Dominican University’s BLAST biology scholars traveled to Pennsylvania State University at the end of February to meet with alumna and mentor Anna Acosta ’22, who is pursuing her Ph.D. in Food Science. During the visit, the Dominican University students toured the campus and got an inside look at the research laboratories and collaborative learning spaces. They also listened to a series of flash talks as graduate students spoke about the diverse paths that led them to their advanced studies.
“This experience allowed our BLAST scholars to see how a biology degree can open doors far beyond traditional pathways. Hearing directly from Anna and the graduate students helped our scholars envision themselves in those spaces and recognize that their journey can take many different and exciting directions.,“ said AnnMarie DelliPizzi, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology, who accompanied the students on the trip along with Richard Flamio Jr., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Biology,
The students also went to the iconic Penn State Berkey Creamery, where they explored the science behind ice cream production and participated in the process, including doing some hands-on “quality testing.”
The BLAST (Biology for Low-Income Aspiring Scholars in Training) Program provides scholarships to high-achieving, low-income STEM students and aims to increase student retention and success by linking scholarships with co-curricular activities, including academic support, mentoring, and undergraduate research. The students meet with scholars from other universities or industries to be exposed to different career paths.