Logan Griffin is “arching” towards success. The Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences senior from Lawrenceville will graduate from UGA and the College of Pharmacy on May 9. His most recent award underscores his collegiate achievements.
Griffin recently received the Alan J. Jaworski Science Award in Life Sciences from the UGA Morehead Honors College, where he is a resident student. Created to honor the late Dr. Alan Jaworski, a renowned professor of botany at UGA, the award is presented to a student who exemplifies excellence in the life sciences discipline.
However, academics is not Griffin’s only passion at UGA. His favorite university engagement has been his involvement with the prestigious Arch Society, an organization of UGA students who humbly serve the university as official hosts and goodwill ambassadors. To be selected for the Arch Society is the pinnacle of student recognitions.
Griffin reflected on his recent award, his time at UGA, the College of Pharmacy, and what lies ahead on his academic, career, and personal journeys.
In your opinion, what made you eligible and worthy of this award?
Quite frankly, I was rather surprised when I received this award. It is a great honor, and I was not expecting anything like this to occur. One thing which may have made me eligible is my involvement with the Arch Society, an organization of students who humbly serve the university as official hosts and goodwill ambassadors. Through my service in the Arch Society, I’ve had the opportunity to give back to UGA in various ways, which has been such a rewarding experience. I also was a CURO summer fellow with the Honors College in 2024. The summer fellowship program is designed to financially support undergraduate researchers while also working to build a stronger community of researchers on campus through various workshops, development events, and ultimately, a summer symposium to wrap up the program.
Why did you select BSPS as your major?
I am a pre-med student and initially chose BSPS as my major because its clinical relevance intrigued me. I have enjoyed my time throughout this program and learned concepts that will serve me well in my future medical career. I am especially excited for the future of the program for incoming students pursuing clinical professions, since the new biomedical track should make it even more tailored to their interests and career goals.
Who were your mentors while at UGA?
Dr. Jason Zastre has been my research mentor for the past two years. He has helped to guide me in my work in the lab, and I appreciate him allowing me to get into the field of research. I will continue my work with Dr. Zastre during my next year as a master’s student in the Double Dawg program. Dr. Rekhi also has been a great mentor throughout my time in the BSPS program. He is always willing to work and guide me on the best ways to achieve my goals. I truly appreciate everyone’s support.
What extracurriculars were you involved in at UGA and the College?
I was involved in a handful of extracurriculars at UGA. One commitment I have been involved with since coming here is the Honors College, which has been a wonderful experience. I feel as though being an honors student has enhanced my time on campus through perks such as priority registration and the smaller community the Honors College offers.
I was involved in UGA Friends of MSF for two years, an organization which works to support the larger global mission of Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders). The organization conducts service events around the local Athens community as well as fundraisers to support underserved communities.
Finally, as I mentioned previously, I am a member of the UGA Arch Society. The Arch Society has been my favorite, and likely the most meaningful experience I have had as a student. It is so amazing to have to serve and give back to the university that gives so much to its students. My fellow students who are involved in this group are truly exceptional, and the bond we have formed through service is something remarkable. I would highly recommend anyone who enjoys service-based work to investigate becoming a member of the Arch Society. My time in Arch will always stand out as a highlight of being a UGA student.
What are your post-graduation plans?
Immediately after graduation, I will pursue a master’s degree in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences through the Double Dawgs program. My ultimate career goal is to be a physician for the United States Military, and I will apply for medical school in the next cycle.
How do you achieve work-life balance?
As a college student, work-life balance is a challenge, and it is admittedly something I am not the best at. My favorite ways to spend quality time is with my lovely fiancée, Katie, and our dog, Archie.
