Lauren Kot, Class of 2025, already has her dream job: she is a professional ballet dancer with Saint Louis Ballet. Yet, she enrolled in the School of Continuing & Professional Studies at Washington University in pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in health care and hopes to embark on a career in medical research once her dancing days are over.
Why WashU?
I didn’t have to get a college degree to start my career. But in the end, I realized I love school, and I’m interested in all things health and medical. I remember reading about all of the research coming out of WashU and thought it would be an amazing opportunity to be in a place where so many new things were happening. For someone like me, who wants to go into research, WashU was the best place to be.
Do you remember how you felt when you learned you were getting a scholarship to WashU?
I was so excited! Every time you apply for something like this, you never really know if you’re going to get it. So I didn’t want to get my hopes up, but I was so elated. I called my family right away. They were so very happy for me and so happy that we didn’t have to worry about financing school.
What’s your favorite class?
I really love any class that’s in a lab setting. I love being hands-on in the classroom doing everything by myself. I also am so glad I get to take Greek mythology. I can’t take a full course load because I work during the day, so the opportunity to spend a little time on something outside my major is really awesome.
What has your WashU experience been like so far?
The environment here really stands out. I have been so accepted by all the students and professors. The things that I’m learning at WashU in health sciences apply to my dancing and my life.
WashU has definitely helped me see things differently and think differently. Being amongst people from every background, having teachers with such diverse experiences really exposes you to different perspectives. I’m immersing myself in all the experiences and trying to learn as much as possible.
What would you say to someone who was considering making a gift to WashU?
Scholarships really do make a difference. A lot of people view college as unattainable because of finances, and it seems like this big thing that they can’t reach. Scholarships make college so much more attainable. Even a small contribution can pave the way for a student’s education. I never imagined that I would be here. So I’m just so grateful to be a student, to have a scholarship, and to be surrounded by incredible people.
What excites you about the future of WashU?
I think our graduates are really going to make a difference. People are here to learn and change the world, and I have no doubt we will make a big impact.