2021 Class

Amiyah Aldridge

Hi, my name is Amiyah Aldridge, and I am from Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Over the course of my four years of high school, I played mellophone in my school’s marching band and I also played french horn in our All-Superior Concert Band. Additionally, I was a member of Mu Alpha Theta, Beta Club, STEM League, Key Club, and Spanish Honor Society. Aside from school, I started an ACT and math tutoring program. I love to read, watch Netflix, shop, hang out with friends and family, and play each of the five instruments I own. At UA, I plan to major in chemistry and minor in Spanish in hopes of utilizing my degree to attend medical school where I will achieve my dream of becoming an anesthesiologist. Can’t wait to attend UA in the fall!

Amiyah Aldridge 2021 McCollough Scholars

Casey Jay Anderson

My name is Casey Anderson, and I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio. I graduated from Cincinnati Christian High School where I was a record-setting varsity swimmer, Student Council President, NHS President, Senior Class President, and a National Merit Finalist. I was also involved in the Theatre Department, where I designed and built the sets for eight shows, and appeared in five, including The Wizard of Oz and The Servant of Two Masters. Outside of school, I’m very involved at my local pool and my church. At the pool, I’m entering my 10th year swimming on the team, and my first as a coach. I also work as a lifeguard for the pool. At church, I serve on the Student Leadership team and was elected the NYI District Representative for Southwestern Ohio. I really like watching and playing sports, video games, and hanging out with my friends. At Alabama, the plan is to major in biology or microbiology and minor in Greek or Food and Nutrition. I can’t wait to get started this fall!

Claire Marie Bennett

Hello! I’m Claire Bennett, and I’m graduating from Ryle High School in Union, Kentucky. I have participated in organizations such as the National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Future Health Professionals (HOSA), and Multicultural Society throughout high school. I have held leadership positions in all these organizations and am currently the President of my National Honor Society chapter. Beyond academics, I spent much of my summers volunteering with special needs children of all ages within my school district. I enjoyed these experiences so much that I became a peer tutor to these kids in art and dance my junior year and in the classroom my senior year. Outside of school, I spend most of my time working at Chick-Fil-A. I love serving my community, and I have recently been promoted to a Shift Leader position! I am currently a Premedical Studies major, but I am extremely interested in Public Health! I’m looking forward to meeting all my fellow scholars, and I cannot wait to call the University of Alabama home!

Matthew Bottcher

Wesley Bryant

Hello! My name is Wesley Bryant, and I am from Cumming, GA. I graduated from South Forsyth High School as a National Merit Finalist, and I am attending the University of Alabama to study Public Health. My interest in medicine comes from my parents; my dad works as a nuclear pharmacist, and my mom works as a pediatric research nurse. I hope to obtain my medical degree and then become a pediatric oncologist. During high school, I was heavily involved in DECA, HOSA, and FCA, and during my senior year, I served as the President of my school’s Beta Club chapter. I am also very passionate about service. I have volunteered in the preschool ministry at my local church since middle school, and I have been a part of the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta VolunTEEN Program since 2018. My dad attended the University of Alabama, and I have spent countless gamedays in Tuscaloosa throughout my childhood. I am thrilled to be able to attend college in a place that has already been a second home to me for so long, and I feel blessed to be a part of the McCollough Pre-Medical Scholars Program. I can’t wait to see what God does in my life over these next four years!

Gianna Butler

Hi! My name is Gianna Butler, and I’m from Huntsville, Texas. I graduated from Richards High School as valedictorian of my class. During high school, I was a member of the Mensa Honor Society, National Honor Society, FFA, and varsity cheer captain. I served as class vice-president and was also president of Panther Buddies, a peer mentor program for elementary students. Some of my hobbies include baking, reading, watching Netflix, and traveling. I love the 90s, musical theatre, animals, and astronomy. I plan to major in biology and hope to go to medical school to become a pediatric oncologist. I’m so excited to start my journey at UA! Roll Tide!

Meredith Callahan

Hi! My name is Meredith Callahan, and I’m from Hinsdale, Illinois, just outside of Chicago. I graduated from Fenwick High School with Honors as a four-year varsity swimmer and president of the Italian Club. I am also an Academic All-American. I love being with people and spending time with friends. I plan on studying Biology and my dream is to become a Dermatologist. I am grateful and honored to be included as a member of the McCollough Scholars and I am really looking forward to this year! Roll Tide!

