After attending Hillyer for two years, Cowie went on to complete a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology at UHart. Today, he is in the second year of UHart’s Master’s of Science in Neuroscience program. “When I discovered what neuroscience was and realized that all of psychology—all of the complex theories and actions—can be translated into electrical and chemical signals, I became obsessed,” he says. Cowie is planning to graduate in May 2020 to begin work in a research department for a few years before pursuing his PhD.
Cowie is now an adjunct instructor of biology for Hillyer, teaching students in some of the same classrooms and labs where he studied. “I find the opportunity to teach others about biological concepts just as enjoyable and exciting as learning them for myself,” he noted.
“Much of the success I had during my undergrad, and which has continued into my graduate career, all started with one opportunity provided by Hillyer College,” he says. “Hillyer helped me discover my own strengths and build upon them. The amount of support I received and the number of doors Hillyer College opened surpassed any of my expectations for my academic experience in college. I will forever be grateful for opportunities Hillyer has provided me, and for ultimately changing my life for the better.”
In addition to his academic experience, Cowie has held various leadership positions and has been recognized for multiple achievements during his time at the University. As an undergrad, he worked for three years in Hillyer’s Tutoring Center to help students with coursework in biology, math, and English. He also served as a preceptor for Hillyer’s annual Summer Bridge program, and attended the Hillyer Honors in Hawai’i Experience during his sophomore year.
He credits his time as a Summer Bridge preceptor for leading him to become a resident assistant (RA) in the Office of Residential Life, and subsequently being offered the senior RA position. While now completing his graduate studies, Cowie serves as the graduate assistant (GA) for the Campus Activities Team (CAT).
When asked about what he would tell a first-year Hillyer student, he says, “Never let your past define your future.”
Chris Cowie, Adjunct instructor of biologyMuch of the success I had during my undergrad, and which has continued into my graduate career, all started with one opportunity provided by Hillyer College. Hillyer helped me discover my own strengths and build upon them. The amount of support I received and the number of doors Hillyer College opened surpassed any of my expectations for my academic experience in college. I will forever be grateful for opportunities Hillyer has provided me, and for ultimately changing my life for the better.