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Rachel Schweiger in Columbia University

Rachel Schweiger: From Neuroscience Passion to Professional Excellence at Columbia University

By: Nerea Lancho Poza

Thursday, November 14, 2024

Rachel with her final project poster. — Rachel presenting at Columbia University Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics RNA Day poster session

Rachel Schweiger has been fascinated by neuroscience from a very young age. Her interest began in 8th grade when she participated in her school's science fair, creating a project that examined the relationship between memory and brain functions, which earned her first place. This early success sparked her passion for biology, prompting her to pursue a college education in neuroscience and biology, with a minor in chemistry.

From Fishers, Indiana, Rachel decided to attend IU Indianapolis due to its proximity to her hometown and its strong emphasis on research. At IU Indianapolis, she has not only been able to further develop her love and enthusiasm for neuroscience, but she has also taken the opportunity to immerse herself in several campus activities. She founded the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology to help students prepare for graduate school, while also serving on the executive board of the Domestic Abuse Prevention Student Organization (DAPSO).

Nonetheless, Rachel’s commitment to neuroscience extended beyond the classroom. She currently works as a recitation leader for CHEM-C105 and as a teaching assistant at the Neuroscience Resource Center. Off-campus, she is gaining hands-on experience at the Indiana Biosciences Research Institute, where she interned in June 2023, focusing on diabetes pathogenesis and beta cell dysfunction. Her bright and excellent performance led her to obtain a part-time position as a Research Associate in October 2023.

Columbia University's Amgen Scholars cohort at the Amgen Scholars Symposium at UCLA

In addition to that, one of Rachel’s lifelong goals has been to attend a graduate school with substantial research funding. To further this ambition and to build up her resume with valuable experiences, she participated in the prestigious Amgen Scholars Program at Columbia University, where she conducted research in a neuroendocrinology lab.

Her work involved studying RNA granules and their implications in Alzheimer's disease. Despite initial nervousness, Rachel successfully presented her final research findings, both in manuscript form and through oral presentations, to her peers and mentors.

However, getting to this point was not easy. Schweiger had to do intense and meticulous research and internship analysis to find a program that aligned with her career goals and desires.

“I applied only to the schools where I thought the faculty that was available to be mentors for the program was a good fit for what I was looking for. I looked for programs that were either very focused on neuroscience, highlighting cellular, molecular neuroscience, or cell death,” Rachel explained.

She applied to 10 different programs, including five within the Amgen Program Umbrella, such as Berkeley, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins. The process was fraught with uncertainty and hard work, but it all paid off when she heard back on her acceptance into the Amgen Program at the Ivy League Columbia University.

When I got accepted into Columbia, I was so excited I immediately called my mom. It was the first acceptance I got, so I was a little weary of whether I would get into any other programs for which I had previously applied, but I did not want to take my chances for granted because it was such a great opportunity. You never know if you're going to get another offer. So, I quickly jumped on it.
Rachel Schweiger

Her transition from Indianapolis to New York City for the Amgen Program was a significant cultural shift. Rachel adapted to the vibrant city life of the Big Apple, exploring local shops, restaurants, and parks with her roommates and friends. This experience broadened her horizons and reinforced her passion for research and neuroscience.

Rachel and her friends at the American Museum of National History

Rachel's journey reflects her strong dedication and resilience. She experienced substantial personal and professional growth, from moving across the country alone for the first time to having the opportunity to work with highly esteemed professionals at one of the most prestigious universities across the country and the world.

Rachel and her peers at the Amgen Symposium

After her experience, Rachel advises future applicants to seek feedback on personal statements, emphasizing the importance of improving them with constructive criticism. She encourages applicants to take the time to craft a compelling narrative that highlights their passion, goals, and experiences and to be open to revisions. Additionally, Rachel stresses the value of persistence, urging them not to be discouraged by setbacks, as perseverance is key to success in the application process.

"You have to be very strong-willed. You cannot fear failure because then, why would you want to apply to it in the first place? External opportunities can sometimes be more valuable because you get a completely different perspective on an institution and a unique new experience, all while being in a completely different place. It opens your horizons and is something worth taking a risk for," Schweiger said.

Rachel Schweiger’s journey underscores the importance of resilience, reflection, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact through research and medicine.

Rachel Schweiger: From Neuroscience Passion to Professional Excellence at Columbia University

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