Brianna Franklin, a biology major from Richmond, Texas, is a defensive specialist on the Louisiana RaginӰר Cajuns volleyball team.
Although her love of volleyball was a large influence on her decision to attend UL Lafayette, it wasnӰרt her only reason.
ӰרI absolutely love everything about the academic side of attending this university,Ӱר Brianna said. ӰרProfessors are relatable and friendly and make learning fun.Ӱר
Brianna chose the biology program because it allowed her to follow her passions.
ӰרI chose biology because I absolutely love science, I have always known that,Ӱר she said. ӰרI also love helping others and being able to provide for others. Obtaining a degree in biology gives me the opportunity to do both in future career paths.Ӱר
BriannaӰרs passion for science has been strengthened through her classes, especially Biology 111, which she took with Dr. Phyllis Griffard.
ӰרShe really opened my eyes about the fact that biology is not just in a textbook, but itӰרs all around us all the time,Ӱר Brianna said. ӰרShe would bring in plants and different fungi from around campus to use during her lectures which really brought the learning to life."
"She also made me appreciate LouisianaӰרs unique ecosystems and their importance to our everyday lives.Ӱר
BriannaӰרs favorite thing about UL Lafayette is the family atmosphere.
ӰרThe hospitality of professors and fellow students makes studying here easy,Ӱר she said. ӰרProfessors genuinely care about your education.Ӱר
Brianna has truly enjoyed her experience with the biology department.
ӰרMy department is amazing because they are always willing to go the extra mile for students,Ӱר she said. ӰרNot only am I always being taken care of, but I am getting great hands-on and hands-off experience. The labs and research opportunities are endless along with the influx of knowledge from great professors.Ӱר
Brianna is confident the skills she is learning will help her succeed in her career.
ӰרAlthough I am only a sophomore here, I have already learned so much,Ӱר she said. ӰרI have gotten in-depth instructions on skills in the lab that will stay with me for the rest of my scientific career, like proper microscope usage and knowing how to properly centrifuge materials. I have gained more efficient study skills and organizational skills that I will need in my future.Ӱר
