewarding.
What has it meant to you to be a Selby Scholar?
To me, a Selby Scholar is a well-rounded leader. Leaders often have to step outside their comfort zone to not only actualize their visions but help others with theirs along the way.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be applying for medical school right after graduation and plan to continue working as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant while applying to get more experience.
Anything else you want us to know?
Currently, I am doing my last fundraiser with Beta Beta Beta Biological Biological Honor Society to raise $1000 for American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life funding cancer research. I am hoping to spread the word for this amazing cause to reach our goal we are a little over halfway there!
We wish Tammy every success as she finishes her last year of undergraduate school and continues to make a difference both inside and outside of classrooms!