Interviews with Rachel Hugenberg and Jacy Tran – Recipients of The Chu Scholarship

Rachel Hugenberg from Woodstock, Georgia, and Jacy Tran of Loganville, Georgia were both Chu Scholarship recipients this year. They provided insight into the value of their awards:


Rachel Hugenberg – Class of 2024

Rachel Hugenberg - Recipient of The Chu ScholarshipWhy did you choose the College of Pharmacy’s Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences program?

Throughout my life, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning about different areas of science. More specifically, when I started taking chemistry in high school, I was fascinated by the subject. Due to these interests, my teacher recommended that I investigate pharmaceutical programs at different universities. I believe that this program has been perfect for me, because it has combined my passions for service and research with chemistry and other sciences. I am so glad that I enrolled in the BS of Pharmaceutical Sciences program at UGA, and I am forever grateful for my professors and peers who have guided me along the way.

Why are you passionate about pharmaceutical sciences?

This career provides me with a way to help others in a scientific realm that I really enjoy. Through the recent pandemic, the importance of pharmaceutical sciences has been exemplified, and I am very passionate about working in a field that can help so many people. I hope to, one day, contribute to developing medications that can help others feel relief and enjoy life to the fullest.

What do you hope to accomplish after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to enter the STEM MBA program at UGA and receive my master’s degree. After receiving this degree, I aspire to work in a lab and aid in the drug discovery process for a pharmaceutical company.

How has the Chu Scholarship impacted your college experience?

This scholarship has provided me with a way to make my dreams become a reality, and I am eternally grateful for the generosity and kindness I have received. Because of this scholarship, I have been able to grow in academic, professional, and personal ways to better prepare me for my future career. I cannot express how thankful I am for this opportunity.

What is your most memorable experience at the College of Pharmacy?

Thus far, my most memorable experience is taking the pharmaceutical techniques lab course. Dr. Wided Missaoui has taught me so much about laboratory techniques, equipment, and procedures that have better prepared me for a laboratory position. I am grateful to have received her guidance and advice, and I look forward to taking another lab with her again this fall. My classmates and our teaching assistants have made this lab such a fun and memorable experience!


Jacy Tran – Class of 2023

Why did you choose the College of Pharmacy’s Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences program?

I am currently on the pre-med track, and I wanted to study a science that was different from the core sciences. The Pharmaceutical Sciences major deals a lot with the body and medicine, and I find this the most interesting and applicable to real life.

Why are you passionate about pharmaceutical sciences?

It is very applicable to life, as a lot revolves around medicine. Pharmaceutical Sciences is fundamental to many phenomena, and I find it very interesting and important to learn about it.

What do you hope to accomplish after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to work as a Medical Assistant in a specialty doctor’s office. I also will be applying to medical school this upcoming cycle, so my biggest goal is to get admitted into a medical school for fall 2024.

How did the Chu Scholarship impact your college experience?

This scholarship allowed me to purchase necessary books and tools for my learning, as well as fund the fees associated with attending UGA. It has provided me with support, for which I am grateful.

What is your most memorable experience at the College of Pharmacy?

My most memorable experiences at the College of Pharmacy came from my lab classes. For the curriculum, I was required to take lab courses designed to teach students about good manufacturing and documentation practices. Although these labs were long and tedious, I gained a lot of knowledge and friendships through these labs. For example, we had to work in small groups to produce a batch of tablets, and I found this very fulfilling and memorable.


For information on how to establish or donate to scholarships at the College, contact Gordon Thomas, Major Gifts Officer.


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