Sydney Clements

My name is Sydney Clements, and I am from Franklin, Indiana, where I graduated from Franklin Community High School as a National Merit Finalist. In high school, I ran cross country and track and field, and I was involved with Riley Dance Marathon, National Honor Society, INTERACT Club, 4-H, and my church’s youth group. Outside of school, I enjoy watching Netflix (top picks include The Office and Gilmore Girls), working at a local coffee shop (which doesn’t help with my iced coffee addiction), spending time with my family, listening to Harry Styles, and Target shopping. I will be majoring in chemistry with the aspiration of becoming a pediatric cardiologist. I’m so excited to join the University of Alabama and the McCollough Pre-Medical Scholars Program this fall – Roll Tide!

Meagan Copeland

Hello! My name is Meagan Copeland, and I am from Lineville, Alabama. I graduated from Central High School of Clay County as the Valedictorian of my senior class. I was lucky enough to be a member of the band at my school for 6 years where I also served as a section leader for over three years. I was a member of the Front Ensemble where I played marimba and vibraphone, but I also learned how to play several types of drums. I was a member of Juniorettes, Math Team, the Scholar’s Bowl team, as well as Sr. BETA. I am also a nationally registered EMT. I am an avid reader, chronic Netflix binger, and incredibly dedicated to trying to better myself and those around me. I will be majoring in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Child Life, along with being a member of the McCollough Institute of Pre-Medical Scholars. This will ultimately help me in my goal to practice Pediatric medicine abroad in underserved countries as well as specializing in Pediatric Trauma here in the United States.

Lauren Deakin

Hi! My name is Lauren Deakin, and I am from Spring, Texas. Throughout high school, I have been involved in HOSA competitions, 3 different national honor societies, and community service through National Charity League and mission trips. I also earned my EMT certification this year! I plan on majoring in Public Health and becoming an orthopedic physician in the future. I would like to take the time to go on medical mission trips so that I can help people in countries that don’t have the medical resources that the United States has. I love spending time with friends, hiking, and traveling which has led me to some amazing places like Iceland and Italy. I am super excited to spend the next four years in the McCollough Program at UA!

Aidan Flanagan

Hey everyone! My name is Aidan Flanagan, and I went to Bishop Hendricken High School in Warwick, Rhode Island, where I found my passion for medicine through loving my biology classes and mentoring students with learning and developmental differences. I was also captain of the crew team at Narragansett Boat Club in Providence, RI. I’m wicked excited to follow two of my siblings to Alabama, and I plan on studying Biology and French on the pre-med track. I’d love to go into Pediatrics or Infectious Diseases, but with a focus on serving underserved populations. When I’m not rowing, I’m usually listening to music, watching the Boston Bruins, playing with my dogs, or spending time outside. Roll Tide!

Elizabeth Gokie

Hello! My name is Liz Gokie, and I’m from Seward, Nebraska. I graduated from Seward High as a National Merit Scholar. I love to run and swim. Our cross-country team won the state championship in 2020! On my club team, I was a distance swimmer. I was involved in Skills USA, Quiz Bowl, piano, and National Honor Society. In the summer, I enjoy helping coach the local swim team. During my free time, I like to read, crochet, and hang out with friends. My major will be biology and I will minor in Spanish. I’m thrilled to be a part of the McCollough Pre-med Scholars program! I have been working as a CNA. I hope to attend medical school and become a physician. At Alabama, I am excited to attend football games and explore Tuscaloosa! Roll Tide!

Elayna Griffaw

My name is Elayna Griffaw. I am from Peachtree City, Georgia and I graduated with the highest of honors from McIntosh High School. Throughout my high school career, I have played the flute and piccolo in my school’s highest wind ensemble concert band and marching band. I served as the flute leader in the marching band and led our band to win many awards. I also lead the band council, where we solved any issues that arose in the band program. I have been a member of the GMEA All-State Band two times and I have participated in many other honor bands as well. I plan to play in the band at Alabama! Aside from band, I was a member of the National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Science Honor Society, Beta Club, HOSA, Tri-M Music Honor Society, and Sources of Strength. I plan to major in psychology and attend medical school in the future to possibly become an OBGYN doctor. I have known my entire life that I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field and I am ecstatic to be a part of the McCollough Institute for Pre-Medical Scholars to further my educational dreams. I have always admired the hard work and determination doctors have and I cannot believe I am on my way to becoming one at the University of Alabama. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, walking my golden doodle, and watching Netflix. I am so excited to start my next adventure in life at UA. Roll tide!

Madison Hasnani

Hi, my name is Madison Hasnani! I am from Jasper, Tennessee. I attended high school in Chattanooga, TN where I was involved in The National Honor Society, Student Council, Admissions Core, track, and cross country. I love dogs, hiking, volunteering in my community, painting, watching movies, and running! I am super excited to continue my education at Alabama; I plan to major in Psychology, and then move forward into medical school to become an Obstetrician-Gynecologist!

