Brianna Glees

Brianna Glees is a biological sciences major from Bolingbrook, IL

Hometown: Bolingbrook, IL

High School: Plainfield East High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
Early in high school, I discovered my passion for a career as a doctor. Thanks to the unwavering support of my family, I’m excited to pursue a major in biology at NIU, with the goal of attending medical school soon after graduation.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am a biological sciences major with a minor in chemistry. I have a strong interest in both of these fields; however, learning biology is the most satisfying for me and my way of thinking.

Have you conducted your own research through Research Rookies, Honors capstones or theses or any other faculty-guided research opportunity?
Yes

Tell us about the research you are doing and why it interests you.
I have been doing research with Dr. Scott Grayburn since 2022, both volunteer and for credit. I have conducted over 150 hours of research on a unique bacteria strain and performed qPCR experiments, plating, algae transfers and media optimization. Although the lab work is time consuming, I enjoy the possibility of the way my research can impact the world. For instance, currently I am working on a project that explores new antibiotic synthesis and a correlation between Alzheimer’s and a strain of bacteria.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
I have been able to present two biology-related posters at the Conference on Undergraduate Research and Engagement (CURE) through my research, which helped me to gain more professional skills in a new environment. Additionally, the lab work I do is typically tedious and has a lot of data, so working in the lab has advanced my organizational and detail-orientated skills.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
As a pre-med student, experience doing research, especially related to the medical field, is well appreciated. I am hoping my hours of research will allow me to stand out as a candidate.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
Dr. Grayburn, my research mentor, has been a very important figure for me. I appreciate him so much for allowing me into his lab even as a volunteer. He has taught me many things and is always a joy to be around due to his passion for research.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
Keep coming back! Even if it is only for a few hours a week, continue to be involved in research. It will not only teach you about your career but also yourself.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The amount of friendly people at NIU. NIU has such a welcoming environment.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have connected with other students by joining organizations. It is a great way to make friends and find people who are like-minded.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
Yes! I am secretary of the Pre-Professional Association and vice president of Circle K International. Both of these have given me the chance to advance my leadership skills and make some amazing connections. A great number of my delightful memories of NIU will be from being in these two organizations and the people I have worked alongside.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Huskie Academic Success Center (HASC)! They have supported me academically and career-wise. In fact, I just got a new tutoring position there.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The amount of involvement it takes to be a good honors student has helped me with academic, career and personal goals. In general, doing honors engaged experiences has helped me break out of my shell and meet/network with new people. Keeping up with a high GPA as an honors student will help me look great for medical school.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I love the people! Honors students and faculty are positive, passionate and influential. I strive to do and be better because I am an honors student. It also feels great to know there are other students just like me who can relate to me and my experiences in the program.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Lori Lawson has been my favorite professor; she taught ENGL 350. She was the most excited teacher I have met at NIU. She loves her students as if they are her own children. It was always very easy to talk with her, and she has given me some of the best advice I have received from people outside my family.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class has helped me stay accountable for my grades. It has also enhanced my understanding of important material that I will need to pass my MCAT exam.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
The East Lagoon is my favorite because it is always peaceful, and the view is amazing. The wildlife is also interesting to see.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
NIU is an amazing choice because it is inexpensive relative to other schools, and it has a welcoming environment.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it provides the knowledge and skills I need to pursue my career goals and make a meaningful impact in my field. It offers opportunities for personal growth, critical thinking and the development of a diverse perspective. College teaches you a lot about how life works.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I always need a planner/calendar for school and consistent sleep schedules and routines. This keeps me organized and healthy mentally, spiritually and physically.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
Huskie Hub and my school email account are services that keep me well informed.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I enjoy Sunday rest and pampering myself once a week by doing my nails, a face mask or hair mask. I constantly try to read my Bible and pray, and I also enjoy listening to music.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I recently started a new job as a tutor at the HASC, and I’m excited to see where it takes me. For hobbies, I enjoy crocheting, pottery and working out.