Senior Leadership Committee
Eva Deegan (co-chairs)
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: edeegan2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Environmental Sciences
Research: I work in the Jones lab on carbon modeling.
Post-Graduate Plans: I hope to attend grad school and continuing studying Environmental Science
Favorite Biology/ES course: My favorite ES course was General Ecology lab.
Extracurriculars: I'm a TA for General Ecology lab. I'm a part of French club and have been a part of the mock trial team the past two years. I'm also a coop crew leader in my dorm Lewis, go chicks!
Advice for Freshmen Environmental Majors: My advice would be to not get too concentrated on what everyone around you is doing but to focus on what is fulfilling to you and what you want to put your energy towards. This can apply to school, clubs, and relationships!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I lived in France for a year between high school and college.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: There is nothing better than campus on a game day weekend.
Shannon Steines (co-chairs)
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: ssteines@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences & Spanish; Minoring in Compassionate Care in Medicine and Glynn
Research: I work as an undergraduate researcher in Hyde lab. I spent my last summer completing a COS-SURF internship to finish my senior thesis project, titled "Characterizing the Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) During Retinal Regeneration in Zebrafish." I was also an author on the review paper "Retinal Regeneration Requires Dynamic Notch Signaling," published in the Journal Regeneration Research. Before working in Hyde lab, I worked in Dr. Dahl's lab at Harper Cancer Research Institute, studying the effect of nanoparticles on macrophages.
Post-Graduate Plans: I hope to attend medical school next year.
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics and aquatic ecology lab
Extracurriculars: President of AMWA, Executive Board of Model United Nations, Lyons Hall RA, Women's Club Boxing, Irish dance/whistle classes, Howard Hall Secretary, CSC (2 Appalachia, 2 SSLPs), Notre Dame Tour Guide
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Take advantage of the opportunities that SLC offers- whether it is in career development or camaraderie, I have been better off for every event I attended:) I truly believe we have the major on campus in terms of students and faculty!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I have lived in five different places growing up!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: South Bend River Walk (the white water rafting course is very fun too!)
Abigail Abikoye
She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: aabikoye@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences Minor: Poverty Studies, Anthropology
Research: Schafer Lab- We study the mechanisms by which cancer cells are able to survive in ECM detachment, and my project focuses specifically on those related to ferroptosis.
Post-Graduate Plans: Gap Year, then Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Intro Bio/Med Micro
Extracurriculars: Scientia- Co Editor in Chief, RCLC Americorps Member, First Gen Careers Board for the CCD, Bio Club President, Inclusive Excellence Committee for the Biology Department
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: You will be okay! It's really easy to get caught up in the rigors of being an ND student and a science major but take all shortcomings as learning experiences and opportunities to grow. Make connections with your professors and get to know faculty members as well. There are so many encouraging and supportive people in the department and across the COS who want to see you succeed and are willing to help you navigate your journey here at ND. But also remember to enjoy your time as a student, finding things you love all over campus outside of academia.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I actually already have an Associate's Degree in General Studies!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Campus! It's really pretty and I enjoy taking leisurely walks around the lakes when its warm, especially around sunset.
Christina An
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: han2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences Major and Education, Schooling, and Society Minor
Research: Cancer/Neutrophil Research in Lu Lab
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School?
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: American Medical Women's Association, Shaw Center for Children and Families, Uplift, Early Childhood Development Center, AAA
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Bring snacks and iced coffee to long lectures!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I'm really interested in film and television! I spent the summer watching international film and tv shows.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: School spirit - Go Irish!
Christopher Archer
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: carcher2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences; Minors: Theology, Glynn Family Honors Program
Research: Vaughan Lab: NPC Disease
Post-Graduate Plans: Grad School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Medical Molecular Genetics
Extracurriculars: Tutor at Robinson Center, Interhall Sports
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Be open to trying different classes in order to find out what you truly enjoy. It is perfectly fine to not have your mind made up right away.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: My music video for genetics class was described, by the professor, as "kind of disturbing" and "not really about genetics".
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: South Dining Hall Grab 'n' Go
Marliece Barrios
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: mbarrios@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences & Philosophy Major
Research: Rohr Lab at Notre Dame, Lancaster Lab at Mayo Clinic
Post-Graduate Plans: MD-PhD
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics with Dr. Hyde
Extracurriculars: Chair of Diversity & Inclusion in Walsh Hall, Intern at Elkhart County's Center for Community Justice, ND Model UN, McNeill Fellow, Volunteer Lobbyist
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Your life is not your resume. Do things because you love them, don't love things because you do them. Dedicate yourself to pursuing emotional fulfillment. (Bonus advice: How tired you feel is based on the amount of sleep you get two nights before. Plan your last-minute orgo cramming sessions accordingly).