Isabella Jackson

Hi! My name is Isabella Jackson, and I am from Overland Park, Kansas. I enjoy tennis and rock climbing. I am majoring in Kinesiology with a goal to specialize in emergency medicine as a physician. My path to medicine and public service began at a community outreach program with my local police department. Over the past couple of summers, I attended pre-college programs that covered topics including coursework in Forensic Science, Criminal Intelligence Analysis, and Neuroscience. I am excited to delve deeper into learning about medicine through my studies at UA!

Zara Jadol

Hey y’all! I’m Zara Jadol and I’m from Memphis, Tennessee. I attended Briarcrest Christian High school and graduated with Honors and the top 20% of my class. I was a member of the National Honor Society, president of the Lebonheur Children’s Hospital Club, Communications Coordinator for Wilson’s Society, captain of the Varsity Track Team, a student ambassador, and senior class senator. I love traveling, going to concerts, running, and hanging out with friends and family. I am majoring in biology and minoring in Neuroscience. After hearing about the McCollough Institute for Pre-Medical scholars, I knew it would be a great program to help my career path in medicine. After graduating, I plan to attend medical school to become a radiologist. I am so excited to attend the University of Alabama and seek the opportunities it has to offer. Roll Tide!

Austin Jones

Hi, my name is Austin Jones and I’m from Palouse, Washington. In high school, I played three varsity sports all four years and participated in FFA, National Honor Society, ASB, and Envirothon. Some of my favorite things to do are to watch or play sports, go hiking, and relax with my friends. I also love to eat goldfish (the crackers, not the actual fish). At the University of Alabama, I plan to major in chemical engineering and be a part of the University Fellows Experience in addition to the McCollough Institute. Right now, my goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon. I look forward to having a great experience at Alabama! Roll Tide!

Kaleb Kovitch

Hello, my name is Kaleb Kovitch and I’m from Van Buren, Arkansas. In high school, I played football, golf, and was a member of The National Honor Society. In my spare time, I love to play disc golf, golf, watch movies, and hang out with friends. I’m a big sports fan and love to watch all sports, especially football. You can probably expect to see me at most of the home football games next year. At Alabama, I plan on majoring in mathematics and minoring in biology with a pre-med route. I’m blessed to have received the opportunity to be a part of the McCollough Scholars Program and am excited for my time at the University of Alabama. Roll Tide!

Emily Maguire

Hi! My name is Emily Maguire, and I am from Kennesaw, Georgia. In high school, I was captain of the varsity cheer team, president of my school’s public health club, and worked with elementary children at an after-school program. During my summers, I worked at a preschool summer camp and volunteered at a local hospital. At Alabama, I plan to major in Biology with the goal of becoming a surgeon. I hope to get involved in Greek life and gain more experience in the medical field. I’m so excited to be at UA in the fall. Roll tide!

Tyler Marshall Martin

Hello! My name is Ty Martin, and I’m from Lafayette, Louisiana. I graduated from St. Thomas More High School as a Utopian Honors Graduate, National Merit Finalist, and a member of the National Honor Society. Throughout high school, I was part of the track and field team, campus ministry, and an altar server at my home parish. At the University of Alabama, I plan to major in Biology with minors in Business and Spanish on a pre-med track. I am incredibly honored to be a member of the McCollough Institute for Pre-Medical Scholars and am looking forward to an amazing college experience!

Tiffany McHenry

Hello, my name is Tiffany McHenry, and I am from Fort Worth, Texas. I attended Arlington Heights High School. I participated in cross country, track, and soccer all four years of high school, and recently tried softball senior year. The academic clubs I participated in included the National Honor Society, Student Council, whiz-quiz, and other UIL academic events. I was the senior class vice president of the Student Council. I love reading, conducting research, and am dedicated to trying to make the lives of those around me better. At UA, I plan on majoring in mathematics and minoring in interdisciplinary medical studies and Spanish. My ultimate goal is to obtain an MD, Ph.D. so that I can conduct medical research that would allow me to treat patients with new and existing treatment options. I am very proud to be a future McCollough Scholar.

Miller McCarthy

My name is Miller McCarthy and I’m from Montgomery, Alabama. I graduated from Alabama Christian Academy as an AP Scholar and Jimmy Hitchcock award winner. I also played football, where I served as a captain junior and senior year, as well as being a first-team All-State and All-Metro linebacker as a senior. I was also a part of the Key Club, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish National Honor Society, and my school’s Athletic Ambassadors. At Alabama, I’m planning on majoring in Biology and I can’t wait to get started! Roll Tide!

