“My aim has been to create a strong sense of community and belonging among FSU’s diverse student body.”
Fast Facts
- Student Athlete: Plays intramural basketball for the Asian American Student Union at FSU
- Trilingual: Speaks English, Punjabi and Spanish
- Inspiration: Kobe Bryant's "Mamba Mentality"
- Favorite Sports Team: Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Lakers, and Arsenal Football Club
- Favorite Artist: Drake
Florida State University senior Jayson Bakshi has a passion for making high-quality health care available to underserved communities. His time living in Orange County, California, broadened his life experiences, which, combined with his interest in biology, led him to FSU.
Where are you from and what is your major?
I was born in Rochester, New York, and lived there until I was 14. Then, I moved to Orange County, California, until I came to FSU, where I now study cell and molecular neuroscience, with a minor in chemistry.
Why did you decide to attend FSU?
Growing up in Rochester, New York, and then moving to Orange County, California, gave me a taste of different lifestyles, climates and environments. It made me comfortable with change and eager to explore new places. When it came time to apply for college, I cast a wide net, seeking out large public universities with strong sports programs and attractive campuses. FSU stood out to me for several reasons. First, it met my criteria with its renowned football and basketball teams and its stunning campus. Secondly, FSU offered me a scholarship that made attending more affordable than any other option, despite being an out-of-state student. Given these factors, choosing FSU was an easy decision for me.
Can you tell us about your involvement in the Noles Everywhere program?
As an Ambassador for the Noles Everywhere program at FSU, I’ve been deeply engaged in enhancing the university experience for off-campus and out-of-state students. Through organizing and hosting various events, my aim has been to create a strong sense of community and belonging among our diverse student body. By fostering connections and providing support, we’ve been able to improve the overall campus atmosphere and demonstrate FSU’s commitment to inclusive student engagement. Additionally, my roles in the Freshman Leadership Institute and the Transfer Leadership Institute have allowed me to mentor new students, guiding them toward leadership roles and helping them navigate university life. These experiences have been pivotal in fostering a culture of support, ambition and collaboration within FSU’s community.
Why did you decide to pursue pediatric medicine?
This ambition is rooted in my personal experiences and the blessings of a fortunate upbringing, inspiring me to spread those blessings by pursuing a career dedicated to helping others in all contexts, including at FSU and beyond. In every role, I have strived to make a meaningful impact, driven by a commitment to serve and an ambition to pursue a career in pediatric medicine. My goal is to ensure that every child and family, regardless of their background, has access to quality health care and support.
What did you do at Strong Memorial Hospital, and what value did you get out of that experience?
During my time at Strong Memorial Hospital, I engaged in meaningful volunteer work that significantly contributed to the well-being of patients and the efficiency of hospital operations. My roles varied, providing me with a broad perspective on health care services and patient needs. I began my volunteer journey in the cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology wing and then progressed to the patient care transport team, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of patients and the delivery of various items throughout the hospital. It was a role that not only demanded responsibility and attention to detail but also offered me unique insight into the dynamics of different hospital wings, including neurology and neonatal care. Observing and indirectly participating in the multifaceted care provided in these departments deepened my understanding of patient care and health care operations, and the intricacies of providing the best experience to patients in the hospital.