As part of a Northeastern University Dialogues of Civilization course this spring, Odessa Sanchez traveled to Indonesia to study how small island states confront climate change.
But nothing prepared her for the mountain of trash in Bali that dozens of families call home.
Sanchez, a senior international relations major, was one of 24 students in the course, “Small Island States: Climate Change Vulnerability, Adaptation and Resilience,” who visited the Suwung landfill — known locally as “trash mountain.”
There, they watched children scavenge through piles of waste, collecting plastic bottles to sell.
“You have a 2-year-old child picking through trash,” Sanchez says. “There are multi-generational families living in these dumps, and that’s their livelihood.”
Side by side with poverty are the Balinese organizations implementing innovative strategies to cope with pollution and climate change — strategies that the students spent five-and-a-half weeks exploring deeply.
From providing hotels with equipment to compost food waste to supporting small farmers to filter waste water for irrigation, nongovernmental organizations on Bali are attacking environmental issues from all sides, says Northeastern student Liam Cmok Kehoe, who is pursuing a master’s in environmental science and policy.
Read more at Northeastern Global News
Courtesy Photo
Ever wish you had insight on whether the plants in your home garden are really thriving?
A group of Northeastern University researchers recently developed sensors that change color to indicate the health status of plants. This can be used not only for your basic house plant, but could be used to help small farms monitor their crops in the face of environmental stressors like weather shifts, pollution and disease.
“It’s filling a gap,” said Josie Cicero, a master’s student in marine biology at Northeastern and one of the co-authors on the research.
Current methods for checking plant health are very expensive, Cicero said.
“[They] take a long time to process, and aren’t accessible for a lot of people,” Cicero said, “whereas this device allows you to do an assessment on the stress level of plants in a couple minutes in the field instead of having to collect samples, send them off and spend hundreds to thousands of dollars to get the results a week later.”
Read more at Northeastern Global News
Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University
For Kimi Nguyen, an applied mathematics master’s student with concentrations in data science, being selected as the student speaker for the 2025 College of Science Graduate Celebration represents a fitting conclusion to her Northeastern journey.
“It is a tremendous honor,” Nguyen says. “As a PlusOne student who also completed my undergraduate degree here, Northeastern has been a second home to me for many years.”
The selection holds special significance for Nguyen. “Closing out my time at Northeastern as the speaker this year is a bittersweet and meaningful way to end this chapter,” she reflects.
Growth Beyond Equations
While Nguyen’s academic journey has certainly strengthened her skills as a mathematician, her Northeastern experience fostered growth in multiple dimensions.
“I’ve grown as a person — in how I communicate, how I handle conflict, and overall, who I am,” she explains. “Each year, I find myself more different than the person I was the year before.”
This evolution from high school student to graduate student represents significant personal development that parallels her academic achievements.
Giving Back to the Math Department
When asked about her proudest accomplishment, Nguyen points to her contributions to the Mathematics Department. “It was never about recognition; I simply enjoyed it,” she says.
Her involvement spanned numerous initiatives, from participating in Bridge to Calculus to taking a leadership role in MathEMA and representing the math and PlusOne programs to prospective students. These efforts became especially meaningful considering that her undergraduate years began during the challenges of COVID.
“I am proud of how much I was able to give back to the community that gave so much to me,” she notes.
The Beauty of Late-Night Study Sessions
Some of Nguyen’s favorite memories revolve around late-night study sessions with fellow students. “Whether it was in the math lounge or at Snell Library, staying up late grinding through assignments with friends became a surprisingly special ritual,” she shares.
Though difficult in the moment, these experiences created lasting bonds. “We would get frustrated, tired, and hungry—but somehow, it bonded us. And even though, at the time, it was terrible and exhausting, we would all still show up the next day to do it all over again.”
This perfect encapsulation of the college experience—”It was the best of times; it was the worst of times”—reflects the unique camaraderie formed through shared academic challenges.
Campus Connections
As graduation approaches, Nguyen will miss the campus environment and the vibrant community of the Mathematics Department.
