My journey at Waynesburg University has been slightly accelerated, as I am graduating with the Spring 2026 class instead of my originally expected Spring 2027 class. Though I'm leaving a year early, my time at Waynesburg is among the most meaningful experiences of my life.
From the beginning, I explored opportunities in forensic science, applying to programs across the East Coast and gaining acceptance. However, my path quickly evolved when, during first year, I joined the 2021 NSF funded project titled "Directed Evolution of Cytochrome P450 for Synthesis of Pyrrole Marine Natural Products." Through this experience, I discovered my passion for developing novel therapeutics with real-world medicinal applications, recognizing the impact that drug advancements can have on improving patients' lives.
This passion led me to switch my major to Pharmaceutical Science and pursue minors in Biomedical Research and Chemistry. Throughout my time at Waynesburg, the Chemistry research laboratory in Stewart Science Hall became a second home, where I spent countless hours immersed in experimentation and discovery. Failed experiments and flawed protocols led to vulnerable lessons and gradually shaped me into the researcher I am today. In the past few weeks, I have been able to reminisce on the endless hours spent in the lab and say goodbye to my notebook, now filled cover to cover, which will stay stored alongside the others as a reflection of all the dedication invested into my time here. After being awarded the American Chemical Society (ACS) Organic Division Undergraduate Award this year, finding the thin-layer chromatography (TLC) plate from my very first synthesis I performed still tucked away in my drawer during decommission became a powerful moment of reflection on how far I have come.
My research experiences expanded beyond campus through a Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) in Puerto Rico focused on the Molecular Aspects of Pharmaceutical Science (UPR-MAPS). These opportunities strengthened my hands-on laboratory skills and gave me confidence in my abilities as a researcher and providing me the opportunity for diverse collaboration.
I have had the privilege of sharing my work at the University’s annual research symposium, where I received the Best Oral Presentation award in both 2025 and 2026. Additionally, student communities I have been blessed to be a part of at Waynesburg, such as the ACS Student Chapter (as vice president) and the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh Student Affiliates (as president), have provided endless opportunities to network with professionals, present original research, and volunteer to encourage engagement in science.
In August 2026, I will begin pursuing a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, continuing the journey that began at Waynesburg and shaped my passion for scientific discovery.
