91PORN

Meet Our Majors

Meet some of our biology majors.

Maggie Schaffzin
Clara Neville

Dylan Abramyan
Katie Vyhnal

Maggie Schaffzin

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Major: biology; minor: Spanish

What was your motivation to major in biology?
The pivotal moment that motivated me to major in biology occurred during my first scuba dive at The Island School in Eleuthera, Bahamas in the spring of 2020. I witnessed both vibrant and decayed coral reefs, which ignited a passion in me to work towards conserving these ecosystems. Seeing coral in both its thriving and decaying forms fueled my desire to study marine biology and contribute to efforts aimed at preserving coral reefs for future generations. At Oxy, my work has been primarily surrounding coral reef ecosystems, especially the impacts of climate change on their health and distribution.

Can you describe your working relationships with biology professors? Are there any standout classes you’ve taken?
At 91PORN, I have developed strong working relationships with biology professors, particularly with Prof. Stubler and Prof. Pondella in the Vantuna Research Group (VRG). My professors have been instrumental in supporting my research on soft coral distribution in the Southern California Bight, guiding my independent projects and encouraging my scientific curiosity. One standout class was Biological Oceanography with Prof. Stubler—the interconnectedness between marine organisms and large-scale oceanic systems surprised me.

The opportunity to work across disciplines has broadened my understanding of scientific research and its real-world implications, preparing me to tackle complex environmental challenges like coral reef conservation on a global scale.

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy or elsewhere?
Yes, I have actively participated in student research both at 91PORN and abroad. As a research fellow with the Vantuna Research Group, I conducted a 10-week independent project on soft coral distribution, analyzing the habitat characteristics that drive their presence in LA County, conducting weekly scientific diving surveys with the VRG across the Southern California Bight. This project led to further questions, which I am exploring in my senior honors project, where I am investigating gorgonian distribution in the entire Southern California region. Additionally, my experience as a Richter Scholar with Dr. Stubler in Jamaica, conducting fieldwork on her long-term coral reef succession monitoring, also contributed to my understanding of coral reef monitoring and allowed me to collaborate with scientists globally.

Did you study abroad? How did it complement and/or enhance your major course of study?
Yes, I studied abroad in Granada, Spain, where I lived with a local family and immersed myself in the culture. While this study abroad opportunity was not a biology-focused program, this experience enhanced my adaptability and deepened my understanding of global environmental issues. It also reinforced my passion for studying ecosystems in different regions, complementing my biology major by allowing me to engage with diverse scientific perspectives and communities, which has been crucial in my ongoing research in marine science.

What are your ambitions post-Oxy and how has the liberal arts approach helped to shape these ambitions?
After graduating from 91PORN, my ambition is to pursue a PhD in reef ecosystem dynamics. The liberal arts approach at Oxy has been instrumental in shaping this goal by fostering critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a strong foundation in both the sciences and humanities. The opportunity to work across disciplines has broadened my understanding of scientific research and its real-world implications, preparing me to tackle complex environmental challenges like coral reef conservation on a global scale.

Clara Neville ’25

Hometown: Seattle, WA
Major: biology, cellular and molecular concentration

Can you describe your working relationships with biology professors? Are there any standout classes you’ve taken?

All of the biology faculty are fantastic, and they make a strong effort to foster personal relationships with their students. Attending office hours and asking professors about their research and/or their path to working at Oxy is a great way to strengthen those relationships. Some of my favorite classes have been Cell Biology with Prof. Okumura and Neurobiology with Prof. Thompson. These classes have continued to foster my love and curiosity for cellular processes, and also sparked a new passion for neuroscience that I am keen on continuing to explore!

If you’re going to do STEM anywhere, do it at Oxy where the class sizes are small and the professors are there to support you individually—you couldn’t find a more encouraging environment!

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy?

I started working in Prof. Okumura’s at the beginning of my junior year, and have continued throughout my time at Oxy. I also worked in the lab over the summer through the URC Summer Research Program, where I continued my research on how Group A Streptococcus (Strep Throat) evades the immune system. These experiences have been incredible, as they have given me really valuable lab experience and skills that will be incredibly beneficial after Oxy. Not only have these experiences given me hands-on lab skills, but they have also taught me how to both formulate and conduct a research project, and communicate my research to a wider audience, which are all invaluable experiences to have under my belt for graduate school! Doing research at Oxy has drastically enhanced my education and overall experience at Oxy, and I could not recommend it enough to incoming bio majors—reach out to professors whose research interests you, they are always happy to talk!

Do you have any advice for a student considering a major in biology?

