1. You were chosen as a Regents Scholar based on your academic excellence. What motivates you to excel academically?
Ruf:
I am motivated to excel academically because I've always loved the feeling of accomplishment I get when I do my best and achieve my goals. I like to challenge myself to see how much better I can be and how much more I can accomplish. I also enjoy learning new things and gaining new insights. In addition, I feel it’s important to keep all my options open at this point, and one way I do that is by doing well in school.
2. Why did you choose to attend UC San Diego?
Ruf: At first I was looking at UCSD as a potential school because of its strong science program. I've always known I wanted to major in the sciences, and it was important to me to be at a school where I knew I would get a good science education. Also, I liked that UCSD is on the forefront of so many different areas of research. I knew that this would improve my education in that I would learn the newest information.
Two specific programs though are what really drew me to San Diego. First was the Medical Scholars Program. Second was the Regents Scholars Research Initiative. I knew it was a one-of-a-kind opportunity to be able to start doing research as a first-quarter freshman. None of the other schools - the Ivy Leagues, UCLA, UC Berkeley - could offer me this kind of opportunity.
3. What attracted you to the UCSD Medical Scholars program?
Ruf: Becoming a doctor has always been my goal. I even studied anatomy books in elementary school.Through this program, I have already been conditionally accepted to the UCSD School of Medicine providing I meet all the provisions (a minimum grade-point average, prerequisite classes, etc.) However, I will not have to apply to the school nor take any MCATs. Not only will this program relieve a lot of stress during my undergraduate years, but it will also allow me to pursue many things I may not have had time for otherwise, like studying abroad and double majoring.
4. What type of research interests you?
Ruf: I'm interested in any type of biomedical research or clinical research. I find the human body and its processes so amazing. I love the idea of being able to learn more about them. The research I'm participating in right now involves using ultrasound to try to help break up blood clots. Its potential applications for stroke patients are very exciting and I enjoy learning about all the anatomical processes behind blood clotting.
5. How has the transition been, moving to San Diego, moving into the dorm and starting classes?
Ruf: The transition has actually been harder than I expected. I pictured immediately being independent and leading a glamorous college life. However, I did have to struggle with homesickness and trying to figure things out here all by myself. Classes have definitely provided me with a challenge, but I'm enjoying trying to meet that challenge (minus the long nights). Each day I'm here, I enjoy myself more, and find one more reason why I'm glad I came here.
6. Do you have any advice for high school seniors who may consider applying to UC San Diego?
Ruf: I would advise them to apply, even if they don't really like the school, or think they'll never end up here. When I applied, I hated the campus and considered the school as a back up. However, after I did more research, I realized that for my goals, this really was the best place for me, and I ended up turning down what I thought was my first choice. If I hadn't applied because of my initial feelings, I never would've had all the opportunities provided at this school.
7. What are you looking forward to most in the next year? In the next few years?
Ruf:
I'm most looking forward to just establishing my life here - making new friends, joining clubs, doing well in classes, participating in research... I'm going to be here for eight years, so I want to make sure I really make a "home" for myself. I'm also very much looking forward to studying abroad at some point in the future. This has also been a long-term goal of mine.
8. Over the years, you’ve participated in a variety of extracurricular activities from ballet and martial arts to music and journalism. Which interests will you continue to pursue while at UC San Diego?
Ruf: It is very important to me to continue dancing, playing piano and volunteering. I would like to be able to play piano in the Muir Musical, as playing in musicals was one of my favorite things in high school. I'm not sure what kind of volunteering I'll do, but I would love to get involved in some type of organization that provides free medical care to the poor.
9. What do you like to do in your downtime?
Ruf: I love to read, talk with friends, take walks, watch movies, volunteer and catch up on sleep! Basically, I do anything that can clear my mind, even if only for a little while.
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