The Nebraska Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA) Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program has welcomed 27 undergraduate students from across Nebraska as they embark on their summer research experience at Creighton University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and UNMC.
Below, Mackenzie Strehle, a nutrition science major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, talks about her INBRE experience.
Who is Mackenzie Strehle?
I grew up in a small suburb of western Minneapolis with my parents and younger sister. When I’m not studying or working in the lab, I enjoy doing yoga and spending time outside. After graduating, I’m hoping to spend the summer backpacking in Europe before I start graduate school.
Has science always been a part of your life?
I actually didn’t fall in love with science until my senior year of high school when I took AP Biology. After that, studying science was the only thing I wanted to do.
How is it important to you?
Among the many reasons why science is important to me, foremost I am passionate about science because of the way it fosters a lifestyle of critical thinking and perpetual learning.
Why did you choose to participate in the INBRE program?
I wanted to participate in the INBRE program not only to advance my understanding of biomedicine, but also to gain a better understanding of what it means to pursue a career in scientific research.
What do you hope to gain from the program?
I see the INBRE program as an ideal opportunity to build on my current research experience, as well as support me in becoming a more knowledgeable student within the realm of biomedicine.