This past homecoming, the School of Integrative Biology was honored to have IB Honors student Anjali Yedavalli elected to the 2024 Homecoming Court. Anjali took the time to talk to us about her experience being on the court, her time with IB, and her aspirations once she finishes graduates in the spring.
What was your experience being on the Homecoming Court?
It was truly magical. I loved going to the events and meeting the other members of Court. I learned all the incredible ways they impacted campus culture and bettered the community around them. My favorite events were the Alumni Association Gala and, of course, the Homecoming Game on September 14th. It felt very full circle to have the opportunity to be recognized, on the big Memorial Stadium screen, in front of the school I love.
What drew you to Integrative Biology?
I loved the unique application of Integrative Biology - so many courses combined concepts like evolution, ecology, and genomics with human health, which I found incredibly interesting. I also felt that an education in IB would help inform my future research and career as a public health practitioner. My rigorous education in the IBH program set me up for success when I did bioethics research at Johns Hopkins in 2022 and health equity research at the Mayo Clinic this past summer.
Can you tell me what you’re looking forward to this semester and next semester?
This semester, I’m looking forward to my a cappella performances! I am the President of the Illinois Rip Chords (On Instagram @illinoisripchords), the competitive treble a cappella group on campus. I love getting to sing with my friends and share the art we work so hard to create with the community. I also make my own music, and I love getting to celebrate my song releases with my friends on campus. Generally speaking, I’m also looking forward to all my “lasts” – I want to watch games with my friends, visit my favorite on and off-campus spots, and experience the seasons shift on campus. In the Spring, I can’t wait to continue with my research and celebrate my final semester at UIUC.
What are your goals after graduation? What kind of career are you working towards?
I plan on going to graduate school for public health (MPH) and eventually entering the field as either a public health analyst or epidemiologist. I love public health research and want to strengthen public health infrastructure in our country and work to reduce health disparities among marginalized groups. My degree in IB will hopefully help inform my knowledge of disease mechanics and human health.
Please tell us a bit about your overall experience at Illinois.
My experience at Illinois was a journey with highs and lows. When I started Freshman year, I was not sure I would fully adjust to life in Champaign. It took me a long time to build connections and become sure of myself. As I continued to push myself to chase opportunities both on and off campus, I discovered new parts of myself. I’ve had the chance to do research across the country during my summers and here on campus during the school year, join many different clubs that I’ve poured my heart into, and make lifelong new connections–and strengthened old ones. It was a perfect experience, despite all the imperfections.
Are there any words of wisdom you’d like to pass on to incoming students and freshmen?
Everyone’s path is their own. Don’t spend too much time comparing your college experience to others, as you will miss out on what you have right in front of you. Time is precious, so make the most of the community you have at your disposal. At the same time, don’t feel guilty for taking time for yourself. Everyone needs the chance to recharge so they can be at their best. On a less vague note – join clubs, they will be the highlight of your college experience! And chase after the things you always wanted to do. I never thought I’d release music on streaming platforms, and yet, here I am.