Splash Biography



MICHAEL DUELL, Yale first-year studying English



Major: English/Pre-Med

College/Employer: Yale

Year of Graduation: 2028

Picture of Michael Duell

Brief Biographical Sketch:

Michael Duell, born on August 13, 2006, in New York City, now resides in the suburban community of Westchester, NY. A first-year student at Yale University, Michael is pursuing a dual focus in English language and literature and a Pre-Medical Track. This unique combination reflects his diverse interests and his desire to explore both the humanities and the sciences.

Michael has had the opportunity to engage in a variety of academic and extracurricular activities. He has published research on Emily Dickinson, an experience that deepened his appreciation for literary analysis. His internship at a virology lab at Columbia University provided valuable insights into scientific research and its applications. Additionally, he has organized intergenerational writing workshops, which have been a rewarding way to connect different generations through creative expression.

In high school, Michael received the Scholastic Gold Key Award for poetry and achieved a top ranking in debate competitions in New Jersey. These experiences helped him develop critical thinking and communication skills that he continues to build upon in his studies.

Outside of academics, Michael enjoys writing poetry, knitting, and playing the piano. He is also dedicated to reproductive health and volunteers with Planned Parenthood, reflecting his commitment to social issues and community service.

Looking ahead, Michael hopes to attend medical school and specialize in obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN). His goal is to integrate his interests in literature and medicine in a way that contributes meaningfully to both fields. With a strong foundation in both creative and scientific pursuits, Michael is excited about the future and the opportunities to make a positive impact.



Past Classes

  (Clicking a class title will bring you to the course's section of the corresponding course catalog)

H4945: The Pill Mifepristone: Medical, Legal, and Ethical Perspectives in Splash Fall 2024 (Nov. 09, 2024)
In "The Pill Mifepristone: Medical, Legal, and Ethical Perspectives," students will gain an in-depth understanding of mifepristone, a critical medication used in medical abortions. The class will begin with a comprehensive lecture that covers the scientific, legal, and ethical dimensions of mifepristone. The lecture will start by explaining the medical aspects of mifepristone, including its mechanism of action, how it is used in combination with misoprostol to induce a medical abortion, and its effectiveness compared to other abortion methods. It will also address the controversial history of mifepristone’s development and its impact on reproductive healthcare. Following the medical overview, the lecture will delve into the legal landscape surrounding mifepristone. This will include a discussion of key legal cases and regulatory changes that have shaped the availability and accessibility of the drug, as well as current legislative trends and their implications for reproductive rights. The lecture will also cover the ethical considerations related to mifepristone. Topics will include debates around reproductive autonomy, access to healthcare, and the broader social and political context of abortion rights. Students will be encouraged to think critically about the implications of these issues and how they affect individuals and society. After the lecture, the class will shift to a discussion or debate format. Students will be divided into small groups or pairs, with each group assigned specific topics or perspectives related to mifepristone. Discussion points may include the impact of recent legal restrictions on access to mifepristone, ethical dilemmas associated with its use, and the role of medical professionals and policymakers in shaping abortion care. The class will conclude with a summary of key discussion points, addressing any remaining questions, and providing additional resources for further exploration of the topic. Students will leave with a nuanced understanding of mifepristone and its implications for reproductive health and rights.