CHEMISTRY AND INDEPENDENCE: Crystal Patterson plans on majoring in chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin in the fall. Patterson was inspired to pursue chemistry due to her parents, who were both chemists. Patterson’s ultimate goal is to become a doctor. While Patterson was an auto-admit applicant, meaning she was able to automatically be accepted into the university, the culture of the campus drew her in as well. According to Patterson, the campus also provides comfort due to the fact that it is in her hometown. “I’m excited to go to the football games, and I also just love that it’s my hometown,” Patterson said. “I grew up here, and my mom will be close by but not too close.” Patterson was also accepted into the Freshman Research Institute at UT, which means getting to research certain topics and perform experiments with the aid of professors. Patterson is excited for this opportunity. Patterson will miss her friends at McCallum who have not yet graduated; however, Pa...