Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Kristin Belcher, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, made a significant move to Gilbert, Arizona, during high school, which ultimately shaped her academic journey.
Now a biochemistry major in ASU's School of Molecular Sciences, Belcher's passion for science began as a young girl and deepened in high school, where her love for chemistry led her to pursue biochemistry. Encouraged by her favorite teacher, she found the field fascinating, particularly in understanding how the human body works and how medicine interacts with biological processes.
From learning about lactose intolerance to studying how medicines elicit bodily responses, Belcher's journey has been both challenging and rewarding.
Throughout her time at ASU, Belcher has embraced the value of collaboration, gaining new perspectives through group projects, leadership roles in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and internships like Science is Fun.
She has been a part of multiple organizations on campus, including the Black Medical Student Association, and Belcher helped start-up the organization Black Women in STEM at ASU. This spirit of teamwork has not only shaped her academic experience but also transformed how she approaches challenges in her personal and professional life.
Now, as she prepares for the next steps in her career, Belcher reflects on her time at ASU as an essential period of growth, both in and out of the classroom.
Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?
Answer: I realized that I wanted to study biochemistry when I was in high school. I always loved science as a little girl and really enjoyed it when I was in high school, especially chemistry. When it came to picking a major for college, I asked my favorite teacher, my chemistry teacher, what she suggested I look into, and her answer was biochemistry. I decided to choose it as my major and have enjoyed the concepts of why our bodies operate the way that they do, and the behind the scenes of living processes in our body.
I have enjoyed learning why I am lactose intolerant and learning how different medicines are able to warrant responses in our body. It is a difficult field to learn, but learning about it and being able to explain to others has been enjoyable and worth every second.
Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: One of the most transformative lessons I've learned at ASU is how much value there is in collaboration. Whether it’s working on group projects, planning events for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, or engaging in internships like Science is Fun, I've come to appreciate how different perspectives and strengths can come together to create something far better than what I could achieve alone. This realization extends beyond academics, as working with diverse people has taught me the importance of adaptability and understanding. It’s changed how I approach challenges and communicate, both personally and professionally. It's surprising how much growth happens when you're open to learning from others
Q: Why did you choose ASU?
A: I chose to go to ASU because I went to high school at ASU Prep Poly STEM High School, so it helped me prepare for my future at ASU and I also wanted to stay close to home and family since I have grown up in Gilbert, Arizona. ASU is also just a good school with many different programs and opportunities.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: I have learned many different things from my different professors at ASU. Katherine Boyce-Jacino was one of the most impactful professors during my time at ASU. Beyond the subject matter, her teaching emphasized the importance of critical thinking and applying knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: The best piece of advice that I would give someone still in school is to stay focused on your goals and not let any opportunity pass you by. Take advantage of every opportunity, even if it seems small. Join organizations, attend events, network with peers and professors, and take on internships. These experiences often teach you just as much — if not more — than your classes and help you grow in unexpected ways. And don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way; balance is key to staying motivated and avoiding burnout.
Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?
A: I really enjoyed going to Hayden Library on the fourth floor to study. They have comfy chairs that you can sit in. I often went to study and would sit in a comfy chair between the bookshelves with my favorite snacks and headphones.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: After graduation, I plan to take some time off from school to rest, reflect and recharge before I start looking into graduate programs for next fall. During this break, I aim to focus on personal growth, gaining professional experience and exploring areas of interest to solidify my career goals. I plan to dedicate time to building my skills, whether through internships, certifications or volunteer opportunities, to strengthen my graduate school applications and make me a more competitive candidate. Additionally, I want to use this time to reconnect with hobbies and passions that may have taken a back seat during school, like traveling, reading or engaging in creative projects. I would like to get into a career in the healthcare field in the end, as that has always been my goal.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: I would focus on addressing homelessness. This issue affects countless individuals and families, disrupting lives and perpetuating cycles of poverty. With $40 million, I would take a multi-pronged approach to provide both immediate relief and long-term solutions.
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