When Ava Sedensky decided to come to UConn, she knew she was coming to a big campus with a lot of students. But what surprised the Middlebury native was that with enough connections, Storrs can feel close-knit.
“I never felt like I did not belong at UConn because of the relationship our community has with one another,” she says.
Why did you choose UConn?
I chose UConn not only because I was born and raised in Connecticut, but because of its strong academic reputation. The School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences stood out to me for its rigorous curriculum, research opportunities, and emphasis on clinical excellence. I wanted a university that would challenge me academically while simultaneously giving me opportunities to grow personally, and UConn was the perfect fit.
What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?
I am a pharmacy student getting a Bachelor of Science in pharmacy studies. I was drawn to this field because I love science and in particular chemistry. I also wanted to do something that made an impact on other people’s lives. Pharmacy is a great career option to combine these two passions of mine by optimizing therapy and improving patient outcomes.
Did you have a favorite professor or class?
My favorite class has been UConn’s School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences psychiatry module. Being able to learn from professors with pharmaceutical chemistry backgrounds and clinical experience in one course was so interesting. I really enjoyed Kristin Waters’s input as a psychiatry pharmacist at Yale New Haven Health as well as Gregory Sartor, who has a vast background in substance use disorder research. Hearing real-world clinical applications alongside the scientific foundation made the material feel meaningful and impactful.
What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
One thing that surprised me about UConn was how strong the sense of community is, even at such a large university. Over time, I realized that with such a big student population, you make connections with students and staff that make it feel close-knit. Professors are approachable, classmates are collaborative, and there are so many friends to meet with similar interests as you. I never felt like I did not belong at UConn because of the relationship our community has with one another.
What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?
After graduation, I plan to continue to pursue my Doctorate of Pharmacy at UConn, where I will be able to not only further my education but partake in rotations of experiential rotations. These rotations will help me solidify what area of practice I want to pursue and gain hands-on skills that cannot be taught in the classroom.
How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?
UConn has prepared me by challenging me academically while also teaching me resilience, time management, and collaboration. The rigorous coursework, hands-on experiences, and exposure to clinical perspectives have given me confidence in my knowledge and decision-making abilities. It’s also taught me the lifelong skill of time management and work-life balance.
Any advice for incoming students?
Say yes to things, even if they’re out of your comfort zone. Join the club, introduce yourself to peers in your classes or dorm. I have met some of my best friends from going out of my comfort zone. Some of the best memories and biggest lessons learned came from outside of the classroom.
What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?
One thing that everyone should do during their time at UConn is take advantage of all the resources available. Whether it is research opportunities, student organizations, career services, basketball games, or campus events. The more you immerse yourself in the culture of UConn, the more rewarding your time here will be.
What will always make you think of UConn?
Some of the most hardworking and caring people I have met are the friends I’ve made at UConn. I know that I will have lifelong friendships after graduation, and I can’t thank UConn enough for that!
