Conducting Organic Chemistry Research

This summer I participated in the UW-Madison research experience for undergraduates (REU) in Chemistry and Chemical and Biological Engineering. I conducted Organic Chemistry research in the Schomaker lab, where we were attempting to induce regio- and enantio- selective insertion of nitrogen into simple organic building blocks. Outside of the lab, I attended lectures by various UW-Madison Chemistry and Chemical Engineering faculty and several seminars and workshops focused on applying to and excelling in graduate school.​

​Although I learned a lot of technical laboratory and research skills in the Schomaker lab, the information I gained about life after undergrad was the most valuable thing I learned this summer. Participating in the REU and working closely with graduate students gave me critical insight into the graduate school experience, insight that prior to this summer I had no exposure to. I had always considered graduate school to be the default option for me after undergrad; ironically, although my experience at UW-Madison confirmed that graduate school was something that I want to pursue, conversations with Professor Schomaker greatly expanded what I considered to be my options. Whereas before I had planned go for a masters degree right after undergrad, I am now thinking about working in industry for several years first, then going for a PhD. Regardless of what I decide to do, I am now able to make a much more informed decision.​

Internship funded by the CXD Funded Experiences and Skills Fund.​