Undergraduate Students

Rhaigan Whatley

Major and degree pursued: Biology, bachelor of science

Prospective graduation year: 2025

What motivates you to do science?

As a woman of color, pursuing medicine and science will allow me to make groundbreaking discoveries and ensure adequate care and aid are provided to people of color. It is extremely important for women of color to explore science and medicine to address gaps in representation and contribute to the advancement of health-care equity, innovation, and social justice. Health disparities between Black communities and others in the United States are well documented. They are often heightened by things like systemic racism, which influences health-care access and treatment quality. Black women are disproportionately impacted by conditions such as maternal mortality, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Contributing to scientific and medical fields as an African American woman will not only benefit my personal growth but also help reshape the future, ensuring that health care and scientific progress serve everyone, especially underrepresented communities.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History Month is an important time for all African Americans, but I believe it holds a particular significance to women of color. Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions trailblazing African Americans have made to our community and to health care. This time also serves as a reminder of the struggle and resistance people of color have faced and continue to face today. Black women have historically been marginalized, forcing us to fight for racial justice and gender equality. Black History Month gives us the opportunity to amplify our voices and ensure that our struggles, stories, and successes are heard.