My biggest piece of advice is to talk to your professors! It can feel intimidating at first, but they are all just people who are excited to share their knowledge and passion for science with other passionate scientists, and help their students succeed at learning. Establishing relationships will make the Oxy biology experience that much more fun and rewarding, and these connections can last a lifetime and be invaluable for life post-Oxy, such as for jobs and graduate school applications. The professors also have great advice on all the different paths that are available after Oxy, and have such a wealth of knowledge that biology students should absolutely take advantage of. If you’re going to do STEM anywhere, do it at Oxy where the class sizes are small and the professors are there to support you individually—you couldn’t find a more encouraging yet still stimulating and challenging environment!

Dylan Abramyan

Hometown: Glendale, CA
Major: biology

What do you find most compelling about studying biology?

I enjoy learning about the explanations behind how living organisms function and how life is sustained. Biology is interesting because it allows me to break down natural processes and make sense of phenomena in the context of evolution.

What are your ambitions post-Oxy and how has the liberal arts approach helped to shape these ambitions?

After Oxy, I plan to attend medical school and work as a physician. The liberal arts approach has given a breadth to my college education that I believe will help me better connect with my future patients and colleagues.

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy or elsewhere?

I’ve been researching in Prof. Thompson’s neurobiology lab for the past two years. I can confidently say that this experience has significantly influenced my passion for scientific discovery, which I hope to carry into my career.

Katie Vyhnal

Hometown: Ojai, CA
Major: biology; minor: Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy or elsewhere? Or, if applicable, can you describe your senior comps project?

I’ve been a part of Prof. Goffredi’s since my sophomore year, and it has been by far the most rewarding, expansive, and significant experience of my time at Oxy. My main projects relate to tropical sap-sucking insects and their bacterial symbionts, and through these projects I’ve learned many foundational lab techniques. Being part of the lab has also improved my science communication skills and critical analysis of scientific literature. Involvement in research afforded me the opportunity to apply to travel with Oxy biology professors to the La Selva Biological Research Station in Costa Rica, where I absolutely fell in love with tropical ecology. Prof. Goffredi has had an immeasurable impact on my genesis as a biologist; her mentorship has deeply influenced my trajectory in science. Having the dual experience of lab and field research has shaped my interests and aspirations for continued pursuit in biology.

Prof. Goffredi has had an immeasurable impact on my genesis as a biologist; her mentorship has deeply influenced my trajectory in science.

Did you study abroad? How did it complement and/or enhance your major course of study?

I studied abroad in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands for my junior fall semester. I enrolled in the marine biology section of my program, which gave me lots of interactive field experience through SCUBA, snorkeling, boat excursions, and baby shark population surveys(!). We also spent a week at a research station in the Amazon, fishing in the rivers and hiking in the jungle, learning about rainforest and freshwater ecosystems. My time abroad was a wonderful way to explore another domain of biology, as I'm not a marine biologist at heart, and I got to meet so many lovely people and see so many beautiful places. It definitely enhanced my college education by giving me an even greater appreciation for not just science and research but also for our environment and natural systems.

Do you have any advice for a student considering a major in biology?

The advice I would give to any student considering a major in biology would be to talk with your professors. As Oxy students we have the unique advantage of actual face-time with professors thanks to our small student body, so definitely go to office hours and talk to your professors! I promise they are not scary.

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To see more Meet Our Majors profiles, visit the main page.

Biology Alumni

Theo Bortz
Alana Pizarro
Joseph Shiina
Julissa Larios

Alejandra Herrera
Cole Ivie
Anahy Lizarraga

Theo Bortz

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Major: biology; minor: neuroscience

What was your motivation to major in Biology?

From a young age, I have been fascinated by the cellular and molecular underpinnings of biological processes. I pictured an undiscovered, untouched world that felt as new and mysterious as the cosmos. When it was time to choose my major, I knew it needed to be something that would be both intellectually engaging and appropriate for my future medical school endeavors. Biology felt like the obvious choice!

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy?

Participating in research has been a significant part of my undergraduate career, and is one of the standout reasons why I chose to come to Oxy. I started out doing research in inorganic chemistry with Professor Despagnet-Ayoub. I then shadowed neuroscience research in Professor Thompson’s lab, followed by my current position conducting an independent research project in the bacteriology lab with Professor Okumura.

Participating in research has been a significant part of my undergraduate career, and is one of the standout reasons why I chose to come to Oxy.

What are your ambitions post-Oxy and how has the liberal arts approach helped to shape these ambitions?

The liberal arts approach has helped me develop as a pre-med student by providing a multidisciplinary approach to STEM. It has made me realize that scientists do not exist within a vacuum; we need to develop a balanced understanding of how the world works—beyond what happens in the lab. After graduating from Oxy, I intend on taking a two-year break to work as a clinical research coordinator at a hospital. Through a program like this, I hope to enrich my path to medical school by gaining the necessary clinical insight and research experience.