“I’ll miss running between office hours, the busy semesters spent side by side with friends and a whiteboard, and the small but meaningful moments — like sitting at Centennial Common after finals, reflecting on how far we’d come,” she says.
Her deep appreciation for the Math Department stands out in her reflections: “I am deeply grateful for my time at Northeastern, and I credit the math department, above all, for making it so special.”
Looking Forward While Appreciating the Present
Currently working full-time at Loomis Sayles as a Custom Income Strategies Associate, Nguyen plans to eventually apply to Ph.D. programs in mathematics, applied math, data science, or engineering. She’s also considering returning to Cambodia, where she completed her undergraduate co-op.
Looking back, she offers advice to first-year students that resonates with many graduates: “It’s so cliché, but I would tell my first-year self to slow down and enjoy the moment.”
Throughout her time at Northeastern, Nguyen was often focused on what came next graduating, building a career, and moving forward. Now at that transition point, she has a new perspective: “Now that I’m actually stepping into that next chapter, I look back with a sense of melancholy and gratitude for my time at Northeastern.”
Her parting reflection captures both the anticipation of a new graduate and the nostalgia of a completed journey: “While ambition is important, these moments—both the highs and the struggles—are what make the experience truly special. Because five years could not have gone by any faster.”
Northeastern professor and coral reef expert Steve Vollmer was working as a lifeguard in California when he first learned about the Three Seas program that would change his career trajectory — and his life.
At the time, Vollmer — a surfer with a biology degree from Colorado — was talking with a coworker who was counting wave sets at Huntington Beach. He shared that he was applying to graduate schools in Hawaii and California, hoping to pursue marine biology.
There was just one challenge: despite his love for the ocean, Vollmer had no experience studying it.
“She said, ‘Steve, you need some experience. Go to East West,’” which is what the Three Seas program was called back then, Vollmer says.
Accepted into the program, he traveled the world and met scientists who inspired him to go on to get a Ph.D. in marine biology.
“It was awesome,” says Vollmer, an associate professor at Northeastern’s Marine Science Center who teaches a Three Seas course on coral reefs. “The program did exactly what I needed it to do.”
Read more from Northeastern Global News.
Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University
Northeastern University’s highest student and faculty achievers across its 13 global campuses were celebrated Wednesday at the 15th annual Academic Honors Convocation.
Excellence in scholarship, research, teaching and advancing the university’s mission earned members of the Northeastern community their place on the stage at Blackman Auditorium in Ell Hall on the Boston campus.
“When we look at all your achievements and all that you have done, we are extremely excited about the future of this university, the future of this nation and indeed the future of this world,” Joseph E. Aoun, president of Northeastern, told the audience. “We cannot afford to be pessimistic when we see the enormous talent in this community. Our future is in your hands, and I want to thank you.”
Joining the honored undergraduate students, graduate students and professors in the lively hall were family, colleagues and friends. Music was provided from the stage by the Northeastern Wind Ensemble.
“Over the past year, you — our honorees — have achieved new heights in scholarship, research, teaching and innovation to embody Northeastern’s core values of interdisciplinary collaboration, infusing experience and entrepreneurial thinking into everything you do and developing solutions with global impact,” said David Madigan, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “From research laboratories to art studios, from classrooms to field work across our global network and around the world, you have pushed the limits of what is possible, challenging yourselves, inspiring your peers and truly elevating our university community.”
Read more from Northeastern Global News.
Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University
Graduate student Kobe Miller came to Northeastern University from New Zealand to study sports leadership in 2023.
This 9,000-mile leap led him to a job in youth development at the Boston Celtics.
On Tuesday, Miller, a high-performance rower and athletes’ mental health advocate, was one of 100 graduate and professional students inducted into the inaugural Laurel and Scroll 100 Society of Distinction — a Northeastern graduate school equivalent of the university’s Huntington 100.
Laurel and Scroll 100 and Huntington 100 collectively are known as Northeastern University Societies of Distinction that honor outstanding students for achievements aligning with the university’s mission, ideals, values and academic plan.
