Lauren's Research
Describe the research you are involved in.
I currently do research at LSU Veterinary School of Medicine in the comparative biomedical sciences department. The research I am working on focuses on adenovirus-based cancer therapy. My focus is on targeted oncolytic virotherapy, and my role is to produce, grow and amplify my virus and test against cancer cells.
What sparked your interest in this research?
I am interested in doing sickle cell research in the future. Although this is cancer research, what sparked my interest was the gene therapy aspect. Since sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder, I wanted to learn more about gene therapy and utilizing and manipulating DNA. I think the research that I am doing is very relevant and important. Cancer is a disease that almost everyone has been impacted by, directly or indirectly. It is important to continue efforts to improve therapies and treatments so that one day cancer will not affect anyone.
Why is it important for students to have these kinds of hands-on experiences?
It is important for students to have these hands-on experiences because they truly make you think critically. Experiences such as research compel you to apply what was learned in the classroom in the lab. Something that I have learned through this experience is patience. Everything may not work out the first time or even the second time, but when you get the results you want, it makes it so much more satisfying.
Name: Lauren Jackson
Hometown: Gonzales, La.
Major: Biology/Pre-Medicine
Graduation Year: 2019
Why did you choose to attend LSU?
LSU has always felt like home. LSU is the place my parents met and where my older brother chose to go to school. Every time I thought about another school, my heart kept going back to LSU. LSU is also one of the best schools in the state for pre-med. The research opportunities and staff here are phenomenal! Lastly, LSU has one of the best Barnes and Nobles in the business. As a book lover, that was a huge plus!
Define “diversity.”
Diversity is like a good pot of gumbo. The sausage, crabs, roux, chicken and okra are comparable to gender, race, sexual orientation, disabilities, backgrounds and age. Each ingredient makes the gumbo great, just like diverse people make the world great.
What makes you a unique candidate for the President’s Millennial Scholars’ Program?
I care so much about everything. I want what we do in President’s Millennial Scholars’ to be great. As the first cohort of this program, we should be the best, the brightest and the most caring. We can pave a way for a bright future, not only for ourselves, but also for the future cohorts of this program.
What impact does the financial support provided through this scholarship have for you?
The financial impact of this scholarship is so great for me and my family. My brother is nine months older than me and also attends LSU. Having to put two children through college is hard on my parents. This scholarship helps to go toward my fee bill and my books.
How do you hope the President’s Millennial Scholars’ Program will enhance your college experience?
The President’s Millennial Scholars’ program will enhance my college career by bringing me and my cohort together. The program has given me a chance to truly connect with like-minded and passionate people who will help me to grow and grow with me. The program will give me something that I can’t gain in the classroom: experience. Hopefully, we will continue to go on excursions ranging from a vast majority of fields, cultures and lessons.
What are your academic and professional goals?
My academic goals are to excel in the classes that I am enrolled in. I want to really take in the knowledge and carry it with me throughout life. After college I plan to attend medical school and become a physician. I am most interested in sickle cell research and care, so I am leaning towards hematology. Professionally, I would also like to write young adult fiction or science fiction and add more diversity to literature.
What has been your favorite experience as an LSU student?
My favorite experience as an LSU student so far is my first LSU gymnastics meet. The gym was decked out in purple and gold, and people of all ages were waving yellow pom-poms. The euphoria of over 10,000 people spurred on each athlete to perform exceptionally well for the win against Kentucky!
Meet more President's Millennial Scholars.
Visit the LSU Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.