Rose Kohinke (’14) spent her summer in the Chemistry lab exploring recent advancements in sustainable chemistry. In particular, her project explored
“the reactivity of silica sulfuric acid, which is a novel development that can help build complex and important molecules in a faster and cleaner manner.”
Regarding full-time research through Summer Scholars:
“I learned more laboratory techniques (and improved old ones) in 3 months of Summer Scholars than I did in 3 years of regular classroom experiences.”
“If it worked the first time, we wouldn’t call it research”
Our research t-shirts include the above quote to remind ourselves that failures and frustrations are all part of the process. Rose agrees that
“the hardest part about doing research is realizing that failures can (and will) happen, especially in a chemistry laboratory…search for potential solutions and treat each mistake as a learning experience.
Rose’s faculty mentor for this project was Dr. Skip Brenzovich, an Assistant Professor of Chemistry. Rose advises other students doing research to
“ask your faculty mentor questions! Professors are experts in their fields and want to share their knowledge, as long as you are willing to listen and learn. I don’t know how many times I have approached Dr. Brenzovich with a ‘small’ question regarding my project, and ended up hearing a 30 minute lecture that taught me more than a structured classroom setting could have accomplished.”
Rose found that applying her knowledge from the class directly to her project helped her to better retain and understand it.
Rose is currently applying to pharmacy school.
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Talk more with Rose and other student researchers at:
Family Weekend Showcase of Experiential Learning on Friday, September 27, 2013 6-8pm in Fintel Library
Roanoke College students from all disciplines will showcase their research, creative works and experiences from intensive learning travel courses.
The event kicks off with a social at 6 p.m. and a keynote speaker at 6:15 p.m. Students will stand at their posters at 6:45 p.m. Attendees should roam throughout Fintel Library and stop to talk to students.
Drop by the registration table for more information on experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, service-learning, study abroad, creative and artistic works and research.
Students, present at the showcase by submitting a short form.
Find more information about Roanoke College Research:
https://roanoke.edu/research
https://facebook.com/RCResearch
https://twitter.com/RCResearch
https://RCResearch.org
research@roanoke.edu