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: Instead of shoes I collect fun patterned socks (my special lucky pair are purple with frogs)
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Walsh Hall
Jonathan Couri
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: jcouri2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences Major (Cell & Developmental Biology track); Studio Art, Theology Minors
Research: (1) Ravosa Lab: helped collect data on mandibular condyle formation in rabbits to see how the bone is affected by different feeding modalities. (2) Global Health Thesis Research (through GPIC): will be leading a mixed methods study based out of Malawi that will focus on the experiences of pediatric health care workers in breaking bad news to patients and their families receiving palliative care.
Post-Graduate Plans: Dental School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Principles of Microbiology
Extracurriculars: Notre Dame Cheerleading, Global Partners in Care (GPIC) Intern, UPLIFT, Matriculate, Pre-Dental Society, Admissions Tour Guide, Global Medical Brigades, Junior Partners Weekend, Organic Chemistry I & II Lab TA, Biology II: M2E TA
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: It is ok to give yourself a break. Make time for those random 2-hour long conversations with your best friends. Go to campus social events. Take a long shower and watch a movie. The Krebs Cycle can wait a few hours.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: My go-to Karaoke song is FourFiveSeconds by RiRi.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The food scene!! Taco Tuesday at Evil Czech will never get old.
Andrew Crecca
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: acrecca@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Major: Biological Sciences; Minor: Musical Theatre
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: I am a producer and actor for PEMCo, a musical theatre group on campus. I also volunteer for the Notre Dame First Aid Services Team.
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: The biology/ES majors are a lot of work, so study hard but also strive to achieve balance and pursue different extracurricular, social, and academic opportunities. Achieving this balance and pursuing interests outside of biology/ES will make you a happier, more well rounded person and a science better student!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I'm obsessed with flamingos and flamingo clothes. I've got flamingo shirts, socks, shoes, suits, and even a flamingo tuxedo!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The Southwest Salad is definitely on the decline but it still slaps.
Joshua L. Davis
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: jdavis29@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences/ Science, Technology and Values
Research: I have done research at the Indiana University School of Medicine with two different professors through two summer internship programs. I was in a lab which focused on Kidney Injury and Mitochondrial disorders. I have also conduced cancer research at the Harper Cancer Research Institute with the Zhang Lab.
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics Lab
Extracurriculars: Genetics Lab TA, Volunteer Science Tutor, Hospital Volunteer
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Get to know your professors and Teaching Assistants through Office Hours and after class. They all want you to succeed and will help you through the hard times!!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: Despite living in the South Bend Area, I never thought I would attend Notre Dame until I took a visit and experienced all of the amazing students and Professors. Haven't looked back since and am loving the Fighting Irish!!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: St. Mary's and St. Joseph's Lakes. They are really awesome to jog around!!
Alex Dittmar
He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: adittmar@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological sciences
Research: O'Tousa Lab
Post-Graduate Plans: Either graduate school or medical school.
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Matriculate, Scientia, RCLC Tutor, Bio Lab TA
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Don't be afraid to go to office hours! It's a great way to get help and to get to know the professors. They are always willing to answer questions and provide support.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I love playing euchre and poker.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Notre Dame Stadium
Jack Garcia
He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: jgarci24@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences Major/Theology Minor/Biomedical Sciences Track
Research: I worked in the Champion lab for four semesters, conducting a transposon screen to study the ESX-1 secretion system in M. marinum.
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Medical Molecular Genetics
Extracurriculars: Biology Club, Uplift, Museum of Biodiversity Research Assistant, Introductory Bio Lab TA, Robinson Community Learning Center
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Leisure is best when it is earned. It's important to stay on top of your studies, but don't forget to find time for fun!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I play the piano and I'm in a band
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The campus and community
Joe Gentine
He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: jgentin2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Environmental Sciences, Economics
Research: Lamberti Stream and Wetland Ecology/Working on paper examine relationship between land use and wetland algae production. Museum of Biodiversity/work in herbarium stamping and numbering plants. UNDERC-East/project focused on effects of nutritional changes on zooplankton growth and survival.
