Reno Reporter

A member of the first cohort of the University of Nevada, Reno’s Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) program said that it’s an honor to be recognized.

According to a news bulletin provided by the school, junior Lauren Carriere overcame obstacles first-generation students face as she joined the MARC program on a path to study immunology and microbiology. But MARC strives to increase diversity in the biomedical sciences and supports students transitioning into research-driven programs. She was able to succeed and now is positioned to help others.

“Applying to college was a big challenge,” Carriere said in the release. “Figuring out applications, figuring out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), things like that.”

After getting a boost from MARC, Carriere hopes to inform other students regarding studies in the biomedical sciences. It’s a huge step for Carriere as she admits that learning how to become a college student was a major milestone.  

“At first it was a lot to learn how to be a college student, be on my own and be at a university with 20,000 people. I absolutely love it now, though. Finding my way overall was a bit tough in the beginning," Carriere said.

Ultimately, it was her love of science that led her to seek a degree in the field.

“I was a pre-nursing major, and part of the pre-nursing coursework is microbiology," she said. "I’ve always had an underlying passion for science, but taking microbiology really lit a fire in me and I immediately knew I wanted to pursue it. I fell in love with learning and the subjects I am studying, and I don’t want it to end at the undergraduate level.’’