The Nebraska Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA) Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program has welcomed 26 undergraduate students from across Nebraska as they embark on their summer research experience at Creighton University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and UNMC.
Below, Marlene Djidjoho talks about her INBRE experience.
What should we know about you?
I’m the oldest of four, trilingual, and have been in the United States for six years. I’m a bookworm, enjoy running and tennis. Currently, I attend the College of Saint Mary and am majoring in biology with a minor in psychology.
What or who influenced your interest in science?
My interest in science was first influenced by my mother, a nurse. At a young age, I was introduced to science. My interest was reinforced through my science classes in high school. During my high school years, I enjoyed all aspects of science to which I was introduced. I decided then to pursue my career in science, specifically the medical field.
What is it about science that excites you?
Learning and lab experiments excite me, but applying knowledge and lab results to living things, specifically humans, excites me the most about science.
Will you pursue a career in science? If so, what do you hope to accomplish?
Yes, I will pursue a career in science. I hope to become a psychiatrist.
Why is it important to have programs like INBRE?
Programs like the INBRE give me the opportunity to experience and do research. It provides students with the right tools and skillsets to do research at a professional level. Moreover, it provides guidance and mentorship to introduce research to students. Because of the INBRE, I have an idea of what graduate school entails, and I’m acquiring the skill sets needed to do proper and safe research. Moreover, I’ve been introduced to different labs and play a role in acquiring the right data necessary for the experiment.