Vanessa Otamendi is finishing her final year at OSU as a public health and psychology major. Looking to tie her interest in social interactions with a love of science, Otamendi has been pursuing both at OSU. She has been involved in the Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), the Sigma Delta Omega sorority, Adelante en Acción, the Memorial Union and precollege programs.
Q. What are three random things about you?
I do not like mayonnaise.
I enjoy playing League of Legends.
I have small thumbs.
Q. What advice would you give to a new OSU student?
I would research what your tuition pays for and know your resources around campus. It is important to build connections with other students and staff on campus.
Q. What Oregon State experience took you by surprise and why?
I think the amount of free food you can get on campus took me by surprise. It seems like there is always an organization that is supplying free food or activities for students. Even when there isn’t free food, Oregon State does a pretty good job of helping students who have food insecurities find resources.
Q. What do you like about living in Corvallis?
I really enjoy the small-city feel of Corvallis. It is in a perfect location because on the weekends taking a trip to the coast, back home or somewhere else for a crazy adventure is possible.
Q. What class have you enjoyed most at Oregon State?
My favorite class has been Comparative Cultures, because my teacher was fantastic and created a friendly learning environment. Depending on what we were covering she facilitated lecture from the book, but she also tried to invite different student groups to talk.
Q. Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major because I want to help people, whether in a medical setting or not, and I always enjoyed science. I knew about the College of Liberal Arts for the social aspect of helping people, and hard science classes for those who want to do more research or work. When I found out that public health was a major that included science and social aspects, I fell in love.
Q. How have your studies influenced you?
My studies have influenced me to reach out and learn about myself and the ways that I want to help people. Through public health, I learned there is not one set way of helping people. That is for the student to figure out. I have had so many opportunities to learn and grow through my studies, which I am thankful for.
Q. What activities have you been involved with at OSU?
I have been involved with Greek life, intramural sports, clubs, and work while at OSU. I played soccer with a team from my sorority, which was a lot of fun. I have worked with lots of great people on campus while working for precollege programs, the Women’s Center, and the Memorial Union. I have volunteered all over campus helping different organizations, as well as organizations in the community.
Q. What do you love about Oregon State?
I love how easy it was to adjust to campus. Being a first-generation college student, I found a program that tended to my needs as well as clubs and classes. There is literally something on campus for any type of person.
Q. Has your time at OSU changed the way you think?
Over time my thinking has really become more open and I have embraced my beliefs. Oregon State has great professors and forums that facilitate different topics that may be controversial.
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