Case File: HaeNa Waechter

The following are excerpts taken from transcripts of a conversation with a Carnegie Mellon student.

Name: HaeNa Waechter Year: Senior Major/Minor: Biological Sciences/Medical Anthropology Hometown: Brooklyn, NY Why Carnegie Mellon? I chose Carnegie Mellon because it’s an urban campus within a suburban community. I really liked how every college is strong in what they do. So if I changed majors I would still be in a strong department. It’s also a pretty campus. I was also impressed with Kiltie Band and became a member. In Kiltie Band we ALL wear kilts. This is the only place I know where you can wear a kilt and no one will look at you funny. How did you choose your major? I declared my major my junior year. My medical anthropology major is self-defined, I began writing it my sophomore year. I have always loved Biology and history. The self-defined major allowed me to combine my interests. Do you live on- or off-campus? I live off-campus in Webster Hall. I love it there. We have our independence but Carnegie Mellon still takes care of any problems we may have, so it’s like a safety net. What do you do for fun during the week, in addition to your homework? I like to go out to the movies, eat, go out in the evenings. I also like to relax and do nothing. I also really enjoy going to the ballet or the symphony – student priced tickets are great! Are you involved in any campus organizations? I play trumpet in the Kiltie band which I really enjoy. It’s a big stress reliever. What is your favorite class? Please describe. I loved my seminar class, “Hyphenated Americans and the Stories they tell”. It was awesome. My Professor held the class at her house and she always had great conversations and gave us goodies. Are you planning to work on any research/internships? I am currently finishing up my senior honors thesis on the marginalization of needle exchange Programs, It’s been a great way for me to perform anthropological field work and historical research. What are your plans after graduation? I’m taking 1-2 years off from school while I decide between medical school and graduate school. I’ll be looking for a job in research or public health until then. What is your favorite memory of Carnegie Mellon, so far? You gotta love Carnival Weekend. Playing for a full four days with your friends is the best ever! Are there any fun traditions that you want future Carnegie Mellon students to follow? Painting the fence! It’s so much fun, everyone has to do it. If there was one thing you could tell a prospective student about Carnegie Mellon, what would it be? If you want to work hard and play hard, Carnegie Mellon is perfect for you!