‘Awe-inspiring’ Science
Student Snapshot: Leo Burchell ’27
Leo Burchell ’27 loves being a neuroscience major with a minor in psychology, but he also appreciates the power of poetry. At Dickinson, he doesn’t have to choose between these interests. He's taken a creative writing class and is involved with clubs related to science and neuroscience and also with the college's literary society and student-run poetry group. And as a Presidential Scholar, he enjoys meeting and interacting closely with college leaders, Dickinson's Alumni Council members and visiting scholars.
Hometown:
Jamison, Pennsylvania.
Major:
Neuroscience, with a minor in psychology.
Clubs and organizations:
Alpha Lambda Delta, BioBuddies, eXiled Poetry Society, Belles Lettres Literary Society and Neuroscience Club.
Honors/scholarships/awards:
Presidential Scholarship and First Year Chemistry Award.
Best thing about my Dickinson experience so far:
My favorite thing about my Dickinson experience so far is having endless opportunities to develop my interests. I came to Dickinson with passions for both neuroscience and poetry, and I was worried that I would have to give up my creative side to focus on my scientific side. However, alongside my chemistry, biology and psychology classes, I have taken a creative writing class. I'm also involved in both a neuroscience and a poetry club. The liberal-arts experience that Dickinson offers is highly valuable to me.
Best thing about my major:
The best thing about my major is how passionate my fellow neuroscience majors are. My classmates are eager to dissect sheep brains, delve into scientific studies and, most of all, help each other succeed. We’ve spent countless nights in the library, quizzing each other on brain structures and theories of psychology to prepare for upcoming tests.
On choosing Dickinson:
I chose to attend Dickinson because of how welcoming and kind each person at the school was toward me during my application process, whether it was during a virtual interview or on a student-led tour. I was also thrilled to be selected for the Presidential Scholarship and join a group of hardworking students. Through the scholarship, I have taken part in productive conversations with members of the administration, the Alumni Council and visiting scholars. In each conversation, I learned so much and felt that my ideas were truly valued.
Favorite class:
My favorite class experience so far was observing (and holding!) a human brain as part of PSYC125. My classmates and I compared the human brain’s structures to the sheep brains we had been studying throughout the semester. Being able to hold such a powerful, intricate organ was awe-inspiring, and it confirmed my love of neuroscience.
Most important thing I’ve learned so far:
Try everything you can while at Dickinson. Say yes to as many opportunities as you’re able to, while still allowing time for yourself. Being open to new experiences has allowed me to make incredible friends, discover a love of the gym, find new favorite restaurants in Carlisle and so much more.
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Published December 19, 2024