INDS B.S.: Neuroscience
Spring 2026 Capstone
My INDS Degree
The degree I am proposing is in Neuroscience, which the NIH defines as the “… study of the nervous system…aiming to understand how the nervous system works to produce and regulate emotion, thought, behavior, and critical bodily functions, including breathing and keeping the heart beating.” (NIH 2018). Specifically in neuroscience, I want to focus on the essential bodily functions related to pain, exploring the reasons why we feel pain, the physiological and psychological factors involved, and the complementary Western and holistic treatment approaches for managing it. The IASP, International Association for the Study of Pain defines pain as “… an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage…” (Raja 2020). Understanding pain at a broad level is essential, but I am particularly drawn to orofacial pain due to its complexity and impact on daily life. This specialization requires a deep understanding of neuroscience and a comprehensive approach to pain management. My goal is to not only alleviate pain but to enhance my patients’ overall well-being by addressing the physical and emotional factors that contribute to their condition. Since pain involves both physical and psychological factors, I believe a degree in Neuroscience will provide me with the essential knowledge to understand how pain works in both the body and the mind.
Post Graduation Plans
Following graduation, I will be applying to dental school. During my gap year, I plan to continue my research at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry while further immersing myself in clinical experiences through shadowing and dental assisting internships. My INDS degree has provided me with a unique advantage in this pursuit: it allowed me to complete rigorous prerequisite coursework while simultaneously developing a sophisticated understanding of patient care through public health and sociological lenses. As I enter the field of dentistry, I will be equipped with not only the technical proficiency but also with the critical thinking and communication skills necessary to provide comprehensive, community-centered care.
Courses In My INDS Degree
✅Biochemical Processes and Functions: Develop skills and understanding in molecular mechanisms that are vital for life, bridging disciplines from biology to chemistry. (BIOL 252, 252L, 300L, 302, 302L, 375, CHEM 351, 351L, 352, 352L, 437)
✅Neurological Structures and Functions to Interpret Pain: Build the knowledge to effectively interpret and analyze the complexities of pain perception. (PSYC 335, 370, 375, 390)
✅Community Health Relationships and Restorative Medicine: Draw from multiple cultures to research curative approaches to holistic care. (PSYC 387, SOCY 351, PBHL 354)
✅Individualized Study: This research methods course will help me gain an understanding of statistics on a biological level: understanding distributions, hypothesis testing, and probability. (INDS 330, 335, 399, 410/430, 480, 490, STAT 350)