Mike Andersen

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas

College/Major: Natural Sciences / Human Biology; Pathogenesis and Immunity

How many years have you been involved with the FIG Program and in what capacity?

All four years of college. I was in a FIG as a freshman, and I have been a mentor from sophomore till senior year.

Why is this program important to you?

Mainly because of all the people involved. I enjoy working with my advisor, Dr. Raney. The FIG is mostly important, though, because freshmen need extra support and guidance. I’ve been in their shoes just a few short years ago, so I’m able to contribute to the betterment of their college experience.

How has it helped you or changed your life in any way?

I wouldn’t be where I am today without the FIG program. I would never have met Dr. Raney or some of my best friends without the program. I wouldn’t have become a mentor and developed my communication, organizational and leadership skills. The FIG program has definitely shaped my college career for the best.

Describe one of your most memorable FIG moments.

I ran into two of my former FIG students just a few weeks ago. I remembered them from when I was a sophomore mentor, three years ago. They mentioned they were taking the MCATs in just three short weeks!! My little guys are growin’ up so fast! But, all in all, that’s what the FIG is all about; helping out the students and realizing the impacts you’ve made in their lives.

Describe the program in one word and explain why you chose that word.

Nurturing. The FIG program aims to better the college lives of the students involved; both the freshmen and the mentor.

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