A biology major on the pre-med track, UCCS junior Amelia Anderson’s academic drive is almost as impressive as her unmistakable confidence and vibrant enthusiasm.
Amelia was homeschooled and began her academic ascent through concurrent enrollment at Pikes Peak State College. By the time she entered UCCS, she had already earned 24 college credits – just shy of transfer status, a detail that ultimately worked in her favor.
“I cushioned myself, so I only have to take 13 to 14 credit hours a semester and then a few summer classes, rather than the standard 15 to 16 hours,” she said. “It’s just enough to keep me busy and keep my brain engaged.”
Amelia also works two jobs on the UCCS campus. She’s an orientation leader for the university and she recently started working as a peer advocate for the Reisher Scholarship program. Once a self-described introvert, she credits her role as an orientation leader with helping her find her voice and confidence.
“I love people,” she said. “I love talking to people, helping people, engaging with people.”
As an orientation leader, Amelia meets with students one-on-one and helps them enroll in classes for the first time. Her role as a peer advocate includes being a touchpoint for scholars about things like FAFSA, scholarship applications, and the day-to-day stresses of college life.
“I’m excited for students to reach out for help and to be able to point them in the right direction when they need more help than I can give,” she said. “We’re here to help them navigate the unknown, especially when it’s a really scary unknown.”
Both roles have allowed her to support incoming students, just as others have helped her.
“I was a very nerdy kid in high school,” she said. “Working with people has really helped to bring me out of being an introvert. I struggled to talk to people. I felt like I was so awkward. But now I feel like a new person. It really just gave me a sense of belonging.”
Amelia’s success has been bolstered by a suite of scholarships, including the Reisher Scholars Program, the Bruce and Anne Shepard Reach Your Peak scholarship, the Bridge Forward scholarship, an Honors Student Scholarship, and a recipient of the Chancellor’s Award.
She said the funds have not only eased the financial burden of college but also opened doors to mentorship, community, and leadership opportunities.
“When I got the Reisher call, that was one of the best days I’ve had in the past five years,” she said. “I don’t have to worry about paying tuition. I can just enjoy school.”Amelia shared that her journey as a pre-med student was sparked early, as far back as fourth grade. She recalls a dissection project that left her fascinated rather than squeamish. That moment, along with her own experiences with doctors, inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare.
In addition to school and work, Amelia has spent more than 100 hours volunteering at the Children’s Hospital in Briargate, deepening her commitment and giving her hands-on experience along with a clearer vision of her future.
Her advice to current UCCS students is both practical and heartfelt: “Do what is best for you. Take care of yourself. And know that the world is both a big and small place – you will find your people.”