Marissa Mendez-Santiago

Marissa Mendez-Santiago

Major

Biochemistry (Pre-Medicine)

Minor

Chemistry

Lincoln, NE

First Gen

Why you chose your major

After taking AP Chemistry and AP Biology in high school, I knew that I wanted to continue to studying these subjects in college. Therefore, biochemistry was the perfect mixture of both science courses and will allow me to prepare for a healthcare profession.

Favorite and/or most impactful course

My General Chemistry I class has had the biggest impact on me because it has given me the opportunity to show my potential in a STEM career. After hearing rumors and stories of college chemistry, I was scared for my own experience. However, I had a great professor my first semester at UNL and I was able to form a great relationship with her! I sat at the front row during every lecture and she would come up to me to check on my progress. She also emailed me after every exam and has been a great support since!

Research or internship experience

The summer before my freshman year, I had the opportunity to participate in a Summer Research Bridge program through TRIO and then continue during the academic school year in the First Year Research Experience (FYRE) program. This program has given me the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research and gain experience in a biochemistry lab! I currently work in Dr. Riekhof's Lab in the Beadle Center, where I work with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and lipotoxicity. I have learned a lot of valuable laboratory skills, which have proven to be helpful in course lab settings as well! I have also discovered a passion for research and cannot wait to continue participating in research throughout the rest of my undergraduate career!

Other involvement

I am currently a member of the Mexican-American Student Association, Minority PreHealth Association, and TRIO Student Support Services. I am also completing service learning through my ALEC 102 course at UNL, where I currently volunteer at Catholic Social Services!

Why you chose Nebraska

I chose to come to Nebraska because I wanted to stay close to home. As a first-generation student, I wanted to be able to share my college experience with my family by staying in my hometown.


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