Post-Graduate Plans: Graduate school or enter the workforce
Favorite Biology/ES course: Aquatic ecology
Extracurriculars: Folk Choir
Advice for Freshmen Environmental Majors: Don't worry, your plans will change.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I am certified to drive a fork lift.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: My friends
Shannon Gibson
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: sgibson4@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences Major /Science, Technology, and Values Minor
Post-Graduate Plans: Graduate School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Hall Council, Special Olympics, Intro Bio lab TA, Uplift Mentor, Interhall Sports
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Meet as many people as you can and become friends with other biology majors. Your classmates will be very helpful throughout your time at ND!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: Freshman year, my hall team won the flag football championship and got to play in the stadium
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Living with all of my best friends on the best campus in the world
James Gilman
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: jgilman2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences / minor in the Gallivan Program of Journalism, Ethics, and Democracy
Research: Rund Lab -- mosquito temporal biology
Post-Graduate Plans: Dental School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Uplift, BeeND, Pre-Dental Society, Texas Club, Student-Athlete Tutoring
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Make friends within your major! The inevitable struggles and triumphs are much more fun and memorable when shared with people who are enduring it too.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: My twin brother, Jonathan, is also on the SLC!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The path through the woods off of St. Mary's Road, especially when all the trees are covered in snow
Jonathan Gilman
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: jgilman3@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Environmental Sciences, Sustainability
Research: Tank Lab
Post-Graduate Plans: Graduate School
Favorite Biology/ES course: General Ecology Lab
Extracurriculars: NDIAS Undergraduate Research Fellow, General Ecology Lab TA, Texas Club, Bee Club
Advice for Freshmen Environmental Majors: Don't be discouraged if you are unsure of what lies after graduation! Figuring out what you don't want to do first is an easy way to develop your career path!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: My twin brother, James Gilman, is also on SLC!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The squirrels
Noah Gonring
He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: ngonring@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Environmental Science, Theology (Suppl.), Sustainability
Research: Jones Lab working on analyzing fish diets.
Post-Graduate Plans: Masters program in some form of agriculture
Favorite Biology/ES course: Planet Earth
Extracurriculars: ND Swim Club, Interhall Baseball, Fishing Club
Advice for Freshmen Environmental Majors: Your high school science classes gave you a great baseline for the science classes you will take at ND. That being said stay attentive in those classes and make sure you know the material at the college level. Being an ES or Bio major does not guarantee success in your science classes.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I lived on an organic farm in Hawaii for a month this summer!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The hype for ND athletics on campus and in the community.
Catherine Hammond
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: chammon2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences Major, Theology Minor
Research: Melanoma research lab at the Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, Center for Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases at the University of Maryland, Baltimore
Post-Graduate Plans: Graduate School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Biology I: Big Questions, Dr. Champion's Gene Editing Module
Extracurriculars: UPLIFT, Cell Biology Lab TA, Next Step Learning Reading Tutor, HCRIS, Interhall Sports, Howard Hall Altar Server, Howard Halloween & Halliday Commissioner
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Involve yourself within and outside of your major and get to know as many people and their different perspectives as possible!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I have 3 dogs and 1 cat
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The Notre Dame community. All of the amazing and welcoming people who make Notre Dame home.
Meg Hilbert
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: mhilbert@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Environmental Science / Sustainability & Studio Art
Research: I work as an undergraduate assistant in Dr. Tank's Lab on campus, researching the impacts of agriculture on stream ecosystems. Prior to Tank Lab, I worked for a semester as a research assistant in Dr. Belovsky's lab on campus, researching nitrogen cycling in Montana grasslands.
Post-Graduate Plans: I am planning to work and travel a bit after graduating, then will likely head to grad school to study Marine Biology.
Favorite Biology/ES course: Ecology
Extracurriculars: Student Policy Network, ES SLC, Sustainability Zine
Advice for Freshmen Environmental Majors: Get to know your professors (and go to office hours!) -- everyone says it, but it really is so helpful! I also recommend reaching out to faculty about lab work early on if you are interested in working in a research lab.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I do synchronized swimming.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: How beautiful our campus is! And, of course the wonderful ND community.
Emily Hunt
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: ehunt6@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences and Film Double Major, Accounting Minor
Research: Currently: Wingert Lab — stem cells in renal system development and regeneration. Previously: Cancer metastasis at the Harper Cancer Research Institute in the Zhang Lab and an independent cellular biology/vision research project utilizing CRISPR-Cas9 technology in conjunction with the O’Tousa Lab advised by Dr. Whaley.