“It’s a real honor to be able to leave my mark here at Northeastern,” Miller said. “It is amazing to be recognized among some really talented and hard-working people in all different fields, especially as an international student.”
President Joseph E. Aoun, a steadfast supporter of the creation of the Laurel and Scroll 100, congratulated the inductees, saying that being nominated for this fellowship meant they have made an impact on their professors, friends and colleagues.
“This is very meaningful,” Aoun said.
Read more from Northeastern Global News.
Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
After high school, I pursued a degree in biology, driven by my passion for the life sciences. However, my curiosity for technology, particularly software and computational tools, led me to explore the intersection of biology and data science.
Bioinformatics perfectly blends these fields, allowing me to bridge my biological background with computational techniques. Pursuing an MS in Bioinformatics has been the ideal way to satisfy my curiosity and deepen my understanding of this evolving discipline.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
I am currently seeking a co-op position for Summer 2025 and actively applying to various opportunities. In Summer 2024, I completed a pre-co-op course that equipped us with essential skills for the co-op application process, including resumé/CV reviews, cover letter writing, and interview preparation. I found this course invaluable in understanding the significance of every keyword in a resume or cover letter, ensuring a more strategic and effective approach to job applications.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I currently serve as a student representative for the Bioinformatics program in the Program Advisory Committee (PAC). Additionally, I represented the College of Science (COS) as a student representative at Northeastern University’s Open House event. These roles have allowed me to actively contribute to the program and engage with prospective students, providing insights into the curriculum and student experience.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
My journey in COS has been incredibly rewarding. Although our campus is small with limited infrastructure, the faculty and staff have been exceptionally supportive. They are quick to find solutions and always guide us in a clear, positive direction. Additionally, the on-campus activities organized by COS have been invaluable in helping students like me build connections and expand our network within the campus community.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
From my first semester in Bioinformatics, Professor Oyeronke has had a significant impact on me, shaping my thought process and encouraging me to think outside the box. She takes the time to understand our challenges, provides clear solutions, and pushes us to go beyond our limits.
At the beginning of the semester, Professor Oyeronke told us that she wouldn’t spoon-feed us; in a master’s program, we needed to change our way of thinking. This advice has been incredibly valuable in all my subsequent learning.
Yash Maheshbhai Patel ’25, MS Bioinformatics
Additionally, Professor Oyeronke has always been accessible, allowing us to reach out to her on Teams whenever we face issues. She responds promptly, offering the guidance we need. Her approach is truly inspiring, as she focuses on fostering genuine learning rather than just completing assignments for the sake of the curriculum.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you?
Over the past year and a half, I have experienced significant growth. Starting as a novice in bioinformatics, I have developed a strong understanding of programming in Python and R, and gained hands-on experience working with real-world genomic data. After graduation, I look forward to pursuing a career as a computational biologist or junior bioinformatics scientist, as part of my first professional role.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
After graduating from Northeastern, I will continue serving as a PAC member until 2027. During this time, I aim to make a positive impact on the curriculum, enhancing its learning criteria to benefit future students. As for my personal aspirations, it would be a dream come true to work in the bioinformatics field, particularly in rare disease research and cancer studies. I hope to contribute to research efforts that can make a meaningful difference and help people in the future.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
I’ll be honest with you: pursuing a science degree is not just an opportunity, it’s a privilege. You’ve worked hard to get to this point and earn your place in the world of science, but the journey ahead will be challenging, perhaps even more than you expect. However, believe me, all the hard work and struggles will be worth it in the end. You won’t just gain knowledge, but you’ll develop new ways of thinking and approaching problems. You’ll level up your skills in ways you can’t even imagine right now.
