Studying Biology at Southwestern College in San Diego

Alexis Putrino plans to transfer to a 4-year UC or private university

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

I wanted to study in the States, not only because of the plethora of study and work opportunities available here but because I wanted to broaden my horizons and advance in my academic career.

Why did you choose your college?

I chose Southwestern College because of the variety of programs that they offer, as well as being able to transfer to a UC [University of California system] or [a private university such as] the University of San Diego more easily.

Have you taken any classes outside your major that you’ve enjoyed?

As someone who is currently completing general education requirements, I have really enjoyed taking English 115, because it challenged me to think critically about current and pressing topics and create arguments that are outside of my comfort zone. Overall, it also has helped me write essays with more ease.

What were some struggles you faced and how did you handle them?

Personally, while I didn’t struggle with adjusting to a different culture or country, it was an adjustment to understand the different lifestyles that they have here, as well as learning the teaching methods that they use here to teach the classes. 

Overall, while it did take me some time to understand everything and adjust to my new surroundings, after that initial stage, everything has become easier, and taking different classes has become more of a routine than a challenge.

What is your favorite place on campus?

My favorite place would have to be the library. I really enjoy how you can either study on your own with a big desk or book a room to study with other students.

What do you want to do after graduation?

My plan is to graduate with my associate degree in biology, and then transfer to a UC to get my bachelor’s in biomedical engineering.

What are some of your summer plans?

My summer plans are to take some classes, play some beach volleyball with my friends, and hopefully get a summer internship at a university to do some lab research.

Does your college organize any fun events you’ve attended?

The school will always have some fun events planned, or if you join a club, there are often weekly events that you can participate in. My favorite event that I attended was in Chem Club, where we went to the laboratories to learn and create a type of nanoparticles that illuminate under UV light. [The scientists who discovered these “quantum dots”] were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for the year 2023.

Have you traveled around the U.S.? Where would you like to go?

I’m still exploring the different parts of San Diego and haven’t really traveled to other states (except their airports), but I’ve always wanted to travel to Washington, DC, to see its historic landmarks.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a student?

I don’t really have a favorite memory, since I’ve enjoyed everything that I have experienced so far as a student; however, meeting new people and getting to know them has been a really great experience. 

Describe your experience in three words.

Fun, educational, and exciting.

What would you tell students who are considering studying in the USA?

I would say that if you’re looking for ways to boost your academic and career goals or want to experience different cultures and lifestyles and gain new experiences, then studying in the USA is a really great option to consider if you want to study abroad.