Christopher Joseph Haynie
Bachelor of Science, Molecular Biology
Profile
Briefly tell us about yourself (e.g. hometown, family, hobbies, favorite BYU courses, intended profession)
Friends call me Topher! I grew up in Branson, Missouri as the youngest of 6 in my family. I was married January 18, 2020 to my beautiful wife Rebecca and we are expecting our first child this June. My wife and I enjoy playing games together, though if I am honest, she usually beats me. In the summer, I love to water ski if I get the chance. During my time at BYU, I found my way to work in the Weber Lab working on T cell research. I intend to continue on this path to someday be a professor so that I can not only teach but run a research lab with my students.
Who were your greatest supporters while earning this degree?
I have had many people support me through obtaining this degree including my wonderful wife Rebecca and my amazing parents. I am also very thankful for my mentor Dr. K. Scott Weber who has helped me grow so much! I am happy to be able to work under him as he has helped me work towards my goals.
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen at BYU?
My advice for freshmen is to be broad initially in classes you are taking. Find out your interests and then plan out what to do with them. Do not take too many classes at the start. Give yourself a semester of 14 credits or so just to get a feel for what you are doing. Get good grades your first semester and don't waste your time. At the same time, enjoy life while you learn here at BYU.
How has your experience at BYU prepared you for the rest of your life?
My dad always says that the reason we need a college degree is so that we learn how to learn. What he means by this is that a college education prepares you to be able to succeed wherever you go in life. I believe this to be true. I have learned how to learn and am ready to move forward and face some more of life's challenges.