Think of yourself as raw gold subjected to heat and pressure in the furnace of this journey. Though the process may be tough, just like gold, your value will only increase, and you’ll emerge stronger and more refined. Keep going, it’s all part of the transformation.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I would like to give a special shout-out to the tours organized by the university. One that stands out to me was the visit to the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR), which was truly inspiring. It provided an incredible opportunity to witness cutting-edge biotech and bioinformatics research in a real laboratory setting. Additionally, the university also arranges recreational tours, such as trips to the Ripley Aquarium and Niagara Falls. These tours are a great way to bond with peers and enjoy some time together outside of the academic setting.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
Having lived in such a wild environment myself, I’ve always felt very connected to the natural world and the ocean. From a young age I knew I wanted to become a scientist to study and learn from nature.
In high school I studied the influence of marine plastic pollution and the regeneration of sea stars. After witnessing a curious case of sea star wasting disease throughout my own experiment, it became even more clear that I wanted to explore anthropogenic influence on natural environments.
Seeing environmental change in my hometown and the heavy hand we play in degradation, I’ve grown passionate about a future with sustainable co-existence and mitigative practices inspired by nature.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
During my undergrad co-op, I worked as a sustainable battery engineer for a start-up company. I learned so much about energy and the potential impact a sustainable approach to energy storage could have in the world of renewables.
The summer of my junior year, I participated in a Dialogue of Civilizations program that traveled to Iceland and learned about the local geology, geothermal energy, Icelandic history, and their environmental significance. I’ve never seen such immense and overwhelming demonstrations of both the earth’s power and beauty like I did that month of camping around Iceland.
Windsyr Maughan ’25, MS Environmental Science and Policy
The summer of my junior year, I participated in a Dialogue of Civilizations program that traveled to Iceland and learned about the local geology, geothermal energy, Icelandic history, and their environmental significance. I’ve never seen such immense and overwhelming demonstrations of both the earth’s power and beauty like I did that month of camping around Iceland.
It’s so exciting to work in a field that continually offers new inspiration and wonder.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I’ve been on the Women’s Varsity Rowing team for four years, explored numerous outdoors and environmental clubs, and been involved with Northeastern’s songwriting club.
Recently, I started working as a volunteer in Professor Brian Helmuth’s lab under PhD candidate Angela Jones where I’ve been able to learn about sea star morphology and begin investigating sea star wasting disease along the Northeastern Coast.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
I have truly enjoyed expanding the scope of my knowledge while in COS. There are so many interesting courses that have given me a broad background of inspiration and appreciation for environmental processes. Hands-on field work, learning, and friendships from my Dialogue of Civilizations program as well as research and diving at the Marine Science Center were definitely highlights of my COS experience.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
I was really inspired by Professor Dan Douglass’s energy and excitement for Earth Systems. During my Dialogue of Civilizations, I was impacted by Professor Malcolm Hill, learning about his career journey and Icelandic connections. When deciding on my master’s and future career path, Professor Ben Dittbrenner was so insightful and helped me get to where I am today. Working with Professor Brian Helmuth, I’ve been inspired by the far reaching societal and scientific impacts of his research and collaborations.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you?
After graduating from the Environmental Science and Policy PlusOne program with a master’s degree, I would love to gain international experience working with the UN / UN’s Environment Programme while also exploring a career in restoration and scientific diving. I hope to also have an opportunity to study the implications of climate change within the environment and mitigative solutions.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
After my time here at Northeastern, I hope to be able to create global impact and contribute to healing relationships between humans and the environment. I hope to be influential with my knowledge of the natural world and contribute to climate change mitigation.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Don’t be afraid to explore different paths and fields of study, take every opportunity for hands on experience, and maintain the connections you make along the way. You never know what path an opportunity might lead to, and even something that seems unrelated could prove beneficial to your future career path. Interdisciplinary collaboration plays a large role in expanding the world of science and innovation so be curious and think outside the box.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
My inspiration stems from a desire to help people achieve a better quality of life while dealing with incurable diseases, or at least to offer them hope that future advancements may enable them to overcome these challenges.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
I recently started looking for a co-op program that would allow me to reinforce my knowledge. This process has been very inspiring and, above all, very challenging because often the answers are not what I expect. However, when the answers do come back, it motivates me to continue.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I was a Student Ambassador, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with several prospective students, sharing my story and what we did in the program. I found it to be a great experience in terms of communication.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
The highlight has been the opportunity we have had to share our stories from each semester with our career director and associate director of graduate operations. This interaction has made the career very enjoyable because they have always been concerned about us and, above all, have always helped us.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
I think that first of all Suzzette Turnbull and Sahar Tavakoli have been the people who have helped me the most in this journey since I started, they have had a good communication with everyone and have helped us, but above all I think they are an inspiration to show every day the good direction of a race.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you? (i.e., dream job, next steps such as a graduate program)
I believe the next step in my career is to join a co-op program at a biotech company that will enable me to conduct research and, above all, learn much more.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
I want to help people by being part of a research team that seeks cures for diseases that currently have none, which can enhance life, especially in countries where therapies are less advanced, and most importantly, make prices more affordable.
