Alexis Geddis '26, Nutrition: Nutritional Sciences
Alexis Geddis ’26, from Rochester NH, is a Nutritional Sciences student in the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture. Alexsis shared her experience as a transfer student and how she enrolled in her major.
Why did you choose UNH?
I transferred to UNH my sophomore year of college, initially terrified of being labeled a failure because I was coming home to enroll in my hometown state school, just 15 minutes from where I grew up. With no clear idea of what major interested me, I enrolled Fall 2023 as a Biology major. By fall 2024 I officially transferred into the nutrition program with hopes to infiltrate my knowledge of health and medicine with necessary nutrition education that improve long term health, decrease risk of chronic disease, an help build a stronger bridge in our society between health and food.
Throughout that year, I focused on finding my place at UNH and getting involved in organizations around campus. Instead of dwelling on the fact that I was back home, unsure of what education pathway called my name, and lacking friends; I found my place here at the University of New Hampshire. I find myself looking back and wishing I had begun my journey at UNH as a freshman; however, what I have experienced here is beyond what I could have ever wished for.
As a first-generation college student, I am deeply honored to have been a student at UNH and to have had the opportunities I have been given. These opportunities provided me with tools to thrive academically and personally. Through engaging in research, taking courses that only made me more excited to learn, building meaningful friendships, learning from inspiring professors, and creating lasting memories; I have grown not only as a student but as an individual. These experiences have only made my passion for health and science stronger and has preparing me for the real-world challenges as I continue my journey in the healthcare field.
What is your major and what do you love about it?
I am a Nutritional Science major and I am studying here at UNH to receive a B.S with a goal of continuing my education in a Master of Science program in Physician Assistant Studies. Something I love about my studies here at UNH is how nutrition is heavily included in the foundation of all health. Throughout my studies and research experiences here at UNH, I have come to understand how closely nutrition and medicine are and how food can contribute to the development of disease and serve as powerful tools in treatment and prevention.
What's the best academic experience you've had at UNH?
The best academic experience I have had here at UNH would have to be my research experience under Jesse Stable Morrell, in the CHANAS lab. This opportunity allowed me to see the importance of nutrition education and how it can affect our physical health. The main focus of the CHANAS study was how food and lifestyle can directly impact health and wellbeing. Being a nutrition major at UNH and being able to learn under the professors I have, and contribute to the projects I have helped in has changed my perspective of food. UNH has taught me that nutrition education directly promotes healing and long-term wellness. Educated in this field, not only gives me the tools I need to help others, but sets me up to live a healthy life.
What's the best experience you've had at UNH outside the classroom/lab?
The best experience I have had at UNH that isn't academic, would be my involvement and Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed community service fraternity on campus. Throughout my years involved in this chapter, I have been able to grasp a better understanding on how service to the campus, to the country, and to ourselves will only help form a better earth, a better world, and a better society.
How is UNH preparing you to achieve your goals?
UNH has prepared me to achieve my goals by offering a surplus of classes that I can enroll in to further expand my knowledge. The classes that are offered have been tweaked to fit the curriculum and set students up for success in real world situations .The classes offered are taught by high-level, well trained, and passionate professors. The professors want you to succeed, especially those of COLSA, and will work tirelessly beside you to ensure you reach your goals.
Are there any faculty or staff members who have made you feel particularly supported and encouraged at UNH? If yes, please tell us about them.
Prospective students should know that UNH is a high-quality research institution that offers substantial tools and tips to support academic growth and success. Something I wish I knew sooner was that you have to make the effort to be involved. College is hard and often the first time away from home for young adults. It is important to remember that things.will get better if you make an effort to be involved and find your place here on campus.
Where have you found a sense of community at UNH?
Something unique about me is that I have been dancing for 17 years and was a member of the UNH dance company for two consecutive years. I joined my sophomore year when I transferred here and was luckily enough to be a part of the company for my sophomore and junior year. Unfortunately, I decided to take a step back from the company so I could focus on my academics and be more involved in my college(COLSA) as a student and as a member of my community. Being a part of this team was an incredible way to meet friends, professors, and other students with different majors yet common interests!
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