Kristen Kerr

Andalusia, AL

From a hands-on archaeology course where she had the opportunity to uncover artifacts untouched for years, to growing drug-resistant yeast in genetics lab, Birmingham-Southern senior biology major Kristen Kerr says her college experience “has been enriched with interesting and intellectually stimulating courses.”

Kerr, who is also a member of the BSC Honors Program, has plans to head on to medical school after BSC and study to become a gynecologist.

“The classes that I have taken at BSC, particularly in the science department, have truly taught me how to think,” she says. “Instead of just memorizing facts, the professors work to effectively present material, and then to apply the concepts learned in the classroom to what we do in the lab.”

For her senior research project, Kerr is working with UAB gynecologic oncologist Dr. Warner Huh to compare the outcomes of morbidly obese women with endometrial cancer undergoing open versus minimally invasive surgery.

She credits her professors' willingness to teach, regardless of when and where it happens.

“Professors continue our learning through their open-door policy,” Kerr says. “They are always available to answer questions, giving mini-lectures on the dry erase boards in their offices. I have truly gotten to know and respect my professors both as teachers and as people.”