Tennessee State University

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Tennessee State University is a world-class university known for academic excellence, incredible students, inspiring faculty, exceptional value and an amazing campus and community. We invite you to learn more about TSU and our academic programs, admissions process, tuition and financial aid, campus visits, student housing and more.
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Tennessee State University is dedicated to helping students develop the skills needed for the real world. Our vibrant campus life, leadership opportunities, rigorous academic programs, access to scholarships and student services are just a few of the student services we offer. We are preparing career-ready professionals today for knowledge-based jobs tomorrow. The Tiger legacy continues with you.
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TSU loves parents! And we encourage you to stay involved with your Tennessee State University student. We strive to make the transition to college and beyond flow as smoothly as possible for everyone. We'll keep you up-to-date on campus happenings through a monthly eNewsletter, a helpful Parent Guide and through many other programs and events. We're here to help you and your student make the most out of your TSU experience.
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At Tennessee State University, our blood runs blue! We enjoy connecting, socializing and sharing news about the great things our alumni are doing across the globe. From our annual Homecoming celebration to donor events and volunteer activities, TSU alumni always find time to celebrate what it means to be a Big Blue Tiger. We welcome you back to campus anytime to rekindle your most memorable experiences.
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Welcome to Tennessee State University, located in the heart of Nashville, one of the nation's most progressive cities! Whether you are here for your first visit, planning a campus tour or returning after many years away, TSU welcomes you to enjoy our facilities, hospitality and our unique history and contributions.
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Tennessee State University is proud to have 1,200 distinguished administrators, faculty and staff members as part of our team. With outstanding reputations for teaching, research and service, these professionals make valuable contributions to our community of scholars and ensure that TSU is a thriving public institution of higher learning.

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Derek Platt

Class of 2015 | College of Agriculture, Human and Natural Sciences | Cell and Molecular Biology major & Chemistry minor

Derek Platt

Derek originally came to Tennessee State University because of the athletic program. He entered as a football player and played his freshman year. Since his focus at the time was his athletic endeavors, he came to TSU to play football since the student-athlete graduation rate was 88 percent.

The Luray, Tenn., native is now focusing on his studies and decided to major in biology during his senior year of high school after completing AP Biology and falling in love with the subject. After graduation Derek plans on going into the Medical Scientist Training Program where he can combine his passions of research, medicine and helping others.

“I will earn my Ph.D. in the areas of infectious diseases, microbiology and immunology to study host-pathogen interactions and pathogenesis at the cellular and molecular levels,” said Derek. “In conjunction, I will earn my M.D., complete a residency in internal medicine and become an infectious disease specialist, therefore providing me access to the clinical realm while I conduct research. My career goals are to run a translational biomedical research laboratory and treat patients.”

Derek was recently awarded the Outstanding Undergraduate Student from the College of Agriculture, Human and Natural Sciences. He credits the faculty for their hard work, professionalism and caring.

“The CAHNS has immensely changed my life. I do not know where I would be if it were not for the incredible faculty members who have guided and nurtured me.”

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