Biology - Student Profile - Elise Litwiller

Elise works on an experiment in the biology lab

Elise Litwiller
Sophomore, Biology
Minier, Ill.

What drew you to Hesston College?
I knew I wanted to go to a Mennonite college and when my brother was here I visited and fell in love with the campus and all the friendly people.

What attracts you to biology?
I've always wanted a profession in medicine, and I am now interested in studying physical therapy. I love learning about body parts and how I'm put together

How challenging are the academics in the biology program?
The biology classes I've taken have been very challenging, but Hugo Boschmann is a great professor. He teaches things so you remember them.

What is your favorite biology course? Why is it your favorite?
I've taken Cell Biology and Microbiology here at Hesston. My favorite is probably Microbiology. It's a little bit easier, so I understand it better and as a result I enjoy it more.

Did you find opportunities/learning experiences outside the classroom?
It's really cool to apply what I've learned outside the classroom. I like to look around me and see something, and know what's going on deep down. Applying what I've learned in class really brings it to life.

What are the professors like in the department?
Hugo is a great professor. He gets help for his students when they need it, and he's very passionate about what he teaches. He knows so much and you can tell he wants to pass that knowledge along to his students.

What are some of your most memorable moments as a student at Hesston?
Some of my most memorable moments come from outside the classroom. Making new friends and building relationships with the friends I know I'll stay in touch with for the rest of my life has been an incredible experience that I wouldn't trade for anything.

What are your plans for after Hesston?
After Hesston I will transfer to Eastern Mennonite University to continue my education. I will study in the pre-professional health sciences program, then I will transfer to a physical therapy school to finish up my education. The pre-professional health program is for people interested in physical therapy, occupational therapy, dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, and more.