Go Big Grad: Benna Martin

Photo Credit: Benna Martin
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 06:26

Major: Chemistry
Minor:
English
Hometown:
Syracuse, NE

What does graduating from Nebraska mean to you?
I am the first in my family to graduate from college. So not only does graduating mean so much to me, it means a lot to my family. Especially my mom who is a caregiver to my 2 younger sisters who are both autistic and nonverbal. She had and has a lot of dreams that she hasn’t been able to do because of her responsibilities to my sisters. Part of this diploma is for her, she would have loved college and I’m hoping one day I can help her take some classes that she is interested in.

Transformational moments
I am a transfer student who started at SCC to take some of my general classes. The first class I took at UNL was Organic Chem 1 with Dr. Vickrey. This class was one of the most difficult classes I’ve ever taken because you are learning a completely different language of science. I struggled a lot through the first and second exam. I was certain I wasn’t going to pass but i worked hard with Dr. Vickrey to catch up and pass that class (which I did!). During this we became friends and I really enjoyed learning about her journey in science and she really inspired me to continue on in my science education journey.

Involvement
Chemistry club. Cycling class. CPR class.

Plans after graduation
Currently (and for the past 2 years) I have been working for the state for my younger sisters as a provider of care and I plan to continue doing that as to help my family. I also would like to work in a lab in a hospital as a lab assistant. I don’t currently have a job lined up because I am going to take the summer to relax, travel, and help my family.

I am most looking forward to
Less stress and more travel.

The best thing about being a Husker is
The community of people.

Thank you message
Thank you to Dr. Vickrey who pushed me to be a better student, person, and scientist.