New Chemistry Building: Catalyzes Future Students’ Opportunities

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The 2021 school year brought what Old Dominion University students would consider to be a “new normal”, with the previous semesters being completely virtual. However, walking back onto campus this semester brought a new building for the chemistry department, which brings an array of new opportunities for the students to come. This new building was part of a $213 million investment in STEM-H buildings on campus. A building like this was deemed necessary by then President Broderick for ODU’s student body, based on the percentage of students pursuing a degree that would lead them into a medical or technical research profession.

One student in particular took advantage of the partnership between ODU and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) to admit qualified students into medical school. This allows for a bypass of the traditional application process. Regan Allen, a senior at ODU, sat down to talk about her experiences and the excitement she has for the new addition to the Chemistry department. Allen is a Hampton Roads native who graduated from Nansemond River High School in Suffolk, Virginia. Throughout her four years at ODU, she has exemplified extraordinary use of her time, even with such a rigorous course load each semester. Some examples include her volunteer leadership as a Young Life leader and working at Wagner Macula & Retina Center.

What is your major and graduation year?

I am a biochemistry major with a minor in psychology, and I am graduating in 2022!

What is the program that you participated in at ODU for your early acceptance to EVMS?

I applied to the joint program that partners Old Dominion University with Eastern Virginia Medical School. A student accepted into the ODU/EVMS Joint Program in Medicine will be guaranteed a position at Eastern Virginia Medical School upon graduation from Old Dominion University. This program is designed for qualified students to circumvent the traditional application process to medical school. How has ODU and the chemistry department prepared you for your early acceptance to EVMS?

The ODU chemistry department has provided me with research opportunities and resources to succeed academically. I was fortunate enough to develop professional relationships with some of the staff within the department. Due to the kind and welcoming staff of the chemistry department, I was always accepted into research labs, even as a freshman. I believe that these connections aided in my acceptance into the early admission program. The courses I’ve taken have also prepared me well for the next step in my education. The chemistry courses that I have taken have been challenging in a way that has encouraged me to grow as a student.

What is your favorite memory or most memorable experience as a biochemistry student?

My most memorable experience as a biochemistry student was presenting my poster presentation at the Perry Honors College Undergraduate Research Symposium. This memory is so significant to me because it was the catalyst of my love for science. I knew that I wanted to be a biochemistry student, but getting the opportunity to present my research solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine. Outside of my academic experiences, my favorite memories as an ODU student are the athletic events.

Why did you decide to study biochemistry specifically and not just chemistry?

I chose to study biochemistry because of the practical applications for my career choice. While chemistry is equally [as] interesting, I want to go to medical school which requires a solid foundation in biology. I chose biochemistry to better prepare myself for graduate school.

How has the chemistry department provided an environment for your individual learning and research?