Major: Chemistry

Class Year: Senior
Hometown: Lititz, PA

     From a young age, Justin has always loved science.  He chose Millersville University for several reasons, including its academic programs in science and its location. He entered as a biochemistry major but realized early on that his interests were mainly in chemistry in general.   The strong chemistry program at the University made his decision easy.

     As a commuting student, adjusting to Millersville was not challenging.  However, once he joined the American Chemical Society on campus, he felt like he belonged.  This organization was beneficial to him and he believes that to hold true for other majors' associated student organizations.  On-campus, getting to know and learn from the faculty is one of Justin's best experiences. This is because they are always there to help their students and they genuinely care about how they succeed.  Justin's favorite class in the chemistry program was polymer chemistry.  His extracurricular activities include an REU (Research Experience for Undergraduates) at the University of Southern Mississippi and research on vinyl epoxides with Dr. Laura Anna.  Not only are the classes preparing him in his major, but he has the opportunity to study in modern science facilities and labs with new, state of the art equipment.  After his research experience at Southern Mississippi, Justin believes the equipment and the science facilities at MU are as good as in larger schools. He has never felt like he could not do something because the University did not have the facilities or equipment.

     After graduation, Justin plans to apply for graduate school to pursue a PhD in chemistry.  The professors in the chemistry department have prepared him and his classmates for the obstacles they may face in graduate school.  His advice for first-year Millersville students is, "Find the school that best suits your needs academically and also has an environment that you enjoy."