Colin Coggins

Name: Colin Coggins

Hometown: Bel Air, MD

Anticipated graduation: Spring 2022

Major: Biology

Minor: Biochemistry

Internships/Research/Projects:

Internship: Center of Genomic Interpretation (CGI); I am currently assisting in a project on data interpretation of how several main companies use variant classifications for cancer-causing genes or suspected cancer-causing genes in a clinical setting and how to better use these classifications. This is an ongoing issue as there is no federal regulation to how these classifications are handle as stated on the NIH website.

Research: In progress undergraduate thesis on the impact hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) on male C57BL/6 male mice cognition.

Inspirations (for major, research, internship):

My inspiration for choosing my major and concentration was so that I could join an accelerated nursing program after graduating Millersville to pursue my career. I felt that having both a strong biology and chemistry background would help prepare me greatly for a challenging program such as an accelerated BSN. Additionally, the help and support of my family and friends has kept me stable on this path, for I could take on all these challenges alone, no one could.

Takeaway (from courses/internship/research):

I feel that while many will find courses that challenge them here, the desire to move further towards your dreams and goals can always outweigh these challenges in the end.

Advice (for incoming freshman in your shoes):

My advice for incoming freshman would be that while all the work might seem overwhelming at first,it’s best to focus on what’s in front of you one semester at a time if at all possible. Your time here will go by fast,so it is important to have a thorough work ethic to make the most of it. Also, it’s important to focus on mental health while you are here as well. Especially with being a biology major, it is easy to feel overwhelmed with the amount of work you get, and while your work is important, taking time for yourself is equally important if not more.

Aspirations (upon graduation):

My career aspirations once I graduate are to become a nurse practitioner. Specifically, I wish to specialize in pediatric endocrinology as it has been my life goal from a young age. I myself am a type 1 diabetic and it is something that has motivated and driven me towards this goal so that I can help others like myself and who suffer from other endocrine conditions as well.

Scholarships awarded while attending Millersville University:

MUSE (Mentored Undergraduate Summer Experience)

BSI (Biology Student Investigator)

Neimeyer –Hodgson Award (Millersville University)

SGRCA (Student Grants for Research and Creative Activity)