Student Blog

When I arrived at Caltech, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. Coming from New Zealand, everything felt new—the weather, the culture, even the way people talked about science. One of my first conversations on campus was explaining that no, New Zealand isn't part of Australia and yes, we do have more than just sheep and The Lord of the Rings. It was in those small moments of curiosity and connection that I started to feel at ease, realizing how welcoming and open everyone was.

The first few weeks were a whirlwind of meeting people and settling in. Orientation and rotation were great opportunities to connect with classmates, and I met one of my closest friends during a rotation event while exploring the houses. Living with my roommates has been one of the best parts of this experience. We've already shared so many laughs and late-night chats that make our dorm feel like home. Being on the women's basketball team has also been a highlight; there's something special about being part of a team that supports each other both on and off the court.

Adjusting to life in a new country hasn't always been easy, but the International Student Programs office has been a constant source of support. Whether it was helping me navigate visa paperwork or answering my many questions about life in the U.S., they've made settling into Caltech much less overwhelming.

Academically, Caltech is as challenging as I'd imagined, but what surprised me most was how collaborative it is. Whether it's working through problem sets with friends or getting guidance from TAs, there's always someone willing to help. As someone passionate about biology, bioengineering, and healthcare equity, it's inspiring to be surrounded by people who are just as driven to make a difference and who want you to succeed and make a difference of your own.

In New Zealand, we have a concept called manaakitanga—the value of showing respect, generosity and care for others. I've found that same spirit here at Caltech in countless ways: a teammate cheering me on during practice, a TA explaining a tricky concept with patience, or a roommate leaving a kind note after a long day. These moments remind me how much we thrive when we support one another. Reflecting on my first term so far, I'm grateful not only for the incredible education but also for the community that has made this place feel like so much more than just a school—it's become my home away from home.

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First Day of Classes, Fall 2024

Looking back now makes it seem like I've been a part of this place forever. A feeling that only Caltech has stirred in me; it's something that I've never experienced before in my life journey here, on Earth's soil and rock formations. I feel like a cog in a machine designed to benefit our beloved planet fills me with immense gratitude and I am grateful for being accepted into this community where science isn't just talked about or theorized but actively pursued and brought to life through experimentation and innovation.

Ever since I began pursuing my goal of embarking on the MD-PhD journey in medicine and research, I've discovered the resources I had been seeking all along; at times there are so many opportunities available that I can't help but feel a sense of guilt for not being able to explore them all! After arriving on campus, I wasted no time diving into activities like contributing articles for the California Tech publication and participating in work for Caltech Y organization while also dedicating time to lab work and establishing the EquiScience Riding Club for horse enthusiasts, like me – a fact I take great pride in! This unique blend of interests is a part of my identity that continues to evolve and brings me joy as I aim to represent my university with utmost pride and gratitude for the opportunities it has provided me. My horse, Deesse and I hit the gym every morning at 6 a.m. and with determination and careful planning, we manage to tackle any challenge that comes our way (literally). For me working out is about digging to focus entirely on my studies and research efforts. It's not a physical activity but a meaningful space for self-discovery.

Caltech provides encouragement to each student; I feel empowered to pursue my ideas and bring my projects to life with the Institute's support. My advice to new students: Connect with faculty members; they are eager to engage with students seeking a memorable experience. Since the beginning of my first-year journey, I have actively engaged with Braun Lab. I truly believe that I am in the place to turn my dreams into reality.

I could not be happier to be at Caltech. After just a few weeks at Caltech, I have found the friends I will spend the next four years with, made some great memories, and found a few clubs I believe I will enjoy being in for the next few years along with enjoying my coursework.

Beginning with orientation and rotation, everyone is excited to get to know each other, and making a friend is sometimes as simple as saying hi. Attend as many of the events as you can to meet other students in your class because you don't know the amazing people you could meet. For example, I met my current roommate during a rotation event at Lloyd House. Other than the social experiences of the first few weeks of Caltech, don't forget about the amazing academic opportunities that originally enticed you to come to Caltech. Feel free to reach out to faculty as early as you'd like to have an idea of what research would look like in labs you are interested in or to find out more information about a class you're interested in taking in the future. Although it may seem daunting to randomly email a professor, they are almost always more than happy to share information about their courses and research.

The biggest pieces of advice I can share for any incoming first year are to spend your first weeks of Caltech finding some great friends, the house you see yourself with, and any new hobbies or clubs you may be interested in. Also, join as many clubs as you'd like to find the few that you enjoy most.

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President Thomas F. Rosenbaum (left) and First-Year Student Aleksandar Marinkovic (right) at the New Student Picnic.