“Before I started high school, I knew that I wanted to go into the field of health care. It is a perfect combination of my passion for helping others and my passion for science,” she says.

The Biology major and Psychology and Chemistry minor saw a clear path forward. Having grown up in Greensboro, she knew about the Early College at Guilford, a high school program for gifted students, which could help her reach her goals.

“The rigorous academic curriculum and small class sizes drew me to Early College,” she says. “I loved the idea of being a full-time college student in my junior year of high school!”

Getting Ahead

Soon it became evident that Srinavya wanted to stay at Guilford. 

“When I started to take classes, I enjoyed being part of such a tight-knit community. Students are always the priority for faculty and staff at Guilford, which allows for a positive learning experience,” she explains. “By my senior year of high school, I knew that I wanted to continue my undergraduate education at Guilford.”

She stayed and completed her degree in just two years. She was also part of the Honors Program, which helped her prepare for the transition from college to professional school. And it allowed for research experience while completing her thesis. 

Srinavya’s thesis focused on determining the antimicrobial effects of a traditional Indian turmeric tonic (made with turmeric, coconut oil, and black pepper) and different concentrations of turmeric alone on the growth of Escherichia coli strain K12. 

“I was interested in completing my thesis on this topic because an increase in gut microbes with pro-inflammatory properties could cause a condition known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD),” she says. “Current treatments have a variety of negative side effects and are ineffective because IBD often recurs. However, turmeric has been shown to help with IBD symptoms.” 

In her research, she found that the tonic and its individual components did not have an antimicrobial effect, and higher concentrations of turmeric may allow for more effective antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli strain K12. She also found that the microbes present in turmeric may have weak antimicrobial properties.

Succeeding With Support

While Srinavya was completing her thesis, Biology professors Michele Malotky and Melanie Lee-Brown were there for her — as they had been throughout her time at Guilford. 

“They were with me every step of the way from starting undergrad to applying to professional school and completing my thesis research. There are no words to express how grateful I am for having the opportunity to work with Michele and Melanie throughout my undergraduate career,” Srinavya says. “They are both wonderful professors and allowed me to gain knowledge that will last a lifetime.”

Thanks to their support and Srinavya’s hard work, she is now studying to earn her Doctor of Optometry degree at the University of Alabama School of Optometry. While at Guilford she shadowed several optometrists and gained valuable insight into the profession. The Honors scholar was also a tutor and teaching assistant for Biology and Chemistry courses. 

She advises other Biology and science majors to continue to work hard and to follow their passion. “Set long-term goals and find motivation by reminding yourselves of these goals,” Srinavya says. “Completing a major in science is not easy, but remember that the professors at Guilford College focus on helping you become a successful student. Do not be afraid to ask for help!”

Her alma mater remains close to her heart. “My experiences at Guilford College have been nothing but the best,” Srinavya says. “I am so thankful for having the opportunity to be a part of the Guilford family. I hope my experiences will inspire others to discover their path there, too.”

To learn more about the Biology, Psychology, and Chemistry degrees at Guilford College, schedule your personalized visit to Guilford.