COSAM News Articles 2023 May COSAM Graduation Marshal seeks to make a difference as a doctor with a passion for microbiology

COSAM Graduation Marshal seeks to make a difference as a doctor with a passion for microbiology

Published: 05/02/2023

By: Maria Gebhardt

Ashtyn Phillippi, a native of Lafayette, Louisiana, was born with a heart defect that inspired her to pursue a career as a physician to give back to others. Phillippi will carry the flag for the College of Sciences and Mathematics, or COSAM, into the commencement ceremony as the college’s Graduation Marshal. She graduates with her bachelor's degree with a major in microbiology and is attending LSU Shreveport School of Medicine in the fall.

“I really enjoyed my time at Auburn University,” Phillippi said. “In my microbiology courses, I was able to apply what I learned to directly identify the correct bacteria. It was rewarding to be able to use your coursework to help you further your knowledge.”

Phillippi was originally a chemical engineering major. However, that quickly changed when she took her first microbiology course in her sophomore year.

“I fell in love with microbiology,” she said. “It has so many important applications to medicine, and I love the definitive ways it applies to treating patients with viral or bacterial infections.”

When she is not in class, Phillippi works 12-hours shifts at East Alabama Medical Center, or EAMC. As a monitor technician at EAMC, she watches the heart rates or oxygen levels of patients.

“I have learned so much being able to work in a hospital setting being responsible for critical signs of patients who are working toward the road to recovery,” she added.

Phillippi takes her own paths and stays active outside of the classroom and hospital. She enjoys running in Kiesel Park or Town Creek Park in Auburn. In 2020, she completed her first half-marathon. She also likes to play golf and is even scuba certified.

“I love the sense of community at Auburn University,” she said.

During her four years on the Plains, Phillippi was a COSAM Leader and a COSAM Peer Advisor. She participated in Project Uplift, Delta Gamma, Auburn Wesley Foundation, Esperanza House and Diamond Dolls.

“Everyone here has been beyond supportive of my academic and professional goals, and the resources provides by the entire university have been incredible.”