The Observer, March 3, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 19
Two Case students receive Honorable Mentions in USA Today
Case students Raymond Choi and Sunjay Mathur both received honorable mentions for the 2006 All-USA College Academic Team in USA Today. In the student profiles below, Choi and Mathur reminisce and comment on their future aspirations.
Raymond Choi
What is your major?
Chemistry major, minor in Asian Studies and biology
Where are you from?
Holland, Ohio
Why did you come to Case?
I came to Case because of the plentiful medical and research opportunities available here, and of course, I ended up having to pay very little money for a great private education.
What will be your fondest memory of Case?
My best memory of Case was working on the Case for UNICEF-Tsunami Relief Effort in the spring semester of my junior year.
How did you receive this award?
When I was nominated for this award, I was asked to write a 500 word essay about my "most outstanding intellectual endeavor," why that is, and how it has benefited society. It was tempting for me to write about my research, but as I sat down to write this essay, I found myself writing about Global Medical Initiative instead. I started this organization that ships medical supplies abroad, leads disaster relief efforts on campus, advocates public health issues on campus, and develops leadership in students wanting to become involved in international health.
What is your favorite activity?
Being involved in GMI and performing research have been my two favorite activities at Case. I also enjoy working in Mortar Board (great people) and Asian American Alliance.
Do you have favorite professors?
Sure, my favorite professors are Professors William Deal and Joanne Westin. They were great professors in and out of the classroom.
Do you have a role model?
Sure, my dad. He is the ballsiest and most hardworking person I've ever met.
What do you like to do for fun?
I like to go rock climbing and play tennis.
What are your future plans?
I hope to perform research in England next year or attend medical school.
Sunjay Mathur
What is your major?
Religion
Where are you from?
Highland Heights, Ohio
Why did you come to Case?
Locality, junior year abroad opportunities, strong undergraduate programs, and accessible faculty.
What will be your fondest memory of Case?
The numerous chances to make a difference locally and nationally. I will never forget the moment I learned that Case would build environmentally-friendly dormitories, despite years of neglecting such efforts as "too impractical and expensive." A group of students devoted themselves to the cause and, with a few years of hard work, made the unlikely a reality. The new dormitories in The Village at 115 are a monument to what ethically and socially-responsible students can achieve. Case is a place for dedicated students to fulfill their ambitions and make a difference.
How did you receive the award?
USA Today solicits applications from college students describing their interests, honors, and activities. I was particularly proud of what I've been able to accomplish with a team of undergraduates in the Journal Distribution Project (JDP).
Volumes of medical journals are routinely thrown away at major research universities in favor of digital libraries. Those of us with exposure to the international medical community know how difficult it is to come by such resources. Wouldn't it be nice to transfer the journals from the trash to the hands of doctors on the frontlines of care in less-developed countries? We've been able to take a good idea and transform it into a project that delivers meaningful results.
What is your favorite activity?
I've enjoyed singing for many years. In undergrad I've grown especially fond of joining group performances whenever possible.
Do you have a favorite professor?
I must admit that I'm partial to all of those who have taught me. Without a doubt most of the professors I have had took a personal interest in seeing their students grasp the material and be transformed by the learning process.
One professor who influenced my decision to declare a major in religion was Professor Peter Haas. Professor Haas is a dynamic lecturer who understands the historical, cultural, and social context of religion. Just as important as the richness of his religious perspective, Professor Haas is a wonderful person outside of the classroom. I've made the most of my undergraduate experience with Professor Haas' guidance.
Do you have a role model?
I've learned from many inspiring mentors over the years. It would not be an exaggeration to say that they have all influenced me in some way. In my growth as a socially-responsible student, however, I've learned a tremendous amount from those who see their academic work as a part of their life's contribution to society.
Professor Rhonda Williams introduced me to the idea of engaging pressing social issues with academic rigor. I have found her example powerful and invigorating.
What do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy working out, spending time with my baby niece, and catching-up with old friends.
What are your future plans?
I'm currently in my first year of medical school at Case. I've been amazed at the number of possibilities that await in clinical, research, and humanitarian enterprises. I look forward to enjoying my few years here to see where medicine takes me.