Valery Pamela Trujillo Benitez ’25, Cell and Gene Therapies
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Studying science is challenging, and when conducting research, the results are often not what you expect. However, you can start from scratch until you succeed, so I believe perseverance is something that no one should disregard when entering the field.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
My favorite moment was when the university showered us with foam snow and showcased various talents, including the cheerleaders. The photo at the top captures that moment, while the photo at the bottom resembles one of my favorite places, Boston Common. My favorite moment was when the university showered us with foam snow and showcased various talents, including the cheerleaders. The photo at the top captures that moment. while the photo of the bottom resembles one of my favorites places the Boston Common.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
The excitement of studying and working on something like genetically manipulating diseases, which seemed like a far-fetched dream, but now is a reality, is what made me choose this degree. Realizing that it might not be my entire future, I’m glad I made the decision to pursue this field of study. It turned out to be a thrilling and exciting journey of cell and gene therapy lessons and professional life lessons.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
Us Cell and Gene Therapies students had a different experience than the other COS students. One of the highlights includes our semester dinners with Professor Sahar Tavkoli and Associate Director Suzzette Turnbull. These moments of communication and working through things boosted my confidence throughout the year from being a girl with mild social nervousness to speaking my thoughts in an open forum.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
I currently work part-time at the BATL/Life Sciences Testing Center on the Burlington campus. My manager, Mike Stanger, and supervisor, Eduardo Sanchez, have been my mentors since I started volunteering during my first semester. Being a part of their team has greatly impacted me professionally and personally.
Working in an extremely dynamic environment on a daily basis has taught me how to stay on my toes, manage my time, navigate through a team, and develop many other skills one would expect to have in one’s professional journey.
Subhiksha Srinivasan ’25, Cell and Gene Therapies
The experience was an eye-opener in my life, for which I’m very grateful.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you?
It is a bit uncertain now, but I’m pretty sure I’ll figure it out before I complete my co-op.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
I love explaining or educating people who don’t understand too much about technical life science. I hope to continue doing what would be a means of helping people and maybe kick-start the development of life science enthusiasts.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Science is all about being passionate about how the world works and trying to be a part of the play. Taking advantage of every resource (even if it is the age-old encyclopedia) provided to you would be my first and most important advice. The rest will always follow about where you want science to take you. It also tests one’s patience, so not giving up is also a piece of advice I’d give anyone who wants to pursue science.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
Initially, I aspired to become an oncologist, but circumstances led me to a different path. My deep-rooted interest in life sciences and my passion for advancing biological research drew me to biotechnology. The field offers limitless potential in understanding diseases, developing therapeutics, and innovating healthcare solutions, making it a perfect fit for me.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
Yes, I am currently completing my co-op as a Quality Control Operations at BlueRock Therapeutics.
The experience has been exceptional, allowing me to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting while gaining hands-on expertise in quality control, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency within a biopharmaceutical company.
