Department of Biology

From SFA to medical school

After graduating from SFA with a 4.0 GPA, biology major Bryndís Grissom is now studying osteopathic medicine at the University of North Texas Health Science Center Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth.

While at SFA, Bryndís conducted research alongside Dr. Kevin Langford. She credits both Dr. Langford and Dr. Sarah Canterberry for challenging her with innovative teaching techniques. 

A matter of life and breath

Julia Gaona saves lives as a respiratory therapist on an elite neonatal and pediatric intensive care team that travels by jet to patients more than 100 miles from Texas Children’s Hospital – once going as far as Guatemala. Julia’s journey began when she earned her biology degree at SFA. She then earned her Bachelor of Science in respiratory care at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Julia also assists in the hospital’s pediatric intensive care unit and works as a respiratory therapist at UTMB-Galveston. 

The sweet smell of success

Joel Wilson discovered an interest in the chemical sources of aromas while studying organic chemistry at SFA. He earned his biology degree and was hired by a perfumer. Joel eventually founded his own company, Clarity Fragrances, in Houston. His company provides fragrances for household items like candles, potpourri and shampoo. Occasionally, he has the opportunity to work on fine fragrances for boutique shops, too.