Nicole Beuschel

Community College: Grand Rapids Community College

Hometown: Comstock Park, MI

High School: Sparta High School

Major at Hope: Chemistry

What do you find exciting or interesting about your major?

Our knowledge of Chemistry is always changing, and its principles hold promise for future breakthroughs in medicine.  I want to understand its basis, so I will be prepared to utilize its potential.

What are your career plans at this time?

I intend to pursue a medical career either as a researcher or as a practitioner. I hope to become a part of improving the quality of life of people suffering from chronic diseases. 

Describe your summer research project.

I am working in the Laboratory of Tumor Metastasis and Angiogenesis at Van Andel Research Institute.  This lab is currently focused on creating an accurate method to predict more beneficial therapies for patients with cancer.  Both miccroarray technologies, used to look at a patient’s gene expression, coupled with bioinformatics tools, allows for matching these genes with targeted therapy options.  The main effort is to establish a more personalized plan for patient populations.

What are some of your favorite activities outside of your school work?

I enjoy skiing, playing tennis, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

What were some influences on your decision to attend Hope?

I asked both professors and professionals which college had a strong Science curriculum, and Hope was the most consistent response.  Also, I learned that Hope gives a great deal of assistance in planning for graduate or medical school.