Name
Quinten Kreikemeier
Major(s)
Chemistry
Minor(s)
Business Administration
Year in school
Sophomore
Hometown
Lincoln
Why did you select your major(s) and minor(s)? Were there any events or people that convinced you to declare?
I selected chemistry due to my interest in becoming a dentist someday. When touring the College of Dentistry as a senior in high school, I talked to many dental students about their undergraduate experiences and what they studied in. The top 3 answers that I received were chemistry, biochemistry, and biology. I chose chemistry because of my interest in taking on a new challenge that will still prepare me for my future goals.
What is your favorite course you have taken from your program(s) and why?
I think the most important classes that I have taken were the general chemistry courses. General chemistry introduced me to what difficult classes in college look like. Specifically, Chemistry 109 taught me how to study effectively and manage my time well on test weeks. What made Chemistry 110 my favorite course was being able to apply the mistakes of 109 towards a fresh start and practice habits that would ensure success in the class.
Who have been some of your strongest mentors or role models here?
I have a mentor who is a dentist here in Lincoln, and I know him through something called The Experience Company, a non-profit organization founded to give undergraduate students mentors throughout their college experience. Ben has been super helpful in guiding me towards my dental career aspirations by making sure I am doing the proper things such as working, shadowing, and volunteering before my application to dental school is due.
Experiential Learning
Have you had an internship or job? If so, please describe it and explain how your major(s) helped you with it.
I work in the college of dentistry on east campus as a dental assistant in the orthodontics clinic. I work with residential doctors and other faculty members to learn how to assist a dentist. Through this role, I have learned effective communication in a dental office, how to assist doctors when they need help, and how to mold and print retainers for patients to bring home which saves doctors a lot of time.
What are you involved in on campus or in the community?
I am involved in NHRI leadership mentoring, Beta Theta Pi, and Pre-dental club.
What are your plans after graduation?
Attend dental school to further my education and prepare me for a professional career.
