AUBURN, Ala. – A handful of Auburn equestrian members are using the summer to gain valuable experiences not only in their area of study, but also for life whether they stay in the United States or travel abroad!
Rising junior Caroline Fredenburg has spent the summer as an intern with the Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center. The biomedical sciences major has been working hard on cancer treatment research and took time to fill us in on her summer!
Q: Where are you spending your summer and what is your role?
A: “I am working this summer as an intern with the Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center (IUSCCC) in Indianapolis, Indiana. This summer internship is part of the Education Pathways for Cancer Research, funded through the National Institute of Health (NIH). I work in a research laboratory that studies multiple myeloma. We are currently working on a project that studies how these cancer cells are affected by a select group of anti-cancer compounds, with hopes that these compounds can one day be used as highly effective treatments for patients with multiple myeloma.”
Q: What made you interested in this internship?
A: “I have always been interested in pursuing a career in the medical field, and research is the foundation of medicine as we know it. I admire the work that researchers do, as they are improving the lives of people they will never meet. The IUSCCC summer research program has given me the incredible opportunity to not only get hands on experience with basic research, but also to work alongside distinguished scientists in the field of oncology.”
Q: How has Auburn helped you prepare for this internship?
A: “I have learned many techniques in my science laboratories, like microbiology and organic chemistry, that prepared me for my research lab experience.”
Q: What is your major and what made you interested in this area of study?
A: “My major is biomedical science (pre-medicine). I have always loved learning about the human body. The classes in this curriculum will set me up for success as a medical professional.”
Q: What are your plans after you graduate from Auburn?
A: “After I graduate from Auburn, I hope to attend medical school to become a physician.”
Q: How have you been able to balance school and prepare yourself for life at Auburn, while also being a successful student-athlete?
A: “My schedule is very busy, and it took some getting used to. I am lucky to have had some amazing coaches, advisors, professors, and tutors that have made my workload easier to manage.”