Cabrini University has partnered with Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) to offer African American and Hispanic male students majoring in Biology, Chemistry, or Psychology the opportunity to participate in a unique eight-week summer research program.
The program pairs Cabrini students with a PCOM faculty member to assist with research and make a presentation about their work at the end of the program.
To be selected for this opportunity, students are nominated by a Cabrini faculty member and complete an essay to explain how the experience will benefit them. A committee reviews each application and chooses the finalists. Out of the dozen nominated, Alexander Sanchez ('20), Mark Martin ('20), and Zachary Martinez ('20) are the first Cabrini students selected to participate in the research program.
“I’m most excited to be able to work in the labs at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine," said Sanchez. “PCOM is my top choice for graduate school and getting my feet wet at their facilities is an amazing opportunity.”
The three students visited PCOM's campus last month for an initial meeting with some of the faculty members who will be leading their research projects.”
Additionally, each student will receive a stipend at the end of their experience.
“I am proud to take on the role of representing Cabrini University during my research opportunity at PCOM this summer,” said Martin, who believes the research will be helpful as he looks to further his studies in graduate school
The initiative was spearheaded by several Cabrini faculty and staff members including Assistant Professor of Biology Joyce Belcher, PhD, Department Chair and Associate Professor of Psychology Melissa Terlecki, PhD, and Dean of Natural Sciences and Allied Health Richard Thompson, PhD. José Rodriguez, Director of Student Diversity Initiatives, also helped establish the program to ensure that Cabrini students of all backgrounds have the opportunity to excel.
For more information on the program, contact Rodriguez at jose.rodriguez@cabrini.edu.