Veronika's Thoughts on Texas State

Why Texas State

Because I wanted to come to a school where academics are highly valued.

Why Microbiology

As a kid I went back and forth between wanting to be a doctor and a vet. But microbiology is awesome. It has so many applications — from intense and detailed research to making beer and wine!

Career Goals

I will work for one year, hopefully in the field. I have applied to a few research facilities in Seattle, Wash., that work with bacterial communication and I’m waiting to hear from them. After that I plan to apply to PhD programs in and out of the United States. My dream job is to work for the World Health Organization in Switzerland as a primary investigator in a worldwide prevention campaign that promotes the use of plants and natural remedies.

My Research

Most of my research comes from Dr. Dhiraj Vattem's molecular and cellular nutrition lab. For the past two years, I’ve screened medicinal plants for potential antimicrobial activity. I have also attended two major international microbiology conferences to present my research. So far I have co-authored papers for four publications and won two awards for research presentations. I have high hopes of continuing my work to find ways to prevent bacterial infections.

Favorite Professor

Dr. Bob McLean is my favorite professor. He opened the doors of his lab to me and has helped me achieve my goals. I worked with him in a collaboration with Dr. Vattem's lab to study the effects of foods on bacterial growth and biofilm formation.

My Most Valuable Learning Experience at Texas State

The relationships students can develop with professors at Texas State is unique. It is very important to have not only guidance but support from professors, and I feel I have received that from my Texas State professors.

My Organizations

Texas State Student Society for Microbiology
Tribeta National Honor Society

Honors and Awards

George H. Meyer Award in Microbiology
Houston-Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Scholar

Best Campus Eatery

Commons Dining Hall. The waffles are the best!

Where I Go to Relax

Like most students, I love to float the river. I don't do it as much anymore, but I have great memories of floating the river with friends.

What I Tell Future Texas State Students

There is a river that goes through the campus!