University of Washington Biochemistry Major

Hi everyone! I'm a junior in high school, and I'm looking into the biochemistry major at the University of Washington. Can anyone share their experiences with the program, like class sizes and research opportunities available?

Hello! The University of Washington (UW) has a strong biochemistry program, and it's great to hear that you're considering it. Many students have found the program to be challenging yet rewarding, with excellent professors and plentiful opportunities for research.

In terms of class sizes, introductory and general chemistry courses tend to be larger, with more than 100 students in some cases, which is typical for science prerequisites. As you progress into more specialized biochemistry courses, class sizes become smaller, with anywhere from 20 to 50 students per class, allowing for more interaction with professors.

Research opportunities at UW are abundant, especially in the biochemistry department. As a large, public research university, collaboration across departments is encouraged, and numerous interdisciplinary research labs provide diverse experiences. Undergraduates have the opportunity to participate in research through independent study or the Undergraduate Research Program (URP), which provides resources to help you find a research position that aligns with your interests. Many biochemistry students find research positions in labs within the department, but some also investigate opportunities in related fields like molecular biology, microbiology, or even chemical engineering.

To increase your chances of securing a research position, it's important to build relationships with professors and attend any related events or seminars. Don't hesitate to reach out to faculty whose research interests you, as they are often more than happy to discuss their work and potentially consider undergraduates for positions in their labs.

Overall, the biochemistry program at the University of Washington offers a solid foundation in the field, as well as numerous research opportunities for undergraduates. Keep in mind that the program can be demanding, but with hard work and determination, students find it to be a rewarding and enriching experience. Good luck in your college search!