Matt Laufer ’27: From Plant Science to Predental Track
Matt Laufer ’27 arrived at Clemson University intending to study plants. However, his academic journey took an unexpected turn as he discovered a passion for combining his scientific interests with a people-centric career. This led him to pursue a predental track.
Native to Brielle, New Jersey, Matt attended a biotechnology-focused high school, fostering his interest in environmental science and agriculture. During his campus tours, Clemson's research facilities and outdoor recreation on Lake Hartwell captivated him. For a sailing enthusiast like Matt, the proximity to water was an added allure.
"Clemson has a lake, so I was sold," Matt reminisces. "I enjoyed the campus tour and reached out to the agriculture recruiter. I visited the greenhouse and immediately felt at home. I could walk everywhere, which was a plus."
Diving into Plant Research
Matt majored in plant and environmental sciences with a concentration in agricultural biotechnology. He immersed himself in plant research during his freshman year, joining the cotton genetics lab of Professor Christopher Saski. His work focused on enhancing fiber quality and developing germplasm to increase the oil content and disease resistance in upland cotton, promoting sustainability in agriculture.
"The lab specializes in introducing genes to plants," Matt explains. "We started with cotton but have expanded to peaches and cucumbers. We aim to develop reliable genetic methods for future researchers to build upon."
A Shift in Perspective
As Matt progressed in his plant science courses and gained practical lab experience, he began to question his initial career path.
"I realized I enjoyed aspects of different science classes and interacting with people," he reflects. "So, I started considering how to merge these interests into a career. Dentistry seemed like a natural fit."
Matt's switch to predental studies aligned with his strengths in science and his desire to solve problems and help people. He discovered that his major and concentration courses had significant overlap with dental school prerequisites, allowing him to transition smoothly. He has taken additional prerequisite classes and added a minor in biological sciences to further strengthen his application for dental school.
"I still appreciate plant and environmental science," Matt says. "But the predental track courses are preparing me for my future career goals."
Looking Ahead to Patient Care
Through the Predental Club, Matt has connected with peers, gained insights into the Dental Admissions Test, and explored application processes and schools. He's also developing the practical skills required for dentistry, including manual dexterity with dental tools.
"The club meetings offer hands-on practice and a chance to consider different aspects of the dental profession," Matt notes. "It's exciting to think about how I can make a difference as a future dentist."
At Clemson, Matt found the freedom to explore his interests and discover his true calling.