Student Profile
Vitals:
Name: Danielle Lombardi
Graduation Year: 2009
Hometown: Bronx, N.Y
Major: Biology
Weekend Activity: Ballet lessons
A conversation with Danielle Lombardi, a junior at Manhattanville College.
What made you decide to apply to Manhattanville?
"I have attended small schools throughout my academic career, so I was attracted to Manhattanville’s intimate community. As I was going to be a campus resident, this was very important to me."
Why did you choose to major in Biology?
"I have chosen to major in Biology and double minor in Chemistry and Psychology for a number of reasons. I have always had a natural affinity for the sciences, and what better way to fulfill this interest than by taking various courses in the subject. I hope to gain acceptance to dental school after graduation, where I can continue my education and serve the public as a medical professional. I believe that it is important to have a strong science background in order to be a successful dental student. However, I also chose to minor in Psychology because being a medical professional is much more than knowing an array of scientific facts. As a future dentist, I will be dealing with patients of all ages, cultures, races, and identities. Each individual will have unique needs that any biology or chemistry textbook cannot explain. I will not only be training to work with patients on a molecular level, I will also be dealing with patients on a social and emotional level. Psychology will help me to be sensitive to each and every person’s individual needs, fears, and concerns, and allow me to effectively communicate with my patients. Having an appreciation for humanity, strong communication skills and the respect of my patients are necessary for compliance and success in the dental profession."
What drew you to dentistry?
"The dentistry field is constantly changing and advancing. There are several different areas to learn about and specialize in. This allows many opportunities to provide a great service to patients which is fulfilling both professionally and personally. By applying technology in a practical setting, I can use science to directly help people on a daily basis. I feel it is important that any career I choose in the future have these qualities."
What do you like best about the Bio major?
"I think the Biology department is one of the smallest academic departments at Manhattanville. I have gotten to know all of my professors personally, and I can go to them whenever I need help or mentoring. Also, the students in the Biology department work together to motivate each other when we become bombarded with work or are having a difficult time understanding something. This is also true for the chemistry department."
Is there anything that you think would be useful for new Biology majors to know?
"For any students interested in going to professional school after graduation (whether it’s medical, dental, veterinary, etc.) meet with and speak to a professor in the biology or chemistry department as soon as possible. There are rigorous requirements that need to be fulfilled on a tight schedule, and you do not want to fall behind or have to attend school for an additional year."
Do you have a favorite class?
"My favorite classes so far have been Developmental Biology and Immunology."
Are you involved in extracurricular activities at Manhattanville?
"I am captain of the cheerleading team and President of Tri-Beta. I am also Executive Director of the Up 'til Dawn program at Manhattanville. I will be traveling to Tennessee in July for training to make the program more effective and to encourage the entire M-ville community to get involved. I am also taking part in the SMDEP (Summer Medical and Dental Education Program) at Columbia University this summer. It is a six week intensive program for college freshmen and sophomores that offers intensive and personalized medical and dental school preparation through academic enrichment courses, clinical experiences, and an array of seminars on various topics."
What other hobbies do you enjoy?
"I enjoy dancing. I have been taking ballet classes since I am in the first grade. Now I take classes when I have free time. I also LOVE to travel, and hope to travel all around the world."