Sreenithi Giri Gogulan ’25, Biotechnology
The role aligns well with my interests and educational background, making this journey truly rewarding.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I am currently learning Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form that demands discipline, grace, and dedication. Additionally, I am an avid reader and enjoy watching movies in my free time, which helps me unwind and stay creatively inspired.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
Some of my most fulfilling experiences include securing a co-op at BlueRock Therapeutics, serving as a Graduate Student Ambassador for the College of Science, and mentoring peers as a Peer Mentor. These roles have allowed me to contribute meaningfully to my academic community while refining my leadership and interpersonal skills.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Absolutely. Several mentors have played a pivotal role in my academic and professional journey:
Aswin Sundarakrishnan, who provided invaluable guidance during my co-op interview process.
Carol Hannam, a constant source of support and motivation for students, fostering both academic and professional growth.
Tricia DeYoung, who continuously encourages and challenges students to reach their full potential.
Their mentorship has significantly shaped my confidence and career aspirations.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you? (i.e., dream job, next steps such as a graduate program)
I haven’t fully figured out my next steps yet, and I am completely okay with that. However, I do know that I want to build a career in Research & Development within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
I want to represent Northeastern’s values of student development and empowerment. My journey is a testament to the idea that growth happens at the right time, and with confidence, hard work, and adaptability, success is inevitable. I hope to inspire future students to embrace challenges, trust the process, and remain committed to self-improvement.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Science is an ever-evolving field that thrives on curiosity, resilience, and innovation. It is not just about learning facts; it is about problem-solving, critical thinking, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Research, in particular, is a highly creative process that challenges you to think beyond conventional frameworks. I encourage students to embrace uncertainty, enjoy the process of discovery, and remain passionate about their pursuit of knowledge.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
When I think about what inspired me to dive into biotechnology, it’s really a mix of my personal fascination with the field and the incredible opportunities I saw, especially here in the US and at Northeastern University.
I’ve always been captivated by biotech. There’s something amazing about using biological processes to solve real-world problems. Whether it’s developing new treatments for diseases or finding sustainable solutions for industries, biotech offers this perfect blend of scientific discovery and practical application that really speaks to me.
Choosing to study in the US was a no-brainer. The ecosystem here is unmatched – top-notch universities, cutting-edge research centers, and a thriving biotech industry. It’s an environment where innovation is not just encouraged, it’s expected.
But what really sealed the deal for me was Northeastern University.
Northeastern’s approach to education and research in biotech is exactly what I was looking for. The co-op program is a game-changer. It gives me the chance to get real-world experience in leading biotech companies while I’m still studying. That’s invaluable.
Saran Bhattacharyya ’25, Biotechnology
And it’s not just about the co-op. Northeastern’s facilities are top-notch, which is crucial for the kind of research I want to do. They also have this great interdisciplinary approach, which I think is essential in biotech. You can’t work in a bubble in this field.
What I also love about Northeastern is their focus on entrepreneurship. Biotech is such a dynamic field, and having that entrepreneurial mindset is super important. Plus, their global network is incredible. It opens up so many doors, both for my time at university and for my future career.
All of this – my passion for biotech, the opportunities in the US, and everything Northeastern offers – it all came together to inspire my choice. I’m excited about the possibility of making real contributions to the field, maybe even discoveries that could make a difference in people’s lives. That’s what keeps me going. It’s what gets me excited to hit the lab or dive into a new research paper. This field is always evolving, and I can’t wait to be part of shaping its future.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
I actually just landed a co-op position that I’m really excited about! I’m working as a QC/QA at Quality CDMO in Texas. It’s been an eye-opening experience so far, to say the least.
The cool thing about this role is that I’m getting to dip my toes into a bit of everything. One day I’m in the lab, the next I’m on the manufacturing floor, and then I’m diving into document control. It’s giving me a really well-rounded view of how a company operates.
I’m getting hands-on experience with some pretty advanced equipment too. I’ve been working with RP-HPLC and FTIR, which is awesome because I’d only read about these in textbooks before. It’s one thing to study the theory, but actually operating these machines is a whole different ball game.
They’ve also got me learning some new software systems. At first, it was a bit overwhelming, but I’m starting to get the hang of it. It’s definitely a valuable skill to add to my resume.