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Physiology and Cell Research Lab
Extracurriculars: Harper Cancer Research Institute Society (HCRIS) President, Scientia Journal Co-Managing Editor/Editorial Board, Bio UPLIFT mentor, University Health Services Workgroup Student Representative, Student Government (Club Coordination Council, Executive Cabinet Health & Well-Being Department, former Diversity Commissioner for Lewis Hall Council), Undergraduate Women in Business (UWIB), and Notre Dame Film Society.
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: If there’s something you want to do — go for it. Don’t be afraid to dream big or try something new! There are so many amazing people and resources here ready to help you pursue anything you set your mind to.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I met Joe Gatto from Impractical Jokers when I used to work at Häagen-Dazs. They were in town performing a comedy skit at the arena next door to the shop I used to work at. He made me weigh the caramel cone ice cream he bought three times so if I'm secretly on an episode somewhere, let me know! In the meantime, you can watch me in this fun video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaXYSrqQMPo
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: It’s a toss-up between scooter culture, the grand piano in Jordan, and shifts at the Gug with Notre Dame Sports Nutrition (shout-out to Irish Fuel).
Janna Kotsen
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: jkotsen@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences / Minor in Compassionate Care in Medicine
Research: Prosperi Lab - Breast Cancer Research
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical school
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Club Operation Smile, Pasquerilla East Interhall Sports, Pasquerilla East Hall Commissioner, Uplift, Fighting Together, AFCI Club
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Try to build relationships with your professors! It may not be easy at first, but can prove useful in the long-run.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I grew up on a vineyard in California.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: My favorite part about Notre Dame would have to be football season. The whole community comes together in such a fun and exciting way.
Michael Lee
He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: mlee44@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biology (integrative track), International Development Studies minor
Research: In Summer 2019, I did research in Boston on malaria and cryobiology. I participated in the Cell Biology research experience with the Zhang Lab. I am currently working on a virtual capstone project for my minor that is evaluating community-based menstrual health programs in Jinja, Uganda.
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School with a gap year. I wiIl apply in the upcoming cycle.
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Asian American Association, Uplift, Taiwanese Student Association, Tour Guide, Keenan RA, Au Bon Pain employee, Lab TA
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: You will get to where you want to be, and it's normal for the path to be messy, long, and filled with mistakes. Take the time to explore your interests and find what works for you.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I have a bone on my wrist that I can pop in and out.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: All the amazing people I get to meet!
Kara Linder
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: klinder2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Environmental Science Minor in Anthropology
Research: Tank Lab and Research for Museum of Biodiversity
Post-Graduate Plans: Global Health Masters
Favorite Biology/ES course: Entomology
Extracurriculars: Fencing Team, Pre-Vet club
Advice for Freshmen Envirnmental Majors: Don't be afraid to take hard classes if you are interested in them.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: NCAA champion in fencing
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Chicory Café
Katie Lucenko
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: klucenko@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences and Theology
Post-Graduate Plans: Considering medical school after ACE or a year of service
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics with Dr. Hyde
Extracurriculars: Interhall sports, Notre Dame Right to Life, Compassionate Care in Medicine Club, RA in Pasquerilla East, genetics lab TA, Sorin Fellowship with the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture, volunteer at a hospice and a family practice clinic
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Your education at Notre Dame is about so much more than getting good grades and learning a lot about a particular subject; it's just as much about discovering who you are, refining your gifts and passions, and searching for what motivates you and gives you life: "The mind shall not be cultivated at the expense of the heart." Notre Dame is a special place filled with incredible people, so take the time to develop meaningful relationships with your peers and professors, and don't ever be afraid to ask for help if you need it!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I interned at an ob/gyn practice in Omaha, Nebraska this summer!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Notre Dame's community life is so special! As for South Bend, I love the Farmer's Market and its café!
Kyle McAvoy
He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: kmcavoy2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Mior(s)/Track: Biological Sciences/Poverty Studies/Cell and Developmental Biology
Research: McLachlan Labs- PalEON Project; O'Tousa and Whaley- CRISPR-Cas9 mediated mutagenesis of norpA in Aedes Aegypti and subsequent effects on Aaop1 localization
Post-Graduate Plans: Dual DDS/MD
Favorite Biology/ES course: CRISPR Biology Module with Dr. Champion
Extracurriculars: Student Council; South Bend Center for the Homeless Volunteer; Intermural Lacrosse
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Keep an open mindset with your coursework. I received one of my last ranked choices for my first semester bio module. It ended up being my favorite bio course I've taken and resulted in me studying CRISPR with Dr. Whaley.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I learned to become ambidextrous after breaking my left arm in 5th grade
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Football weekends and tailgating with friends
Anna McDonald
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: amcdon23@nd.edu
Major(s)/Mior(s)/Track: Major: Environmental Science Minors: Sustainability and Peace Studies
Research: Paper on Community Ecology and Tree Traits
Post-Graduate Plans: Graduate School
Favorite Biology/ES course: General Ecology Lab
Extracurriculars: General Ecology Lab TA, Howard Hall Sustainability Commissioner
Advice for Freshmen Environmental Majors: Don't be afraid to reach out to your peers or your professors for anything!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The sense of community all over campus that continues even when you leave campus!
