Michael Hu ’14, a biochemistry major in Syracuse University’s College of Arts and Sciences was one of 13 students to participate in the ninth annual Winston Fisher Seminar. Here’s what Michael had to say about the experience:

1.) Why did you apply to participate in the Winston Fisher Seminar?

I originally heard about the WFS my junior year from an advisor in Arts & Sciences, unfortunately it was after the deadline passed, so I applied this year as a senior. The reason why I was interested in the program, despite being a biochemistry major pursuing medical school, is that I want to do more than just patient care in the physical sense. The field of medicine is a business itself, so it only made sense that the doctors administering treatment understood the financial side of hospitals along with streamlining a system that seems quite cluttered.

2.) What was the most rewarding part about participating in the Winston Fisher Seminar?

The most rewarding part about the WFS was definitely meeting all the alumni, who were all very successful in their careers, and seeing their passion for Syracuse University. I never understood the saying that “we all bleed orange” until this past week. Each speaker shared invaluable knowledge that helped better shape my aspirations down the road. I never knew how important a liberal arts degree could be and the different ways it helped each alum during their life.

3.) Why do you think a liberal arts education is not only important, but valuable in the business world?

A liberal arts education creates a mindset of critical thinking, as well as differentiating between wisdom and knowledge. School can teach you a lot of knowledge through studying material from the past, but wisdom can only be achieved by processing knowledge towards understanding the future. Wise individuals who make thoughtful life choices are more likely to succeed in their job and life. Post-college life is not about spewing back facts learned from a textbook, it’s about knowing how to properly interact with those around you.