Experiences

Honors Mentoring Meal with Dr. Nimanka Panapitiya

In this mentoring meal, we took our previous Organic Chemistry professor, Dr. Nimanka Panapitiya, out for dinner at Thai’s Thumbz.

This meal was an amazing opportunity to learn more about one of our favorite professors outside the classroom. We learned about his educational journey — from earning his master’s and PhD at UT Dallas (Whoosh!) — to becoming a professor at UT Dallas. We also learned about his undergraduate days and his reason for loving chemistry. In addition, he provided us with valuable advice; he talked with us about MCAT studying and medical school advice, gave us advice on finding research opportunities, and encouraged us to pursue higher-level coursework in chemistry with other faculty members at UTD.

This meal was also a reminder of the valuable insights that professors can provide outside of academics; Dr. Pan reminded us to pursue hobbies outside of class and to make self-care and time with loved ones a priority in order to stay calm and navigate the stresses of applications and classes.

Overall, this meal allowed us to build a stronger relationship with Dr. Pan in a way that would not have been possible in the classroom or in office hours; it also reminded us of how much we love Dr. Pan, and how much he cares about his students!

My UTD: Study Abroad with Michelle Tan

Michelle Tan is a biology senior who is also minoring in secondary STEM education through the UTeach Dallas program. 

Michelle, who is a National Merit Scholar, plans to become an educator after completing her degree. At UT Dallas, she is involved in the Chinese Student Association, Filipino Student Association, American Medical Womens Association, UTD Service Dogs in Training and Swim Club, and is also a First Year Leader. During the summer she took part in a faculty-led study abroad program to Japan, where she studied Japanese history and communication. 

Follow along to see Michelle’s experience.