Caroline Myers
She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: cmyers22@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences and Program of Liberal Studies
Research: Zhang Lab: Project focused on the effect of the gut microbiome on brain metastasis in mice Rohr Lab: Project focused on the potential for a vaccine against the amphibian chytrid fungus - Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis.
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical school after 1-2 gap year(s)
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics! Or cell biology lab (plug for Dr. V)
Extracurriculars: Manager for the Men's Hockey Team, CSC Core Team, CSC Seminar Leader, UPLIFT Co-Coordinator, Cell Bio TA, working in the PLS office
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Don't be afraid to talk to your professors, upperclassmen, or the person sitting next to you in lecture!!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I love to ski and go hiking!!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: I love going out to brunch in South Bend and going on walks around ND
Lilly Olsick
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: lolsick@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences; Compassionate Care in Medicine Minor
Research: Currently working in Dr. Richard Dahl's lab at Harper Cancer Research Institute; I have also worked in Dr. Jason Rohr's lab at Notre Dame testing a vaccine to prevent Bd fungal infections in frogs
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Notre Dame Marching Band, Uplift, Vice President of the Herbivore Society, Emergency Room Volunteer
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Go to office hours and build a good relationship with your professors and peers! Also, remember to study hard because it will definitely pay off.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I am notoriously known for making super impulsive decisions (but they always turn out to be the best/most fun choices)
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: I love going to the Grotto at night
Olive Robson
She/Hers
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: Orobson@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biology Pre-Med
Research: O’Tousa Lab
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Research & Junior Class Council! Also volunteer at a Hospice care facility and an HIV/AIDS clinic in south bend.
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Don’t get overwhelmed! All biology majors are different, don’t compare yourself to other people even if they are in your same classes/major. You are right where you need to be! Also, be present. Enjoy undergrad!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I’m a transfer from Loyola Chicago.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: I lovveee the football games!
Andrés Rodríguez
He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: Arodri35@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences/ Compassionate Care in Medicine Minor
Research: Importance of Normothermic Devices in Short-Pediatric Surgery at Campbell Clinic Orthopedics
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Biology I: Immune System
Extracurriculars: Preprofessional Society, Compassionate Care in Medicine Club, Multicultural Pre-med Society, Notre Dame Martial Arts Institute, Knight of Columbus
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors:
Make sure to use all the resources available to you! This includes your professors and TAs, Office of Student Enrichment, McWell, and more.
If you find yourself in need of anything, there is a very good chance Notre Dame has a way of helping you out!
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I am from Colombia!
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Duncan Student Center. This is the only place in campus where you can get food, study, workout, and have a great view of Notre Dame Stadium!
Jack Sauter
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: jsauter2@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biology major with Biomedical Sciences Track, Studio Art and Theology minors
Research: I work in the Hyde Lab where I study the genetic mechanisms behind regeneration following traumatic brain injury in zebrafish.
Post-Graduate Plans: Graduate School or an MD-PhD program
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics
Extracurriculars: Uplift, Morrissey Wellness Commissioner, Genetics TA, interhall sports
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors:
Get to know your professors! Classes become a lot easier to engage in when you know the people behind your professors.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I've lived in 7 different states
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: The community/ quarter dogs
Reed Stevens
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: rsteven8@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: I am a double major in Theology and Biology on a premedical track.
Research: I recently completed a semester of community- based research where I tested a local private school for elevated levels of particulate lead. I plan on performing abatement measures this year and will continue working with Dr. Lieberman’s lab.
Post-Graduate Plans: I intend on pursuing a psychiatric specialty in medicine (hopefully at Michigan State University).
Favorite Biology/ES course: My favorite biology course so far would have to be Genetics Lab with Dr. Whaley.
Extracurriculars: I am a member of the Irish Guard, the lead student manager of South Dining Hall, a TA for Organic Chemistry Lab, and one of the lead coordinators for the Fisher Regatta.
