A World of Possibilities – Laura Anne Hatcher

When Laura Anne Hatcher, ’17, transferred to Meredith College from a large university her junior year, she wanted to continue her studies in biology with the goal of pursuing a career in the healthcare field.

“I have always loved learning about science and performing science experiments,” said Laura Anne. “I am intrigued with all the developments in the science field and within pharmaceuticals.”

Even as a junior biology major, Laura Anne was required to enroll in general education courses because of the liberal arts education that Meredith provides. It was through those courses that she developed a new passion. She is now working toward going to law school.

“These classes exposed me to a lot of new possibilities,” said Laura Anne. “As I took more courses, I realized that I wanted to go to law school. I am hoping to combine all of my interests together and work in environmental or pharmaceutical law.”

Coming to Meredith not only opened her eyes to a new career path but she was able to fulfill a dream of being a college athlete. Laura Anne is co-captain of the Avenging Angels tennis team and serves as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). She was one of 25 USA South Conference athletes selected to attend the NCAA Division III Convention in Nashville, Tenn.

“The NCAA Division III Convention was an incredible experience, and it was an honor to attend,” said Laura Anne. “I enjoyed meeting the athletes from other schools at the social and luncheons, and I became friends with people we compete against.”

The Fayetteville, N.C., native has also taken advantage of the opportunities that the College provides off the tennis court. In her two years, she has served as a member of the 1891 Club and participated as a skit dancer for Cornhuskin’. She also had the opportunity to conduct HIV research with Associate Professor of Biological Sciences Karthik Aghoram, who she said has been very helpful throughout her time here.

Transferring to Meredith gave Laura Anne the opportunity to play college tennis and give something back to her college. She credits Meredith for building self-confidence and courage within her, and allowing her to develop her strengths and become an even stronger woman.

“I believe the real strength of a person and what we call ‘Meredith Strong’ is what is deep inside you and what makes you stand out as ‘This is who I am,’” said Laura Anne. “You must play to your own strengths. For me, that is sense of humor, perspective, and determination. I have tried to learn from my mistakes, laugh at life’s craziness, and keep trying even when it seems impossible.”

Because of her success on the tennis court and in the classroom, she garnered a scholar-athlete award that she is proud and honored to have received.

After graduation Laura Anne would love to use her last year of tennis eligibility and pursue a master’s degree before heading to law school. She is looking at various schools including Meredith as possibilities for the fall. She plans to take the LSAT in June and then apply for a 2018 admission to law school.

“Coming to Meredith College has been the best decision of my life,” said Laura Anne. “I wish that I had come here all four years. Wonderland really is the best place to be, and I am going to miss it so much.”

Find out more about Meredith Avenging Angels Athletics.

Learn more about the biology major and Meredith’s general education program.