The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Corps are chosen to serve as representatives to all constituents of CAS and to create, promote and execute opportunities for academic and professional growth. These students represent a variety of departments from across CAS and will represent the College at events through interaction among current students, future students, parents, donors and alumni.
Throughout the year, we will be introducing new students representing the College in the 2023-24 academic year through a question and answer format. For more about the CAS Corps, visit: cas.appstate.edu/students/cas-corps.
Avery Hodgson
Year: Junior
Major: Biology (Cell/Molecular)
Hometown: Linwood, N.C.
Which clubs or organizations are you a member of?
Honors College
Health Professions Advising Peer Advisor
Mountaineer Medics
What research or coursework have you been most passionate about?
"I have been most passionate about my coursework within chemistry and biology, especially when it comes to learning the many different processes that cells perform."
Which location(s) do you hope to visit for an internship, a study abroad trip, a research experience, or just for fun?
"I hope to visit Australia and New Zealand to see their unique ecosystems and wildlife."
Where is your favorite place on campus and why?
"My favorite place on campus is the nature trails because I enjoy being out in nature, and it has always been a nice place for me to walk around at if I needed to take a break from work."
What is one of your favorite memories at Appalachian thus far?
"One of my favorite memories at App State was meeting new people and exploring the area around Boone during the first week of my freshman year."
What do you like about Boone and the surrounding community?
"I like the small-town environment of Boone and the wide variety of activities that there is to do in the surrounding areas. I also like that everyone that lives around here is usually really nice and welcoming."
What are your hobbies?
"Fly Fishing, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Ping Pong"
What is your favorite book, podcast, artist, and/or television show?
"My favorite television show is 'The Sopranos.'"
Tell us about one faculty or staff member that has made an impact on your life and how.
"One faculty member who has made an impact on my life is my Honors Advisor, Dr. Mark Venable. If I was ever thinking of making some kind of major decision, I would usually meet with Dr. Venable to discuss it. Dr. Venable's advice for some of my life-impacting decisions has helped steer me in a good direction toward my intended career goals."
What do you feel has been valuable in your education at Appalachian versus another institution?
"I feel that the professors being easily available has been very valuable in my education. I have had no issues trying to get in touch with professors. Being able to easily meet with professors during office hours has helped me better understand class material through individual discussions."
What do you hope to do after graduation?
"After graduation, I hope to go to medical school and become a physician."
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About the Department of Biology
The Department of Biology is a community of teacher-scholars, with faculty representing the full breadth of biological specializations — from molecular genetics to landscape/ecosystem ecology. The department seeks to produce graduates with sound scientific knowledge, the skills to create new knowledge, and the excitement and appreciation of scientific discovery. Learn more at https://biology.appstate.edu.
Compiled by Lauren Andersen
December 1, 2023
BOONE, N.C.
CAS Corps member Avery Hodgson is a junior biology major from Linwood. Photo by Lauren Andersen.
CAS Corps member Avery Hodgson is a junior biology major from Linwood. Photo by Lauren Andersen.