Do you have any advice for a student considering a major in biology?

Don’t be afraid to pursue your intellectual curiosities outside of biology. Consider taking classes in history, studio art, religion, geology, language, film—or whatever interests you. Take advantage of your liberal arts education! I guarantee it will make you a more well-rounded scientist and human being.

What is the “vibe” of the biology department?

The biology department seeks to foster a supportive vibe for all its members. I have developed such strong relationships with my professors and peers, and I know I can truly rely on them as part of my support network at Oxy.

Alana Pizarro

Hometown: Pasadena, CA
Major: biology (pre-veterinary)

What was your motivation to major in biology?

I chose to major in biology because of my interest and investment in animals and the environment. After a couple years of sampling classes and feeling unsure about what major to choose, I accepted an internship at a wildlife rehabilitation hospital. This work was the motivation I needed to realize that a future in the field of animal welfare/research, conservation and environment was what I wanted to pursue.

Can you describe your working relationships with biology professors? Are there any standout classes you’ve taken?

Professors in the biology department are the absolute best. Every single bio professor has been kind, considerate, thoughtful, helpful and so much more. Especially as I’ve gotten into some of the higher-level bio courses, I’ve found that spending time with my professors in class or in the lab is always a comfortable experience. There have been so many standout classes/professors: “General Zoology” with Professor Goffredi, “Biostatistics” with Professor Zellmer and “Microbial Pathogenesis” with Professor Okumura, to name a few. My favorite biology course has without a doubt been “Avian Biology” with Professor McCormack, which helped me realize a passion for ornithology and birding that I know I will carry with me for the rest of life.

The fact that Oxy is not a “research institution” is actually a huge benefit for you. The opportunities saved for graduate students and postdocs at larger universities are available to you here.

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy?

I work and conduct research at the Moore Lab of Zoology with Professor McCormack. I am so grateful for this experience. It’s allowed me to learn about natural history museum curation/management and specimen preparation and at the same time exposed me to the world of evolutionary and ornithological research. My senior comps project focuses on a hybrid zone on the Western coast of Mexico of Magpie-Jays of the genus Calocitta. I use both historical (museum specimens) and modern (iNaturalist sightings) data to measure the distribution of White- and Black-throated Magpie-Jays down the coast and to assess any movement of their hybrid zone over time.

What are your ambitions post-Oxy and how has the liberal arts approach helped to shape these ambitions?

Pursuing a STEM education at a liberal arts college has been extremely grounding. It has helped me understand the intersectionality of all disciplines within and outside of STEM. Because of this, I would love to get some experience as a working biologist for some time after graduation. After a few years of work, I expect the combination of my liberal arts education and work experience will help me with applications to graduate or veterinary school.

Do you have any advice for a student considering a major in biology?

Sample around as much as you can! It’s important to expose yourself to both a range of courses but also to meet as many of the faculty as possible. You should also know that this major is quite lab-heavy. Don’t neglect labs! They are often the key to really understanding concepts presented in lectures. Lastly, understand that the fact that Oxy is not a “research institution” is actually a huge benefit for you. All of the biology faculty run stellar research labs that are populated by undergrads. The opportunities saved for graduate students and postdocs at larger universities are available to you here at Oxy. Learn about your professors’ research and reach out to them if you are at all interested in their work!

Joseph Shiina

Hometown: Osaka, Japan
Majors: biology

Can you describe your working relationships with biology professors? Are there any standout classes you’ve taken?

All of my professors have been extremely helpful with regards to preparing me for post-undergrad. Whenever I am seeking advice for my research, I consult professors that can provide answers to questions that are specific to their specialty. Guidance from multiple professors has helped me plan my career and consider all of the opportunities that may suit my ambitions after I graduate. My favorite class I have taken at Oxy was “Plant Form and Function” taught by Dr. Gretchen North, because plants are awesome. Another course I highly recommend taking is “Broader Impacts of Biology” taught by Dr. Amanda Zellmer, as it helped me understand the kinds of changes a scientist can make in society beyond the advancement of knowledge in STEM.

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy?

I participated in the Summer Research Program at Oxy for two years. SRP provided me the opportunity to experience what it’s like to carry out a fully independent research project, from designing the experiment to presenting the results at a conference. My research has been focused on how plants cope with various stress conditions. During the two summers, I worked on identifying whether the use of distinct photosynthetic pathways affect a plant’s heat and drought tolerance. Currently, I am studying how plants communicate via Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) for my senior comps project. Certain plants emit VOCs in response to insect herbivory, which can then be perceived by unharmed neighboring plants, eliciting defense responses to prepare for an attack. A better understanding of such defense strategies could yield alternative agricultural practices that reduce the use of pesticides.

