F&M Sophomore Discovers Chemistry Career Path

Kate Meyer, currently a sophomore chemistry major at Franklin & Marshall College, intends to pursue a graduate degree in environmental chemistry after graduation. Her devotion to the field stems in part from her incredible experiences at F&M, including a 10-week summer research internship in the chemistry department with Dr. Ken Hess.

“I never thought I would do research as a first year undergrad, let alone in chemistry,” says Kate. “It introduced me to so many brilliant people in the department and really solidified my love for the subject.”

In addition to her coursework, Kate works as one of nine chemistry tutors on campus, helping other students understand the fundamentals of the field. She was inspired to take on this role after receiving tutoring herself.

“Chemistry was actually the only C I ever got in high school, but when I came to F&M I had incredible mentors in the department including my professors and tutors,” says Kate. “It really pushed me to get more involved in the chemistry department.”

Kate is deeply involved in campus life in other ways as well. She is a house advisor for freshmen in her dorm, serves on the executive board and as a recruitment advisor for a gender inclusive honors fraternity, is a member of the Environmental Action Alliance, plays the trumpet in the F&M orchestra and philharmonic, and is a member of Mu Upsilon Sigma, a music honors society.