Disclaimer: Carolina Elgarresta is the author’s sister.
In high school, many of us feel the pressure to decide what we want to do with our lives. But even college seniors are still figuring it out. Carolina Elgarresta ’21 is a senior majoring in genetics at Clemson University. Currently, she is preparing to graduate and begin her new journey in the field of embryology.
Inspired by her father, a radiologist, Elgarresta always knew she wanted to pursue something in medicine, but her exact path wasn’t always clear. Originally, she was interested in genetics and research, but deciding on a definite plan after graduation was a bit of a challenge. “It was exciting, but figuring everything out was definitely stressful,” she said. To guide her in the process, she participated in research studies and worked at a fertility clinic. Eventually, Elgarresta decided to pursue embryology. She wants to help patients with in vitro fertilization (IVF).
However, even after making that decision, Elgarresta had to choose a program. “You don’t just apply to one school and become an embryologist,” she said. “I had to network, do research and talk to professionals in the field.” After exploring many options, she chose to enter an embryologist certification program that will train her to become a junior embryologist. She hopes to eventually earn a master’s degree and possibly a Ph.D. in reproductive sciences.
“In five years, I want to be a senior embryologist at a fertility clinic helping people with infertility,” she said.
Now, Elgarresta reflects on her experience in college and thinks about what she will miss and what she would have done differently. Looking back, Elgarresta wishes she had taken her freshman year more seriously. Still, she’s grateful for her experience and the people she met. “College only gets harder, and I had to work hard to make up for those early classes,” she said.
As her graduation approaches, she’s feeling both excited and sentimental about the next journey of her life. “I came to Clemson not knowing anyone from Miami,” she said. “Now I’m leaving with amazing friends who shaped who I am, and I’m really going to miss living in a college town and being two minutes away from all my best friends,”.
But there’s one thing she’s definitely ready to leave behind. “Schoolwork,” she said.
Her advice to high schoolers and college freshmen? Be open to change, get involved and don’t worry if you haven’t figured everything out.
“Your major doesn’t define you,” she said. “You’ll learn more about yourself just by trying new things.” And when it comes to life after graduation, she hopes others remember that it’s okay to take your time. “Not everything works out the way you planned,” she said, “but sometimes that’s exactly what makes the journey worth it.”