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: I would recommend that you don’t take college too seriously. What I mean by this is that you shouldn’t try to make yourself sound like a LinkedIn. Actually involve yourself in activities that sound appealing to you-you have all your life to work.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I’ve backpacked almost every national park in the Midwest on my quest to complete all 63.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: My favorite thing about Notre Dame is the natural beauty on campus. There are always new spots to explore.
Calla Sullivan
She/Her
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: csulli24@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biological Sciences & Anthropology majors, Glynn Family Honors Program
Research: O'Tousa Lab at ND, Green Lab at MD Anderson (summer)
Post-Graduate Plans: Gap year then medical school
Favorite Biology/ES course: Tumor Cell Biology
Extracurriculars: Notre Dame Dance Company President, Dance Co Juniors Volunteer, Biology Club Officer, Intro Bio Lab TA, Take Ten Volunteer, Family Medicine Center Volunteer
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Try not to compare yourself to other bio majors! Do things that genuinely interest you according to your own timeline.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I used to dance with JoJo Siwa
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: God quad at night
Jeremy Sutterer
He/Him
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: jsuttere@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biology Major, Compassionate Care in Medicine Minor
Research: Partnered with Dr. O'Tousa lab studying visual system in Aedes Aegypti mosquitos this past semester in Dr. Whaley's Independent Cell Research Course. I will be working in the O'Tousa lab this semester doing the same research
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: M2E with Dr. Veselik
Extracurriculars: Volunteering at South Bend Center for Homeless, Inter hall Soccer, Cashier at ND Bookstore, Volunteering at St. Joseph Family Medicine Center in Mishawaka
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Don't try to do everything yourself. Your friends will be your most valuable asset in moving through undergrad.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I play in an instrumental prog rock/metal band
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Football weekend, dining hall meals
Jim Twist
Graduation Year: 2023
Email Address: jtwist1@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Major: Biology; Track: Biomedical Sciences; Minor: History
Research: Dr. Hyde's Lab: Studying the role of the extracellular matrix during retinal regeneration in zebrafish.
Post-Graduate Plans: Medical School
Favorite Biology/ES course: Genetics Lecture & Lab
Extracurriculars: American Red Cross volunteer, Basilica Lector, Genetics Lecture TA, Right to Life Club, Ronald McDonald House volunteer, Uplift mentor, Volunteer pianist at hospitals in Buffalo, NY and South Bend.
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Congratulations! You are in the BEST major ND has to offer. I switched my intended major to bio at the end of Freshman year, and it was one of the best decisions I have made at ND. No other major is as tight-knit as biology. Take advantage of this by making friends with other intended bio majors. Not only are they awesome people, but they may even become your lifelines.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I come from a hardcore Notre Dame family, and I'm 1 of 7 in my family to go to ND.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Football weekends and watching campus transform into its gameday atmosphere. Also, Midnight Drummer's Circle!!
Brian Villa
Graduation Year: 2022
Email Address: bvilla@nd.edu
Major(s)/Minor(s)/Track: Biology/Compassionate Care in Medicine (CCIM)
Research: Olson lab at Indiana University South Bend (across the road). We study biochemical mechanisms of sulfur derived signaling species in the human body. Most recently we have been hypothesizing novel antioxidant pathways of commonly known antioxidants (like coffee, matcha, green tea, berries, etc) through the lens of reactive sulfur species. We do this by measuring the levels of reactive sulfur species and specifically polysulfides in buffer and cell lines. We are starting to look into oxidation and inflammation in cancer cell lines as well. Exciting times in the O Lab!
Post-Graduate Plans: Applying to Medical School this cycle
Favorite Biology/ES course: Intro Bio 1&2 Lecture AND LAB
Extracurriculars: Biology Uplift Mentoring Program. TA for Intro Bio and Cell Bio Labs. Compassionate Care in Medicine Club & Minor. Robinson ELC. DNA Learning Center. Dillon Hall Govt. Hammocking around campus.
Advice for Freshmen Biology Majors: Work super hard and enjoy the ride, it will be over before you know it! Don't hesitate to email absolutely ANYONE when you need help or have a question. Most of the time you will get a response back, profs don't bite! Oh and don't forget to go to the football games.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I have spent an immeasurable amount of time in the biology students lounge, you will probably see me there.
Favorite part of Notre Dame/ South Bend: Sunset views of the dome from the library, the first snowfall snowball fight, and the trees around campus in the fall