“Biochemistry/Molecular Biology professors are very accessible and foster a very positive and helpful work environment.”
Coming to Gustavus as an intended STEM major, Ashley decided to major in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology as in intersection of her two favorite science fields: Biology and Chemistry.
Within the program, she has found an extremely supportive and collaborative community that she has grown close with. The students within the major all share a passion and can go through challenges together in a supportive way. Ashley points to Friday Fika, in which students and faculty gather to share treats and conversations, as something that has helped foster the community feel.
Ashley has appreciated the small class sizes within the major, which have allowed her to become closer with her peers and have more in-depth intellectual discussions.
Ashley has also had opportunities to engage in various research and experiential learning opportunities. Through her required Chemistry Seminar course, Ashley was able to connect with a guest speaker and eventually participate in a research experience at the University of Iowa. Additionally, she was able to do research at the Mayo Clinic through the Gilyard/Peterson Fellowship, which is offered by Gustavus. Of these experiences, Ashley says, “They made me a better scientist and a better human.” She is grateful for the connections that the department has given her to participate in experiences like this.
Ashley has also appreciated the course material within the department and the challenges that it poses for her. The faculty within the program have been supportive both in terms of course material, as well as helping navigate opportunities post-graduation. Of the faculty within the department, Ashley says, “My Professors believe that I can do everything I want to do.” While figuring out a future career plan, Ashley has felt supported by her faculty, who have given her connections and ideas to help her make decisions and be successful.
Outside of her work within the department, Ashley is also involved on campus with the Gustavus Wind Orchestra, Building Bridges, Pep Band, as an Academic Assistant and TA.