Aniston Marie Hill
Bachelor of Science, Microbiology
Profile
Briefly tell us about yourself (e.g. hometown, family, hobbies, favorite BYU courses, intended profession)
I am a proud Texan from a family of seven with a love for good BBQ and TexMex, hiking, camping, reading, running, sports, and card games. I thoroughly enjoyed my BYU experience in the Microbiology department with my awesome McCleary research team and fellow MMBIO 151 and 221 TAs. I grew so much as a student, scientist, and individual with the leadership and learning opportunities provided by the College of Life Sciences.
Who were your greatest supporters while earning this degree?
My greatest original supporters were no doubt my parents who encouraged me to find my passion and gave me the tools to follow it. My husband Brian Quinlan always helped me prioritize my work and gave me the courage to try new things and to push myself academically and professionally. I would not be the same person I am today without these individuals.
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen at BYU?
My biggest piece of advice would be to discover what you love and look for ways to build a greater world using the knowledge and skills that comes from it. For my life science majors, I would suggest that you join a research or teaching assistant team as early as you can to maximize the learning and leadership opportunities that those provide.
How has your experience at BYU prepared you for the rest of your life?
I am more confident and capable as a leader, more educated and skilled as a scientist, and more motivated and prepared to apply the principles of lifelong learning after graduation. I have a greater understanding of the balance between health and disease on microscopic and macroscopic levels, which will assist me in my future career as a microbiology researcher, educator, and citizen.