Graduate Ready

Marjori Russo ’23 said her research experience with Associate Professor of Biology Paul Hamilton ’09 was “the greatest experience” she had at Illinois College and helped prepare her for a job offer working in cell biology research at Washington University in St. Louis.

“I got to actually perform the scientific protocols I had studied for so long. I learned more about myself, broadened my scientific knowledge and gained the hands-on experience needed for research positions and graduate school.”

In addition to her research, Marjori had valuable experiences presenting at the Illinois State Academy of Science Convention, where her poster received third place in her division, and as a teacher’s assistant for anatomy and physiology courses. She received the Willis DeRyke Prize in Biology and was inducted into Beta Beta Beta biology honors society.

Marjori was also a student-athlete and leader on campus, involved in Student Senate and National Society of Leadership and Success. She was a member of the swimming and diving team and the student-athlete honor society, Chi Alpha Sigma. She worked on campus in the athletic trainer’s office, as an RA and as a shift leader for the COVID-19 testing center.

Marjori chose IC because of the friendly environment she noticed as soon as she stepped on campus and found the people to be the most memorable part of her IC experience — from staff pointing her in the right direction on campus and in life, to friendships that will last a lifetime, to mentors she can rely on.

“I had a great experience with the professors in my department. They pushed me academically, but more importantly they were always there to listen and give advice when I needed help navigating college. Whenever I doubted myself, faculty like Professor Hamilton and Assistant Professor of Biology Gwendowlyn Knapp always believed in me and pushed me to be the best student possible.”