What I really love about this co-op is that it’s with a startup. The energy here is different – everyone’s wearing multiple hats and there’s this sense of building something from the ground up. It’s been both a learning experience and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully. I feel like my ideas are actually heard and considered, which is pretty cool for a co-op student.
The flip side of working at a startup is that there’s a lot of responsibility. I’ve had to really step up and hold myself accountable. There’s no handholding here – if I mess up, it could have real consequences. It’s a bit scary sometimes, but it’s also pushing me to grow faster than I ever have before.
Overall, this co-op has been an incredible experience so far. It’s giving me a real taste of what a career in biotech looks like, and I’m loving every minute of it. I can already tell that what I’m learning here is going to be invaluable when I get back to my studies and eventually start my career.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I’ve been involved in a variety of extracurricular activities that have really added to my overall experience. One of the highlights was being part of the dance group at NU Sanskriti. As a passionate dancer, it was such a joy to express myself through dance and connect with others who shared the same enthusiasm. It gave me a great outlet to unwind and stay creative.
In my downtime, I also loved playing pool and table tennis. It was a fun way to take breaks, meet new people, and keep things light amidst all the hustle of academics and work.
But what truly stands out for me is my role as the Vice President of External Affairs at Graduate Student Government. That position was an incredible opportunity to step into leadership and take on responsibilities that pushed me out of my comfort zone. I got to represent students, collaborate with different teams, and explore areas of work I hadn’t been exposed to before. It taught me so much about communication, teamwork, and what it means to serve as a leader.
Altogether, these activities have been such an important part of my journey, helping me grow both personally and professionally while making some amazing memories along the way.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
The College of Science has been such incredible for me. I think what really stands out is how they’ve structured the courses. It’s not your typical textbook-heavy, lecture-only kind of deal. They’ve really put thought into keeping everything up to date with what’s happening in the industry right now.
The assignments have been a breath of fresh air too. They’re not just about regurgitating information – they actually push us to think creatively and apply what we’re learning to real-world scenarios. It’s challenging, sure, but in the best way possible. I feel like I’m actually building skills that’ll be useful once I’m out there in the job market.
But the absolute highlight for me has to be the mandatory co-op program. That’s been a total eye-opener. Getting to step out of the classroom and into a real work environment, putting everything we’ve learned into practice – it’s invaluable. Plus, it’s giving me a taste of different career paths and helping me figure out what I really want to do after graduation.
So yeah, I’d say the College of Science has really nailed it with their approach. It’s not just about cramming information into our heads – it’s about preparing us for the real world, and I’m loving every bit of it.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Absolutely! I’ve been really fortunate to have a few professors who’ve made a huge impact on me during my time here.
First off, there’s Dr. Christa Dhimo. She taught “The Biotech Enterprise” course, and she really opened my eyes to the business side of biotech. Her real-world experience in the industry was invaluable. She has this way of breaking down complex concepts and making them relatable. I remember leaving her classes feeling like I’d just gained insider knowledge about how biotech companies actually operate.
Then there’s Dr. Angie Cornwell, who taught “Cutting-Edge Applications in Biotechnology.” Her class was mind-blowing. She’s so passionate about the latest advancements in the field, and it’s infectious. She really pushed us to think critically about how these new technologies could be applied. I found myself getting excited about possibilities I’d never even considered before.
And I can’t forget Professor Alexander Susienka, my co-op advisor. He’s been an absolute game-changer for me. His guidance in helping me navigate the co-op process has been invaluable. He really took the time to understand my interests and goals, and he’s been instrumental in helping me find opportunities that align with what I want to do in my career.
These three have really shaped my experience here. They’ve each brought something unique to the table – industry insights, cutting-edge knowledge, and practical career guidance. I feel like I’ve grown so much as a result of their mentorship.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you? (i.e., dream job, next steps such as a graduate program)
When I think about where I’m headed, I get pretty excited. I’ve got this vision of becoming both a solid scientist and a strong leader in the biotech industry. It’s like, I want to have my hands in the lab work, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, but also be in a position where I can guide teams and make big-picture decisions.
