Nicole Gordon is a junior at IU Indianapolis whose story has been defined by perseverance, leadership, and academic excellence. As a first-generation student majoring in biology and neuroscience on a pre-med track, Nicole is driven by her passion for helping others and her strong determination to make a difference in the field of medicine.
Nicole’s enduring love for science is what led her to major in biology, later deciding to add neuroscience to her academic pursuits. However, it was not until her freshman year that Nicole’s path to medicine was truly solidified. Drawn to genetics and its potential to transform lives, she joined Dr. Randall Roper’s lab, where she contributes to groundbreaking research on the effects of Down Syndrome on mice. For Nicole, the lab is not just a place to learn - it is a place to grow.
“Being an undergraduate student in the lab has been an incredible experience,” she shares. “It has given me invaluable mentorship and reinforced my desire to combine research and patient care.”
As a first-generation student, Nicole credits much of her success to the support provided by scholarships like the Herbert Presidential and Arnold Mabel Scholars programs. These opportunities have given her financial stability, enabling her to focus on academics and service without the added burden of financial stress. Her commitment to science and academic excellence has also earned her recognition as a Beckman Scholar, a prestigious opportunity that has taken her to national symposiums. At these events, she has engaged with other Beckman Scholars and learned about their research endeavors. Nicole is set to present her own research findings at a symposium in California in August 2025.
Nonetheless, Nicole’s leadership extends far beyond the lab. As a member of Phi Sigma National Board of Directors, she is working to strengthen regional connections among Indiana chapters. Furthermore, as a former president and current student advisor for ALDPES, she’s mentoring the next generation of leaders.
“I decided to become a student advisor because I want to give back to the organization that has given me so much,” Nicole said. “I have received scholarships, been recognized as a member of distinction, and now serve on the National Board of Directors. I hope to provide others with the same opportunities I had.”
Nicole’s passion for service is perhaps best exemplified through her work with VIDA, an IU Indianapolis student-run free clinic. Coordinating volunteers and ensuring patients receive care, Nicole has played a vital role in providing healthcare to underserved communities in Indianapolis.
Some of Nicole’s most meaningful experiences stem from her time at Riley Children’s Hospital’s Child Life Zone, where she creates safe, joyful spaces for children and families navigating the stress of hospital life.
“The Child Life Zone is an area at Riley’s where kids can come to just be kids again,” she explains. “They can play video games, enjoy the outdoor area, do crafts, and play with different toys. My role is to maintain that safe environment and allow kids and their families to momentarily escape the stress of being in a hospital.”
These moments, both heartwarming and challenging, have shaped Nicole’s dream of becoming a pediatrician.
This project has shown me the value of simply being there for someone. Every child who visits the Child Life Zone is either a patient or has a loved one in the hospital for a serious reason. The reward of seeing a child smile or a parent relax, even for a little while, makes it all worth it.
-Nicole Gordon
With her sights set on medical school and a career in pediatrics, Nicole is well on her way to making a lasting impact. For her, the Honors College has been more than just an academic distinction—it has been a cornerstone of her college experience. From her first days on campus, the Honors College provided her with a sense of community, belonging, and the resources to succeed.
“The Honors College connected me with people who became my closest friends and gave me the support I needed to thrive. It made campus feel like home.”
Nicole Gordon’s story is one of determination, growth, and impact. Through her academic achievements, leadership roles, and unwavering commitment to serving others, she is paving the way for a meaningful career in medicine. Her advice to others is rooted in her own experience: “Trust the process - it will all work out.”
The Honors College has been a guiding force in her journey, providing her with community, resources, and support to achieve her goals. Nicole exemplifies the values of compassion, innovation, and resilience that define the next generation of healthcare leaders.