The liberal arts approach helped me reflect on the broader impacts of science and how scientists can bring about social change through outreach.

What do you find most compelling about studying biology?

The most compelling part about studying biology is the way it changes your outlook on the environment we live in. Each time we learn something new about an organism, our perception and sense of appreciation for that organism changes. The knowledge we gain about the way species are interlinked guides our own identity and how we as a species are related to life around us.

What are your ambitions post-Oxy and how has the liberal arts approach helped to shape these ambitions?

My current career goal is to become a biology professor at a college due to my combined interest in research and teaching. The liberal arts approach helped me reflect on the broader impacts of science and how scientists can bring about social change through outreach. My mission is to contribute to advancing knowledge in biology through research in addition to bridging the gap that exists between scientists and the general public through education.

Do you have any advice for a student considering a major in biology?

Join a lab as soon as you find a professor you would like to work with. People tend to overlook the benefits of joining a lab apart from the experiences you gain from the lab activities. It gave me the chance to form closer relationships with professors and upperclassmen who provided me guidance throughout my years at Oxy. I had access to more information about opportunities that are available outside of Oxy, including internships, scholarships and science conferences. Joining a lab early on will also make it possible to switch labs and work with multiple professors while at Oxy.

Julissa Larios

Hometown: East Los Angeles, CA and Jalisco, Mexico
Major: biology

What was your motivation to major in biology?

As a first-generation college student that started out as pre-med, I wanted to major in biology because I felt like it would provide me with the experiences that would prepare me for medical school while giving me the opportunity to learn more about other aspects of biology as a whole. When I declared my major at the end of sophomore year, I was no longer pre-med but I remained in biology because of classes like “Zoology,” “Cell Biology” and “Histology” that helped me discover biology in a new light and led me to see a new research-based career path in the sciences that felt like a better fit for me.

Can you describe your working relationships with Biology professors? Are there any standout classes you’ve taken?

The professors in the biology department are all welcoming and supportive. They push me to think critically and carefully through labs, classes, field trips and research. After going to La Selva Biological Research Station in Costa Rica with Professors Goffredi, Braker and North, they became important mentors for me. I feel like I can always go to them to talk about classes, research or just to check in. My favorite classes overall have been “Zoology,” “Cell Biology,” “Flora of Southern California,” “Histology” and “Microbial Pathogenesis.”

My time at Oxy has led me to think critically about social justice, and I hope to work towards making science more accessible for both the next generation of scientists and the general public.

Have you taken part in any student research opportunities at Oxy or elsewhere?

I have done research with Professor Goffredi in the Symbiosis lab since the second half of my first year. In this lab, I have explored the animal-bacterial partnerships of deep-sea crabs, stink bugs and now grunion parasites! In addition to doing research with Professor Goffredi, I interned for the Organization of Tropical Studies this past year, where I created accessible science content with Professor Braker. Outside of Oxy, I participated in the National Summer Undergraduate Research Project (NSURP) this summer, where I researched the microbiome of eelgrass. I found out about this opportunity thanks to an Oxy alum that encouraged me to apply!

What are your ambitions post-Oxy and how has the liberal arts approach helped to shape these ambitions?

I am in the process of looking for and applying to research fellowships and post baccalaureate programs. After taking a gap year, I want to apply to biology Ph.D. programs so I can one day lead my own lab. The liberal arts education I have received at Oxy has helped me develop as a scientist, pushing me to consider my intentions as I continue in STEM. My time at Oxy has led me to think critically about social justice, and I hope to work towards making science more accessible for both the next generation of scientists and the general public.

Do you have any advice for a student considering a major in biology?

To any students considering biology, I suggest you give the major a try. I know that entering STEM can be daunting at times, but there are people willing to support you along the way. As you navigate the major, ask questions, go to office hours and ask for extra resources. I also advise you to join STEM organizations on campus and to get involved with research. The professors want to see you succeed and so do the students. YOU GOT THIS!

Alejandra Herrera

Hometown: Chicago, IL
Major: biology (cellular and molecular concentration)

Can you describe your working relationships with biology professors? Are there any standout classes you’ve taken?

Throughout my time at Oxy, I have developed many strong relationships with professors in the biology department. I especially want to thank the women in the biology department who inspire me and support my future endeavors. One of the classes I am grateful I took was “The Biology and Epidemiology of COVID-19,” which was co-taught by Dr. Roberta Pollock and Dr. Kim Shriner ’80. I had the unique opportunity to study the pandemic in real time through lectures and speaker events from experts in different fields. It was a memorable experience to see the intersection of science, public health and social justice, and hear about how collaboration addresses our unique