Danielle Oliver
Class of 2008
Biology Major
 What does studying soil samples from throughout the U.S. for the growth of antibiotic-producing bacteria have to do with becoming a pharmacist? Ask Danielle Oliver, a senior biology major, and she will tell you everything.
Danielle, who plans on pursuing graduate studies in pharmacy, chose BC because of its strong biology department and its emphasis on research. "I wanted to go to a school that fostered a great learning environment," says Oliver, "and a place where I could expand my learning beyond the classroom."
Danielle was required to do the soil sample research project for a microbiology class. "It was an engaging experience, she says, "where I learned a lot from the hands-on experience." The professors were also very helpful throughout the process. According to Danielle, her most challenging lab was determining what two bacteria were in a sample provided by the professor. Through the experience, she learned to complete many of the tests that are performed on television shows such as "CSI."
Through labs in anatomy, Danielle was able to witness her first cadaver, where she learned many of the parts of the body. "This was a once in a lifetime experience," she says. "Although it was really gross at times, it was still fun." For Danielle, the lecture sessions are also fun because the class not only discusses basic anatomy, but also learns about diseases affecting various parts of the body.
When not in the biology lab, Danielle enjoys being involved in service-learning and community service projects. As a young child, her family instilled in her the belief that doing something for the community is important. BC has challenged her to broaden her volunteering outside her normal areas of service.
During one of her first days as a freshman at BC, she went with a group of students "Into the Streets" where they volunteered with local organizations. Danielle's group helped the Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) design tee-shirts. "Just getting to talk to people in situations like that," says Danielle, "was a rewarding experience in itself." As a senior, she served as an orientation leader and took a group of freshmen "Into the Streets" mulching one of the local parks for a Labor Day celebration.
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