Katherine Vaillancourt

I am a Model United Nations member, Co-Chair of the Alternative Break Board, Secretary of History Club, Founding Member of the Alma College Chapter of the Community of San’t Egidio, a member of the Public Affairs Institute.

After Alma, I plan to go to medical school and graduate school for a joint MD/PhD program focusing on women’s and children’s health and epigenetics.

While at Alma, I have had the opportunity to be a part of engaging the Alma College and Gratiot County communities in a reproductive health study regarding the effects of PBB on the human body performed by Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Heath in Michigan. The study has been supported by the Pine River Citizens Task Force and as an assistant researcher, I have become more involved with the Pine River Public Health Committee, specifically in educating students in Alma regarding the Pine River Superfund site and the effects of environmental contamination on the body. This study has allowed me to become more involved in the community and has been a way for me to connect my interests in history and health.

My advice to freshman is to appreciate the opportunities that arise for students at Alma and do things that are outside of your comfort zone. Take responsibility for making yourself a global citizen while at Alma by doing things that you love, trying new things, and becoming involved in the community.

My advice to a prospective student is to understand how Alma College allows you to set yourself apart as a student with the countless opportunities that you have while here. Being at Alma allows students to hone in on their interests, pursue them, and collaborate with others in order to enhance their understanding of them.

The collaboration that occurs between students and faculty. Also, being a student comes with a lot of responsibility. Alma College gives students support for undertaking this responsibility, while still allowing students to make their own choices and find their own interests.