Brenda Omburo

Brenda Omburo is a biological sciences graduate student from Nairobi, Kenya

Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya

High School: Limuru Girls' School

Year: Anticipated 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?
I always wanted to be a scientist growing up. I'm privileged to have pursued a science major both as an undergraduate student and as a graduate student.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I studied biochemistry for my undergraduate degree, and I'm currently pursuing an M.S. in biology/biological sciences. I decided on my major because of my interest in understanding human health and how to develop better drugs and vaccines against disease-causing organisms.

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'm current conducting fungal genetics research in the Ana Calvo Lab. This research interests me because of the fact that we still have a limited understanding of disease-causing fungi and how they are able to exert their damaging properties when they infect plants, humans and animals.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
I've been able to meet people with different experiences and perspectives related to my field of study, which has allowed me to grow as a scientist.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
This research experience will help me achieve my career objectives of becoming a biomedical research scientist.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
Dr. Ana Calvo. She has challenged me to explore and express my ideas as related to my research and to be more open to different lines of thinking about diverse scientific concepts.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
I would encourage them to express their ideas and not be afraid to approach our professors for research opportunities.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Meeting students from diverse backgrounds has been very fulfilling as it has enabled me to learn about other countries and cultures.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Through platforms such as Network of Nations and the International Student and Scholar Services, I've been able to network and form new friendships with other students.

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?
I'm a member of the Biological Graduate Student Association (BGSA). I've been able to receive mentorship from senior students, which has been helpful in both my studies and research, and in settling in as an international student.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Department of Biological Sciences and International Students and Scholar Services (ISSS). My department ensured that I was able to smoothly travel from my country of origin and settle in as a student at NIU. The ISSS office has been invaluable in providing advice on the intricacies of living in the U.S. as an international student and in feeling welcomed as part of the NIU community.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Dr. Garry Sunter, who taught my epigenetics class. I enjoyed the class because it helped me grow as an independent thinker. Everyone was free to share their ideas and perspectives, and the structure of the class encouraged discussion among students.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
The Holmes Student Center. It is a nice place to meet my friends and socialize. I especially like the fireplace.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Identify your interests and reach out to professors in colleges whose research aligns with your career goals. I would advise them to consider NIU as it is a very welcoming research community.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education helps me understand who I am as a person and who I'd like to be in the future.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I use the MyNIU calendar resource to plan my time and schedule activities.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I use the weekly scroll of things to know email to stay informed about events and services on campus.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I'm an avid nature photographer. I like to take walks in the park (when the Dekalb weather allows) and spend some time in nature taking pictures.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I love traveling, photography, dancing, karaoke and research, of course! I also enjoy spending time with friends.