NAME: Anna Vernier
HOMETOWN: Prospect, Kentucky
MAJOR(S): Chemistry (ACS track)
MINOR(S): Mathematics
YEAR IN COLLEGE: Fourth

Tell me about life pre-NKU. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in the suburbs near Louisville. Before I was six, I lived in Nevada, Colorado and Connecticut. I also lived in Michigan for my freshman year of high school. I did not enjoy high school very much, and it made me feel fairly apathetic about education. However, I loved to learn despite my distaste of most of the high-school-experience (mostly having to wake up early every day), so I decided to pursue higher education.

Why did you choose NKU? What kept you here?

I chose NKU arbitrarily. One of my best friends was already going here and my other best friend had this school on her list so we decided to go here just so we could all stay together. Ended up being one of the best choices I've ever made. The chemistry department is so incredible, I cannot imagine getting a better education at any other school.

Can you tell me a little about what you're studying here?

I study Chemistry and the track I am on is essentially general chemistry (not specialized for medicine or any specific profession). It is certainly not the easiest major, but it is absolutely a fulfilling one.

Could you tell me about the best of your experiences as an NKU student so far?

I would have to say that being a part of the Chemistry Department has largely been the source of my fantastic experience at NKU. The family-like atmosphere, caring professors and fun classmates have all contributed to that. Specifically, undergraduate research in Dr. Russell's lab has been an amazing experience and opportunity.

Have you had any memorable internships or co-op experiences?

I was chosen for an REU (research experience for undergraduates), which was a paid position for full-time research, including an all-expenses-paid trip to Quebec, Canada to attend an international chemistry conference and connect with a group of other undergraduates from around the country who were also a part of the REU.

Also, I began research by participating in the UR-STEM program, which was also a paid position.

What kind of job would you like to have after you graduate?

I plan to take a year off before attending graduate school for Organic Chemistry. For this following year, I would love to find a position in a research lab to add to my research experience before graduate school. My ultimate goal is to work in research, ideally in academia or in a government position (i.e. medicinal or materials).

Did you study abroad during your time here? If so, tell me about your experience.

This past summer, I did an internship abroad in Lannion, France. This internship was organized by Dr. Lagadic in the Chemistry Department who works on an exchange program to allow students from NKU to travel to other countries to conduct research in different chemistry or biochemistry research labs, and to allow for the same opportunity for international students to come to NKU. I lived in the small town of Lannion for 2 months, working full-time in an organometallic research lab. This was certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, in which I learned about much more than just chemistry. I learned about French culture and myself much more than I would have ever expected.

Describe NKU in one word.

Accessible.

What’s your favorite class?

Organic chemistry was my favorite class.

Where is your favorite spot on campus? What makes that spot so special?

The chemistry lounge in the science center. I have spent many days and nights in that room studying for exams, writing reports or just hanging out with my peers.

Where’s the best place to study on campus?

When you walk out of Einstein Bro's into Steely library, turn left after the help desk and go in that area with the individual desks. That has always been my go-to. Also, the study rooms in Steely are fantastic.

What is your greatest passion?

Simply put, helping people. There is no greater satisfaction than to improve the lives of others.

What is your favorite NKU memory?

Hanging out with my chemistry friends in the Chem Lounge.

What advice would you give to a first-year student?

Make friends! Study with people in your major and hang out with them outside of studying! You have no idea how important having this support group is.