Biochemistry

Madison Vrba

(She/her)

k23mv01@kzoo.edu
Hometown: Mattawan, MI                                                           
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Psychology
Study Abroad: San Jose, Costa Rica
Best Adjective to Describe You: Driven


In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The people, both students and faculty, create a supportive and genuinely uplifting environment.

What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
Get involved in anything outside of class. Of course, go to office hours and SI, but also do your homework in Dow, attend Dow events, join clubs, or simply spend time in the building. The more you show up, the more you’ll naturally build relationships. It’s surprisingly easy to make meaningful connections at K, and being present in your department helps you feel supported, appreciated, and part of the community.

What is something you know now that you wish you could tell your first-year self?
I would tell my first-year self that you don’t need to do everything to be successful. Find the things that genuinely excite you and invest your energy in those. When you focus on what matters most to you, you grow more, enjoy your experience more, and avoid burning yourself out trying to be everywhere at once.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
People are your greatest resource. I am someone who hesitates to ask for help, but I’ve learned that most people want to help. Reaching out for guidance, support, or even just another perspective can make all the difference, and it builds stronger relationships along the way.

What has been your favorite class at K? 
My favorite class so far has been Physiological Psychology with Dr. Batsell. I loved how it blended biology and psychology, and the content was incredibly engaging. It deepened my interest in the intersection between the brain, behavior, and physiology.

How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth?
Beyond my Biochemistry major, I’m completing a psychology minor, which has complemented my interests well. I also took Biophysics, which ended up being one of my favorite courses. Outside the sciences, I’ve taken ANSO, Ethics, and I plan to take band next year. The open curriculum has allowed me to explore widely while still building a cohesive academic path.

What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
I’ve been largely involved in a variety of experiences, including playing on the softball team, serving as a Chemistry TA, participating in Sisters in Science and Family Science Night, and studying abroad. Each of these have helped me build community, strengthen my communication skills, and grow both academically and personally.

What is your SIP?
My SIP focuses on maternal RSV vaccination rates over the past three years, the factors influencing those rates, and the development of educational interventions for both patients and providers to help increase uptake. I will be conducting this project in the OB department at Johns Hopkins.

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I hope to become an OB/GYN and potentially pursue a fellowship in maternal–fetal medicine. After K, I plan to take a growth year working in a clinical setting before starting medical school in fall 2028.

What is a random fun fact about you?
I have a very specific ranking of every cookie cake you can buy in town.