Meet Mackenzie Black: Our June Leading Woman

Name: Mackenzie Black

Major: Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Medical Science & Human Biology

Hometown: Liberty, Missouri

What are your career/life goals?

I want to be a Physician Assistant and specialize in orthopedic surgery!

What is your favorite part about your major and why did you choose it?

Ever since I was little, I’ve always been interested in going into the medical field. I knew I wanted a major that was very science-oriented and would allow me to meet all of my required courses for graduate school. I’ve always had an interest in how the human body functions, so biology seemed like the perfect fit for me! My favorite part about my major is how although the courses can be very challenging, I enjoy what I am learning so I don’t mind putting in longer hours to prepare myself for exams.

You’re studying abroad in Spain this summer, can you tell us a little about what you’ve been doing the past few weeks and how this experience has affected you?

Studying abroad has truly been the best experience I have ever had. There’s something about immersing yourself into a completely new culture that does not speak the same language as you, and just learning to adapt and embrace this new world around you. When I first came here, I knew very little Spanish and since most of the people here in Sevilla only speak Spanish, I have become much more comfortable in attempting to communicate with them and learning from trial and error. I have loved every minute here in Sevilla, met so many amazing people, and have created so many wonderful memories that I know I will cherish forever.

What organizations or hobbies are you passionate about?

Besides Theta, I am a part of Camp Kesem, Tri-Beta Honors Biology Society, and MU Pre-PA club. I also work at the Missouri Orthopedic Institute as a CTA-C! I am passionate about these organizations because I love the personable relationships they allow me to make with others. Whether it is doing community service with other students who have similar goals as me, or building relationships with those I get the opportunity to help, I feel as though I am making one tiny positive impact at a time.

How have your experiences in Theta changed you?

Theta has surrounded me with the most amazing friends and best support system I could have asked for. Theta is full of girls who are ambitious, kind, strong-willed, selfless, hard working, high achieving, and proud to be themselves. One of my favorite things about Theta is how there is not a cookie cutter mold of what makes a person a Theta. Everyone has something that is incredible and unique about them, and there’s such a variety of interests amongst everyone. These people have made such a positive impact on my life and have given me many new perspectives to look at life from. I am so thankful to have found a community like this, because I truly believe my college experience would be so different without them.

What does Theta mean to you?

To me, Theta means embracing who you are and appreciating everyone else for their amazing qualities. These girls are my best friends who will push me to be my best self, boost my confidence, and allow me to understand what it means to love yourself. To me, Theta means passion. Everyone has something they are so passionate about, and I love how you can just see their faces light up when they are discussing it. Their passion is so contagious that it drives me to pursue what I love as well. But best of all, these girls will be your biggest fans and whole-heartedly support you and your own passions.

Do you have any advice for underclassmen?

I would advise any underclassman to try new things and get outside of their comfort zone! This period in our lives is such a significant time for personal growth, and you will never be able to grow without breaking yourself out of your bubble and putting yourself out there. My favorite memories are always the ones where I was a little nervous about doing something and did it anyway and had the best time in the end!

Do you have a specific favorite Theta memory?

Trying to come up with just one favorite Theta memory is difficult, but all of my favorite memories are spent with my favorite people. Living in the house with my 5-man roomies created memories full of constant laughs, dog piled cuddles, and so much love and support for each other. These people have changed my life for the better & I’m so thankful to call them my best friends.