Science homework is what the new student government president can squeeze in her busy schedule

Andrea Bell
Staff Writer

Science major, and Student Government President, it’s amazing that Nicole Ortega can find time to do, well, anything not relating to campus.

Half way through the 2011-12 school year Ortega stepped up to the president position, from the Clubs and Outreach Senator position. Ortega has been elected, during the student government elections that were on May 30 and 31, to continue her presidency into the 2012- 2013 school year.

“I want students to get involved, we have a lot of programs coming up, the performance lounge is going to be open, the new cafeteria remodel is coming through, I just want to see a lot more students involved this year,” Ortega said.

Ortega has an interest in science and has a very definite plan for how science will help carry her into the future. In the long run Ortega wants to earn a doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine.

As of now, Ortega is focusing on earning her Associates of Science with hopes of transferring to Eastern Washington University.

“I want to transfer to Eastern and get my bachelors of arts in biochemistry, and minor in economics,” Explained Ortega.

Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes in living organisms.

From Eastern, Ortega would like to study at Bastyr University in Kenmore to earn her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine.

“Naturopathic medicine is the use of natural healing. So patients are encouraged to change their diet, use different herbs and spices. Garlic is good for heart health. Turmeric is a good anti-inflammatory. People don’t have to take a drug for better health, they can do so naturally. I’ve always wanted to go into medicine. I never knew what area to go into until a friend introduced me to the natural side of healing. After my Bachelor’s degree, I want to go to Bastyr University to get my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. They are the best in the nation at what they do.” Ortega explained.

With such a busy schedule any personal time would be hard to find outside of studying.

“I’m supposed to have hobbies outside of school?” Ortega chuckled.

“Other than facebook games, [my time outside school] is homework, and more science homework,” Ortega explained.

Being a figure of authority in the student body, Ortega helps aide in making important decisions that affect the student body.

“I’m approachable, students can come talk to me, I’m really not all that mean, students can defiantly come say ‘hi’ to me and talk to me anytime” Ortega said.

Science is a hard subject for students to become engaged in, one can either understand it or not. The quality of the teachers can play a huge role in a student’s understanding.

“The two teachers that have inspired me most are Bob Johnson, and Mary Bath-Balogh. They both care about their students, in and out of the classroom. They are engaging and take the extra effort to get students involved. I know a lot of teachers care about their students, and everyone has their own style, but these two should be the model that everyone looks up to.” Ortega explained.