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Biology Mallory Wilson Center for Healthcare Education

Lehua Hoops '26

Lehua Hoops '26
Biology Mallory Wilson Center for Healthcare Education

Lehua Hoops '26

  • Hometown: Brookville, OH
  • Class: 2026
  • Major(s):  Biology, Premedical and Pre-Health Studies (co-major)
  • Other Activities, Honors, and Awards:
    • Honors College
    • STEMM Scholar
    • Bridges Scholars
    • Prodesse Scholars
    • Presidents List
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The large-sized university allows for many opportunities academically, professionally, and socially while still allowing for a comfortable feeling with a smaller-sized campus. I also was very intrigued with the amount of research opportunities for undergraduate students.
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Lehua Hoops, Why Miami?

Why Miami?

The large-sized university allows for many opportunities academically, professionally, and socially while still allowing for a comfortable feeling with a smaller-sized campus. I also was very intrigued with the amount of research opportunities for undergraduate students.


How did you choose your major?

I originally applied as a Biomedical Engineering major and was interested in working in hospitals but not as a nurse, physician's associate, or doctor. It wasn't until I shadowed a doctor that made me realize I had underestimated my need to help others, which led me to choose the pre-med career and my co-major in Premedical and Pre-Health Studies. I also have always found biology interesting on every level, including microbiology and molecular biology as well. My Biology major allows me to explore microbiology, biology, molecular/cellular biology, and anatomical biology.


Key Moment at Miami

My Spanish professor, Senora Beth Boyd, was the best teacher I have ever had in my academic career! This professor helped me to find a love in the Spanish culture as well as explore my options with helping underserved Latino communities in the healthcare setting. She was the most approachable teacher as well and has been one of my only professors who was thoroughly interested in knowing my life outside of college and school.


Other Notable Experience

I have been able to do research in the ONLY Antarctica lab at Miami with Dr. Rachael Morgan-Kiss. During my time in this research lab, I explored microbiological sciences and algal species, which interested me greatly. I was able to explore the stressors that such small organisms produce to survive, similar to our fight-or-flight reactions. I also worked as a tour guide on campus and have been lucky enough to help guide high school students in their college decision-making. I am also a Resident Assistant on campus and have found it very fulfilling to facilitate the transition to college life for many freshmen! Being an RA has been one of the greatest experiences I could have asked for! I have made so many new friends and been successful in helping others on their tough path through college.


Another Miami Moment

This is not necessarily a Miami experience, but it has helped me find a more profound love in the Oxford/Miami community. I work at McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital in the emergency room, which has allowed me to help not only the students of Miami but also the community of Oxford. It has been an eye-opening experience, but it is something that I truly love and am excited to continue helping the community until I graduate.

Advice to Prospective Students

Find the best fit for you! Every school will have pros and cons that you must consider, but find the school that feels like one you would miss during breaks but could also help propel your career forward. Miami has some of the best resources at your fingertips to utilize. All in all, choosing a school is difficult, but finding the school that suits you and your needs is vital!


What are your career goals?  

I plan to attend medical school and obtain my MD. I am currently planning on becoming an emergency medicine physician but am still considering my options regarding what specialty to choose.