Alex Krawczyk finds his passion for genetics
Alex Krawczyk, who grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, will be graduating this spring with a bachelor’s in genetics and genomics and life sciences communication. In this Q&A, he talks about why he switched to the genetics and genomics major, his study abroad experience in Thailand, and his involvement in student organizations. He plans to work in biomedical sales and marketing. You can watch his video interview at the bottom of the page or on YouTube.
Why did you choose your major? What was the most interesting or the coolest thing you learned?
I am a genetics and genomics major. I switched from biology to genetics because of a class I took my first year. I took the class and thought it was applicable to many of the current events going in recent science news. I still believe that genetics can be relevant to most of the research done not only around campus, but in labs all over the world. I connected with the professors in the genetics major, and I really enjoyed how they were open to meet and talk about all types of science. I feel with a smaller major, you are able to connect with your fellow classmates easier, and learn more collectively. I think the coolest thing I have learned over the course of my college career would be all the different genetic factors that determine how we function and who we are. Especially how our genome can be so large, yet singular genes can determine large factors of who we are. One specific fact that I remember is sex determination in alligators, where it is all determined on the temperature of the water and it has nothing to do with the chromosomes at all.
What student organizations, groups, and other activities were you involved in?
One large club that I was a part of was State Street Eats. It was a club that organized and facilitated a social interactive group, creating a supportive environment for students to connect, engage, and meet others. It was fun to meet new people and make new friends. We started off with 4 members and now the club has grown much more.
What are your future academic and/or career plans, short-term and long-term?
My goal is to find a job in biomedical sales/marketing. I am currently still on the hunt for a job but I know my degree will be a large help. Long-term I would love to move back to Wisconsin and enjoy the outdoors.
What were the most valuable and/or meaningful experiences you had in CALS?
My study abroad experience in Bangkok, Thailand was one of the best experiences of my life. It was a unique experience where I got to experience many different cultures, and work at a university with an amazing group of PhD students. It taught me so much not only about science, but about life outside the US. It was amazing and I still keep in contact with my labmates to this day.
When you think about your time here as a student, what are you proud of?
Every student put in tons of hours to get their degree. We all put in those sleepless nights, and sacrificed something to earn this degree. We could have done something different, but instead we went above and beyond to earn a degree from an amazing institution like UW–Madison. Getting a degree here is hard, yet we got it done.
Do you have any advice you’d like to share with CALS students?
All of your efforts are worth it. The fun times are really fun, and the not so fun times really aren’t good. But in the end, it is all worth it. Cherish every moment and take advantage of the opportunity to go to UW–Madison. “To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice the gift.” (Steve Prefontaine)
What do you like most about being a CALS student?
I really like the community that CALS has. Every professor that I have had is willing to meet and talk about whatever you want to talk about. Even outside office hours, getting in contact with anyone is very easy. The professors in CALS care about our studies.
If you had to eat one Babcock ice cream flavor for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Probably Mnookie Dough Ice Cream because I love the huge chunks of cookie dough. I think the combination is fantastic, and I think it never gets old.
What’s your favorite thing about the city of Madison?
My favorite thing about Madison is how the city revolves around the campus. Everyone has a connection to the university. When you are talking to someone in Madison, there is never a negative thing to say about campus. Madison is one big happy city that combines cultures from all over the world.