Outstanding Owl

The unknown remains a lure to the young minds entering the realms of
any science. Andrew Thomas, 19, is one student drawn to that unknown.
As a biochemistry major with a possible philosophy minor in the works,
Thomas spends many hours studying and working to maintain his
grades.

In addition to taking a heavy load of classes, Thomas works in the
psychology lab in Weiss Hall under the direction of Dr. Philip N. Hineline.
He primarily helps with research on experimental behaviorism. This
involves working with animals to research different conditioning methods.
In the rare moments of spare time he finds, Thomas takes up his interest
in philosophy. He continues to expand his knowledge on objectivism, a
philosophy best described by Ayn Rand, which suggests that everything in life is based on logic and reason.

“Philosophy mixes all parts of life and is going to come into play with
whatever I do,” Thomas said.

As he is faced with ethical choices, Thomas sees the mix of both studies
entering into play. Whether it is questioning the progress of genetics or
the role of cloning in science, Thomas hopes to gain grounds in
researching various diseases.

Thomas is also a University Honors student, where he takes advantage of many opportunities from classes to trips to the Wingbowl. “Wingbowl
2002 was a small town pie-eating contest with a twist that you can only
find in Philadelphia,” Thomas remarked on his latest adventure.

A Pittsburgh native, Thomas plans to study abroad in Germany. He would
also like to eventually take his career overseas.

For now, Thomas has a simple understanding, “I have a goal in mind and
work to reach it by my own actions.”