Morgan Mittlestadt

Hi! My name is Morgan Mittlestadt, and I’m from Ada, Michigan. I graduated from Forest Hills Central High School, and there I danced with the school’s varsity dance team and was a member of its National Honors Society chapter. I was on the honor roll all eight semesters of high school, and I was recognized as an AP Scholar with Honor by the College Board. During my high school years, I also competed with Imprint Dance Company, wrote for my school’s newspaper, became an adult tutor at the West Michigan Literacy Center, and worked a few jobs in retail, food, and caregiving. I plan to major in chemistry and double-minor in Spanish and interdisciplinary pre-medical studies. I look forward to the next four years with the McCollough Institute; in medical school, I hope to focus on dermatology and go into the field of clinical dermatology. I am very interested in participating in Greek Life, studying abroad, and getting involved on campus however I can! Roll tide!

Ty Murphy

My name is Ty Murphy, and I am from Albertville, Alabama. I enjoy hunting, football, golf, and country music. I am majoring in Chemical Engineering and also plan to obtain a master’s degree in business administration through the STEM path to MBA program. After graduating from UA, I plan to pursue a MD degree with aspirations of becoming a Dermatologist. I have always loved biology and chemistry and the idea of working in the medical field. I am super excited to join the McCollough Institute for Pre-Med Scholars and I cannot wait to further my education at the University of Alabama.

Nathan Schaufele

Taylor Schnorbus

Hi! My name is Taylor Schnorbus, and I am from Jacksonville, Florida. I recently graduated from the IB program at Stanton College Preparatory High School as a National Merit Finalist and in the Top 10% of my class. In high school, I was a member of the Mock Trial Team and played Varsity sports: Flag Football and Cross Country. I enjoy spending time with my friends, listening to music, mountain biking, and eating tiramisu. At Alabama, I plan to major in Chemical Engineering and participate in the STEM Path to the MBA before attending medical school. I am so grateful for this opportunity and cannot wait to start my journey in the fall. Roll Tide!

Andrew Sheridan

My name is Andrew Sheridan, and I am from Springboro, Ohio. During my high school years, I was an athlete on the Cross-Country team, the founder of an aquarium maintenance company, and a cashier at a specialty grocery store. My younger brother and I both have a severe food allergy and I used our experiences to create a successful nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families of newly diagnosed food-allergic children. My hobbies include running, saltwater aquariums, and learning Japanese. To relax I enjoy reading, making milkshakes, and watching horror movies. And Wednesdays at 8 pm are reserved for watching “Survivor”. At the University of Alabama, I plan to major in Biology and hope to help perform research in Immunology. In addition to being a McCollough Scholar, I am also a member of the Honors College University Fellows Experience.

Gracie Sunde

Hi, my name is Gracie Sunde. I’m from Papillion, Nebraska, and I graduated from Papillion-La Vista South High School. I ran cross country and track and was involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, Global Support Club, and student government. I was also part of my school’s Health Academy where I earned my CNA and CMA. In my free time, I like to run, read, listen to Taylor Swift, and do anything fun/adventurous with my friends. I plan to major in chemical engineering with the end goal of attending medical school and becoming an anesthesiologist. I’m so excited and grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program!

Maddison Surles

Hello! My name is Maddison Surles, but most people call me Maddi. I graduated from Broken Arrow High School in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma as an AP Scholar and a member of my Class of Distinction (top 3%). During high school, I was heavily involved in Student Council as the Service Officer my senior year and a general officer my junior year, and during this, I helped to establish our school’s philanthropy week. For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a doctor and recently I have started being interested in the oncology field. Throughout my childhood, I have had many experiences with many doctors, and each encounter has fueled my fire to become a doctor and help people just as much as mine have helped me. I cannot wait for the journey ahead of me at the McCollough Institute and the University of Alabama!

Alyssa Thompson

My name is Alyssa Thompson and I’m from Huntsville, Alabama. I went to New Century Technology High School which is a STEM magnet school, and I completed the biomedical pathway. I was a part of HOSA, National Honors Society, president of BETA Club, and an ambassador for my school. During my senior year I completed two internships at Hudson Alpha Institute for Biotechnology and Huntsville Hospital; through these internships, I became a certified patient care technician and a certified bio technician assistant. At UA I am planning on majoring in public health and minoring in interdisciplinary medical studies and environmental science. One day I hope to be an OBGYN because my biggest passion is helping other women. I look forward to seeing all the University of Alabama has to offer me, roll tide!