Major: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Why did you choose your major?
Going into Cal Lutheran, I was not originally a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major as I had originally chosen to study Biology. Taking courses such as General Chemistry and Introduction to Cells and Organisms during my freshman year intrigued me to learn more about the chemical processes of life. My professors from these classes taught in such a way that allowed me to be curious and think deeply about all the wondrous chemical processes that contribute to our daily lives. I was also curious about research and believe that the lab classes here at Cal Lutheran have encouraged a space to explore and develop skills that would prepare students for graduate school and industry.
Would you recommend it to a future student? Why?
I wholeheartedly recommend Biochemistry and Molecular Biology to future students at Cal Lutheran. This major offers a unique chance for students to grow in terms of their interest in science while equipping them with essential skills for further academic and career pursuits.
What are your future plans?
In the future, I plan to attend graduate school and work in the Biotechnology industry. As a Latina in STEM, I would like to have an impact on improving human health and combating diseases, and believe the knowledge and skills I am receiving at Cal Lutheran will definitely nurture that goal of mine.
Are there any particular experiences — in or out of the classroom — that have helped you identify that path?
An invaluable experience that helped me identify my interest in research as a career path was participating in the OURCS summer research program as part of the John Stauffer Research Fellowship Program. This opportunity allowed me to pursue a project and conduct research that enhanced my laboratory and critical thinking skills. Working in the lab environment enabled my ability to think quickly and draw upon knowledge from previous courses, including biochemistry, organic chemistry, and quantitative analysis. I am immensely thankful for the chance to work under Dr. Hanrahan and receive mentorship from all of the biology and chemistry professors throughout my journey at Cal Lutheran.
Aaliyah is a recipient of a 2023 John Stauffer Research Fellowship in the Chemical Sciences. With her faculty mentor, Grady Hanrahan, PhD, she is working on a project titled, “Design and Development of H2O2 and Free Radical Antioxidant Scavenging Assays from Natural Medicine Components.”