Before coming to the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) I was attending Montgomery College (MC) and majoring in Biotechnology. I chose to major in Biotechnology at MC because of the versatility the program offered among STEM-related careers. When I was in my third semester at MC, I originally planned to only obtain my associates degree and enter the work force right away. But my plans changed after a couple of my Biotechnology professors at MC informed me of a new degree being offered by UMBC at USG called Translational Life Science Technology (TLST). After hearing the program’s breakdown from Dr. Annica Wayman, UMBC’s Associate Dean for the program, I was convinced to continue on to pursue my bachelor’s degree in TLST.  

Once I applied and was accepted into the TLST program, I was very happy with my decision. Choosing to take my classes on the USG campus had so many benefits — it was close to home, the class schedules still allowed me to work, and the tuition fees were more affordable. I also really enjoy the classes and appreciate how knowledgeable the professors are and the personalized guidance they provide to help students succeed after graduation. Due to COVID-19, I have unfortunately not been able to get involved in many clubs, but I intend to do so once the campus is fully operational again in the fall. In fact, I look forward in joining the TLST Club!

The field of biotechnology is always developing, and new discoveries are being made every day. As a new program at USG, and with COVID interrupting in-person instruction over the last several months, I have remained impressed with how the TLST program has operated through such challenging times. I look forward to seeing the continued development in the program, and seeing more students join in the coming semesters.

Upon graduating I would like to work in either Bioprocessing or in Bioinformatics, but I am also considering working in academia or in a private biotech company.  I want to use what I learned at UMBC at USG to help cure diseases that are devastating in today’s society. I also hope to continue my education and obtain a master’s degree to expand my knowledge in this field.

As a new program at USG, and with COVID interrupting in-person instruction over the last several months, I have remained impressed with how the TLST program has operated through such challenging times.
Sean Deleon