Dawn

What year are you in school?

Junior

What Fellowship did you get and what does it involve?

The award received was the Glenn T. Seaborg Science Award for 2012. The award is given annually to an outstanding student from one of six U.S. colleges with Scandinavian heritage that maintain an active connection with modern Scandinavia through language study, student exchange programs, and cultural events. The student must also be a science or mathematics major.

The award will allow for travel to Sweden in December and attendance at the Stockholm International Youth Science Seminar as well as several events during Nobel Prize Wek including the Nobel Reception, the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony, the Nobel Banquet, and the Nobel Night Cap.

What was the most rewarding part of the Fellowship applying process?

I am so grateful for what I know will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I am incredibly humbled for being granted such a unique opportunity. I am so excited to return to Sweden after studying there for a semester as a sophomore and the thought of watching a scientist receive the Nobel Prize is nothing short of phenomenal.

How has Gustavus prepared you for this experience?

I have been so fortunate to have many great mentors at Gustavus. Dr. Kimberly Murphy was my primary research mentor during her time at Gustavus when I was an underclassman. Her guidance during my first year helped me to develop the foundation necessary to conduct research while also helping me develop a lifelong passion for scientific research. Sanjive Qazi has been another critical advisor and mentor throughout my time here at Gustavus. Alumnus Amy Leval ’97, who is currently completing her Ph.D. at Karolinska Institute, has also helped me tremendously.

Dawn Comstock Receives Glenn T. Seaborg Award Gustavus Article