About Caroline Blaha
Kitty Hawk, N.C.
Coastal Environmental Science major | Biology minor
“My Flager experience was enriching, genuine, and a true journey.”
Women's Lacrosse, Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Flagler Hospital Student Worker, Undergraduate Researcher (molecular genetic research, CRISPR genetic modification)
Caroline's History-Making Moments
Describe your central passion(s) and how you hope to carry that into your post-grad plans:
I am passionate about helping others and learning. I plan to attend medical school to encompass both passions.
Briefly tell us the story of one stand-out memory from your time at Flagler that will always make you smile:
In my junior year genetics class, we used CRISPR gene editing to edit E. coli bacteria. This is the same genetic mutation ability used in designer babies. This always will make me smile because it's a once in a lifetime opportunity that I was able to accomplish as an undergraduate.
What academic resources, experiences, or mentors proved most valuable throughout your Flagler experience?
Dr. Terri Seron was a great academic advisor and professor who always taught me the importance of education and following your dreams. Through my work at Flagler Hospital, I had mentors outside of the college. These physicians taught me about the process of medical school and advised me throughout the application journey. Also, being on the lacrosse team I had the support and mentoring of my coaches and support of my teammates.
What is one piece of advice or lesson you learned about the college experience that you wis you could tell your freshman year self?
To be open minded and try everything. For me, this did not happen until later in my college career, but I am happy that I had the mindset switch.
Tell us about what you’re up to next! Any cool experiences, professional positions, or unique opportunities you have lined up after graduation?
I’m set to begin the post-baccalaureate program at The George Washington Medical School with intent to one day become a medical doctor.
Featured Undergraduate Research
As an undergraduate researcher, Caroline focused on molecular genetic research, and CRISPR genetic modification. She presented a winning capstone project and conjoining poster at Flagler’s 25th Science Symposium for Natural Sciences capstone projects titled, “Would you still love me if I was a worm? DNA barcoding reveals polychaetae biodiversity within intertidal ecosystems.”