Graduating Senior Spotlight: Paige Ripberger
By: TAMU Biology
Meet Paige Ripberger! Her love of pursuing scientific knowledge led her to study Biology at Texas A&M, where her passion for medicine was ignited. Learning about the intricacies of the human body through her favorite course, Anatomy and Physiology, Paige has gained a strong foundation to pursue her career as a Physician Assistant after graduation.
What inspired you to major in Biology at Texas A&M?
Ever since I was younger, I have always had a love for science. I loved learning how the world worked, and was constantly intrigued to learn more about nature, the human body, and life! I had an incredible AP Biology teacher in high school who encouraged us to dream big and never stop exploring the world around us. With biology, I have realized that there is always something new to learn, which is one of the aspects I love most about science.
What has been your favorite biology class or lab experience, and why?
Although I love microbiology and genetics, my favorite course I took at Texas A&M has been Anatomy and Physiology 1 with Dr. Cohn. This class ignited my passion for medicine as I learned about the intricacies of the human body. Dr. Cohn is passionate about the topic and an astounding teacher, and I eventually recommended his class to fellow students and friends.
Tell us about a research project, internship, or student org that made a big impact on your time here.
During my four years as an undergrad at Texas A&M, I have had the wonderful opportunity to get involved with The Big Event here on campus. The Big Event is the largest student-run service project in the nation, and I was able to serve as both a staff member and committee leader. As a committee leader, I worked alongside fellow student leaders to help organize the event in order to serve residents of the Bryan College Station community. This experience left a lasting impact on me, teaching me the importance of service and the value of community.
What’s the most surprising or coolest thing you learned as a biology major?
As an undergraduate researcher, I studied bacteriophage lysis and discovered a novel phage. While working in the wet lab, I was able to dive deeper into lysis mechanisms and the methods of a phage hunt. I thought it was fascinating to learn that the Mu Phage lacks the holin protein in it’s innermembrane, and instead has a similar protein called the releasin. This highlights the vast genomic variety among even the smallest of organisms and plays a critical role in the future of phage therapy.
Who has been your biggest mentor or source of support at TAMU?
The Biology Department has so many remarkable individuals who are always eager to help and invest in students’ success. While there have been many people who have supported me during my time at Texas A&M, I have had the opportunity to research under Dr. Jolene Ramsey for the past three years. Her continual support of my education has had an immense impact on me and my academic journey, and I am confident that she will be a mentor and friend, even after graduation. She has taught me countless lessons both inside and outside of the lab that will stick with me beyond my time at Texas A&M.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduating with my B.S. in Biology in May, I will be working as a Surgical Medical Assistant at BCS Eye Clinic in Bryan. I am currently applying to PA school with the hope of pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant. I am beyond grateful for the well-rounded education and experiences from Texas A&M that have shaped me into the person I am today. I am confident that these past four years have laid an incredible foundation for what’s to come!
What advice would you give to new Biology students?
If I could tell my younger self one thing, it would be to take advantage of the endless opportunities this university has to offer! Texas A&M is a large school, and that can definitely feel intimidating as a freshman walking on campus for the first time. However, I would encourage you to get involved in student organizations early, go to every class (even those 8 am labs), and make the most of your four years because they really do go by in the blink of an eye.
What Aggie tradition or memory will you treasure most?
As the first Aggie in my family, I walked into College Station without knowing anything about the traditions or sense of community A&M had to offer. Everything from Muster, to The Big Event, to Midnight Yell, and Silver Taps, Aggies are called to be leaders and to serve others with integrity. This school is truly something special. If you’re the first Aggie in your family, like I was, I urge you to lean into every tradition and give this school your all; you will receive countless memories and lifelong friendships in return.