It’s a pretty ambitious goal, but what drives me is that I want to be that person who can bridge the gap between the technical side of things and the business aspects. Someone who can speak the language of science but also understand the market dynamics and what it takes to bring a product from the lab to the people who need it.
Right now, I’m thinking my next step might be to get some more hands-on experience in the industry after I graduate. Maybe find a role in R&D at a biotech company, where I can really dive deep into the science. But I’m also keeping my options open for grad school down the line. I feel like a PhD or an MBA, or maybe both, could really set me up for that leadership role I’m aiming for.
The dream is that I’d love to be heading up a research division at a cutting-edge biotech firm, or maybe even starting my own company someday. I want to be at the forefront of developing new therapies or technologies that can make a real difference in people’s lives.
It’s a long road ahead, for sure. But every class I take, every lab experiment I run, every project I work on – it’s all building towards that goal. I’m just excited to see where this journey takes me!
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
When I think about the impact I want to make after leaving Northeastern, it’s all about taking everything I’ve learned and experienced here and using it to make a real difference in the biotech world.
I mean, this place has given me so much – from the hands-on experience in my co-op at Quality CDMO, to the creative assignments in my courses, to the leadership skills I gained as VP of External Affairs at GSG. Not to mention the incredible mentors like Dr. Dhimo, Dr. Cornwell, and Professor Susienka who’ve shaped my understanding of the field.
My goal is to take all of this and become a leader who can bridge the gap between cutting-edge science and practical business applications in biotech. I want to be part of developing new therapies or technologies that can improve people’s lives. Maybe that means heading up a research division, or who knows, even starting my own company someday.
No matter where I end up, I’ll always have a soft spot for Northeastern. This place has been such a big part of my journey. I’d love to find ways to give back whenever I can – maybe guest lecturing, mentoring students, or collaborating on research projects. It’d be awesome to help future students have the same kind of transformative experience I’ve had here.
Ultimately, I want my time at Northeastern to be just the beginning of a career where I can make a lasting impact in biotech. And if I can inspire a few more students to pursue this field along the way, even better. This place has given me so much, and I’m excited to pay it forward.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Alright, so any student is thinking about diving into a science degree, here’s my experience:
First off, everyone should get ready to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on. Theory is great, but nothing beats practical experience. Like, my co-op at Quality CDMO in Texas is a total game-changer. I got to play with advanced tech like RP-HPLC and FTIR, stuff I’d only read about before. So, everyone should look for programs that offer internships or co-ops. They’re gold.
Next, no one shall just stick to their textbooks. Get involved in extracurriculars. I danced with NU Sanskriti and even served as VP of External Affairs at GSG. These experiences taught me leadership skills you just can’t get in a lab.
Speaking of labs, we should make the most of them. They’re where the real learning happens. And no one should be afraid to get creative with assignments. The best courses I’ve had challenged me to think outside the box.
Finding good mentors are equally important as that have been incredible in shaping my path. They bring real-world insights that textbooks just can’t match. Staying current with what’s happening in the industry. Science moves fast, especially in fields like biotech. The courses that kept us up to date with market trends were the most valuable.
Finally, we should be open to where our degree might take us. I came in thinking I’d be a pure scientist, but now I’m aiming to blend science with leadership in the biotech world. Lastly, I would suggest to enjoy the ride. Science can be tough, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. When we’re working on something that could make a real difference in the world, it makes all the hard work worth it.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
In Northeastern and in COS, there have definitely been ups and downs – late nights cramming for exams, stressing over lab reports, moments where I questioned if I was cut out for this. But looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.
I’m just incredibly thankful for this whole experience. The opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve met, the skills I’ve gained – it’s all been pretty amazing. Even the tough times taught me something valuable.
So yeah, I guess if there’s anything I’d like to add, it’s just a big thank you. To the professors who pushed me, the classmates who supported me, and the whole Northeastern community. This journey has shaped me in ways I never expected, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.
It’s been challenging, sure, but also incredibly rewarding. And I’m just grateful to have been part of it all.