Chemistry Student Profiles
Ashley Nelson
Cincinnati, Ohio
Ashley Nelson describes herself as science-minded. "I've always enjoyed chemistry and math. The topics come easy to me, and I like them. That's why I am majoring in both professional chemistry and applied mathematics."
To gain additional research experience, Ashley participated in two research experiences for undergraduates (REUs). "My REUs provided me with the additional hands-on experience I needed to determine that I belong in graduate school doing research instead of medical school. Working in a lab allows me to discover the unknown. I get to find the answers." Ashley completed cancer research at IBM Almaden Research Center in San Jose, California, and nanoscience and nanotechnology research at the University of Iowa.
UE's small class size has benefited Ashley. "My professors know me. The course work has enhanced my critical thinking skills, and since being at UE, I have evolved as a person. I have discovered so much about myself."
Aaron Wiles
Madisonville, Kentucky
As a biochemistry major, Aaron Wiles has taken an equal amount of chemistry and biology courses in preparation for graduate school. In addition, he completed undergraduate research and participated in a job shadowing experience. "I shadowed an individual at Bristol-Myers Squibb in the research division. I've now been exposed to numerous career avenues such as pharmaceuticals, academia, and biotechnology."
As an undergraduate, Aaron spent two summers completing research experiences for undergraduates (REUs). His first summer he completed diabetes research at the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, and his second summer he was at the Vanderbilt School of Medicine researching cancer metastases. "In graduate school, I want to study immunology, and both of my REUs gave me valuable experience. I met a lot of people in the field, and I was even able to present my research findings at a research conference as well as a seminar."
It is the family-like atmosphere in the chemistry department that Aaron says he will miss the most once he graduates. "In the upper-level courses, you are in class with a lot of the same people, so you can encourage and help one another. Everyone brings something different to the class or lab, but you take something from each and add it to what you are learning. It makes you more rounded as a person." Yet, it is the personal attention he received from faculty members that impacted his Evansville experience the most. "As a freshman, it's hard to realize that your professors have been where you are, and just like you, they are still learning. They've taught me that it's OK not to know everything, but they have given me the tools to find the answers."
Kate Upton
Orange, California
Since the second grade, Kate Upton has wanted to be a scientist. Kate's experiences at UE have put her on the right path to meeting her goals. "One day, I will have my PhD. I want to keep learning as well as contribute to the scientific community." To help foster the scientific spirit in children, Kate has spent the past two summers volunteering at the Discovery Science Center near her home.
Kate chose UE for its size and nurturing environment. "I'm happy that I came to UE. I feel like a member of the chemistry department. My professors know me, and they take time to chat with me about topics unrelated to course work. They have encouraged me to apply for a summer research experience and are writing reference letters for me."
In addition to studying abroad for a semester at Harlaxton College in Grantham, England, Kate has spent the past few semesters working with Professor Renkema on an inorganic research project. "We are researching an organometallic catalyst for possible industry applications. I spend about eight hours per week in the lab. I wanted to gain the additional experience, and the hands-on aspect with the instrumentation has been excellent."
